Sun Point View: A Panorama of Puebloan History
Witness stunning panoramic views of ancient Puebloan cliff dwellings from this easily accessible overlook in Mesa Verde National Park.
Sun Point View offers visitors an easily accessible and stunning vista of several Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings nestled within Cliff Canyon in Mesa Verde National Park. This roadside stop provides a unique opportunity to see multiple ancient villages from a single vantage point.
A brief summary to Sun Point View
- State Hwy 10, Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado, 81330, US
- Visit website
Local tips
- Bring binoculars or a telephoto lens for a closer look at the cliff dwellings across the canyon.
- Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photography.
- Allow at least 45 minutes to drive from the park entrance to the Chapin Mesa area, where Sun Point View is located.
Getting There
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Driving
Sun Point View is located along the Mesa Top Loop Road. From the Mesa Verde Visitor and Research Center near the park entrance, follow the main park road for approximately 20 miles to the Chapin Mesa area. Turn onto Mesa Top Loop Road and follow the signs to Sun Point View. Parking is available at the trailhead. Remember that the roads in Mesa Verde are steep and winding, so allow plenty of time for travel. The entrance fee to Mesa Verde National Park is $30 per vehicle, valid for 7 days.
Discover more about Sun Point View
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Mesa Verde Administrative District
2.7 km
Discover the rich cultural heritage and stunning cliff dwellings of the Mesa Verde Administrative District, a must-see historical landmark in Colorado.
Coyote Village
8.7 km
Discover the rich history of the Ancestral Puebloans at Coyote Village, an archaeological gem in Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado.
Megalithic House
9.2 km
Explore the Megalithic House in Mesa Verde National Park, a historical landmark that reveals the architectural brilliance of ancient civilizations amidst stunning natural beauty.
The Moore The Merrier
19.7 km
Experience exceptional event planning at The Moore The Merrier, where every celebration is crafted to perfection in beautiful Colorado.
Yucca House National Monument
21.1 km
Explore the ancient Puebloan ruins at Yucca House National Monument, a serene escape steeped in history and natural beauty in Cortez, Colorado.
Welcome to Colorado Sign
31.3 km
Discover the gateway to adventure at Colorado's iconic Welcome Sign, a must-visit historical landmark for every traveler.
Escalante Pueblo
35.6 km
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Discover Durango
44.1 km
Experience the breathtaking outdoor adventures in Durango, Colorado, with expert hiking guides and top-notch rental services for a memorable journey.
The Farmington F
51.0 km
Experience the breathtaking views and rich history at The Farmington F, a landmark symbolizing the pride of Farmington, New Mexico.
Silver River Adobe Inn
51.5 km
Discover the charm of Silver River Adobe Inn in Farmington, NM, a cozy bed and breakfast with authentic Southwestern hospitality.
Farmington New Mexico Temple
51.6 km
Discover the serene beauty and spiritual significance of the Farmington New Mexico Temple, a must-visit for travelers seeking peace and reflection.
Unmissable attractions to see
Sun Temple
0.3 km
Explore the mysteries of the Sun Temple, an Ancestral Puebloan ceremonial site in Mesa Verde National Park, offering stunning views and archaeological intrigue.
Cliff Palace
0.5 km
Explore the ancient Cliff Palace, the largest cliff dwelling in North America, and step back in time to experience Ancestral Puebloan life in Mesa Verde.
Mesa Top Sites
0.8 km
Discover 700 years of Ancestral Puebloan history at Mesa Verde's Mesa Top Sites, showcasing evolving architecture and ancient traditions.
Balcony House
0.9 km
Explore Balcony House in Mesa Verde: A thrilling adventure into Ancestral Puebloan history and architecture.
Soda Canyon Overlook South
1.1 km
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Hemenway House Overlook
1.3 km
Witness the ancient Hemenway House from this stunning Mesa Verde National Park overlook, a tribute to Ancestral Puebloan ingenuity.
Square Tower House
1.5 km
Explore the remarkable Square Tower House in Mesa Verde National Park, a historic site showcasing the ingenuity of the Ancestral Puebloans amidst breathtaking scenery.
