Step House: A Glimpse into Mesa Verde's Past
Discover the unique blend of ancient cultures at Step House, Mesa Verde National Park's fascinating self-guided cliff dwelling.
Step House offers a unique opportunity to witness two distinct periods of Ancestral Puebloan history in one remarkable cliff dwelling. Explore the remains of early pit houses from the 600s CE alongside a later, more developed pueblo village dating back to the 1200s CE. This self-guided tour provides a fascinating look at the evolution of Ancestral Puebloan architecture and culture.
A brief summary to Step House
- Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado, 81330, US
- +1970-529-4465
- Visit website
Local tips
- Wear sturdy shoes for the steep, 1-mile roundtrip trail to Step House.
- Bring water, especially during the summer months, as the trail can be strenuous.
- Allow at least 45 minutes to an hour to fully explore the site.
- Visit during the morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photography.
- Check the National Park Service website for seasonal closures and updates before your visit.
Getting There
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Driving
To reach Step House, first enter Mesa Verde National Park. From the park entrance, drive 15 miles along the main park road to the Far View Visitor Center. Continue past the visitor center to Wetherill Mesa Road, a 12-mile winding road. Drive to the Wetherill Mesa Kiosk and parking area. From there, the Step House trailhead is a short walk. Note that Wetherill Mesa is typically open from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. Entrance to Mesa Verde National Park costs $30 per vehicle, valid for 7 days.
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Walking
From the Wetherill Mesa Kiosk, the Step House trailhead is located nearby. The trail is a 1-mile loop that descends steeply into the canyon. Follow the paved and gravel path down to the cliff dwelling. Be prepared for a 100-foot descent and ascent on a winding path. Allow approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour for the round trip.
Discover more about Step House
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Mesa Verde Administrative District
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Coyote Village
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Unmissable attractions to see
Wetherill Mesa Information
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Long House
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Petroglyph Point Trail
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Navajo Canyon View
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Square Tower House
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Far View House
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Far View Tower
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Far View Reservoir
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Mesa Top Sites
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Sun Temple
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Cliff Palace
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Essential places to dine
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Los Hermanitos
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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