Navajo Canyon View
1.7 km
Experience breathtaking vistas of Navajo Canyon and ancient cliff dwellings at this must-see overlook in Mesa Verde National Park.
Spruce Tree House
2.6 km
Discover the ancient architecture of Spruce Tree House in Mesa Verde National Park, a testament to the ingenuity of the Ancestral Puebloans amidst breathtaking scenery.
Mesa Verde Park Headquarters
2.7 km
Discover the heart of Mesa Verde National Park, where Ancestral Puebloan history comes to life.
Petroglyph Point Trail
2.7 km
Explore ancient rock art and stunning canyon views on the Petroglyph Point Trail in Mesa Verde National Park. A journey through time!
Chapin Mesa Archeological Museum
2.8 km
Discover the ancient world of the Ancestral Pueblo people at Mesa Verde's Chapin Mesa Archeological Museum.
Long House
6.0 km
Uncover the rich history and stunning architecture of the Long House, an incredible cliff dwelling in Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado.
Wetherill Mesa Information
6.7 km
Experience the wonders of Mesa Verde National Park at the Wetherill Mesa Information Center, your essential guide to exploring this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Step House
6.7 km
Discover the unique blend of ancient cultures at Step House, Mesa Verde National Park's fascinating self-guided cliff dwelling.
Essential places to dine
Spruce Tree Terrace Café
2.9 km
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D N M Grillen Native
45.4 km
Experience authentic New Mexican cuisine at D N M Grillen Native, where local flavors meet warm hospitality in Shiprock.
Chat & Chew
45.7 km
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That's A Burger
46.9 km
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Bamboo House Restaurant
47.1 km
Experience authentic Chinese cuisine at Bamboo House Restaurant in Shiprock - where every dish tells a story of flavor.
Nataaní Nez
48.2 km
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Grill On the Hill
51.1 km
Experience delectable grilled dishes amidst breathtaking views at Grill On the Hill in Farmington - your ultimate culinary retreat.
No Worries Sports Bar & Grill
51.9 km
Discover delicious grilled dishes and vibrant nightlife at No Worries Sports Bar & Grill in Farmington - your go-to destination for great food and fun.
Los Hermanitos
52.2 km
Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at Los Hermanitos in Farmington—where vibrant flavors meet warm hospitality.
Olive Garden Italian Restaurant
52.6 km
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Riverside Pizza Restaurant
52.7 km
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Arches Restaurant
52.7 km
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Chili's Grill & Bar
52.7 km
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Outback Steakhouse
52.7 km
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George and John world famous burgers fries and more food trailer
52.8 km
Experience the taste of America at George and John's world famous burgers fries in Farmington - where every bite tells a story.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Main Parking Area
2.9 km
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Far View Terrace Café / Gift Shop / Mesa Mocha
10.7 km
Experience the perfect blend of American cuisine and breathtaking views at Far View Terrace Café in Mesa Verde National Park.
Sinclair Gas Station
10.8 km
Experience convenience and comfort at Sinclair Gas Station, your essential stop in the heart of Mesa Verde National Park.
Knife Edge Cafe at Morefield Village
16.0 km
Experience the perfect blend of local flavors and breathtaking views at Knife Edge Cafe in Mesa Verde National Park.
Camp Store
16.0 km
Explore the Camp Store in Mancos, Colorado, your go-to destination for unique gifts, local crafts, and essential camping supplies amidst stunning landscapes.
Thunderbird Trading Company
18.3 km
Explore authentic Native American crafts and gifts at Thunderbird Trading Company in Cortez, Colorado, a cultural gem for discerning travelers.
Entrance Station Kiosk
19.6 km
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Mesa Verde Museum Association
20.2 km
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Antique Corral
20.4 km
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Cliffrose Garden Center & Gifts
21.8 km
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Mud Creek Hogan Trading Post
22.4 km
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Countyroad9
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Buffalo Bob's Co-op
22.6 km
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LaDawn's
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Say Yes Bridal & Boutique
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Roadside Fry Bread Stand
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Far View Lounge
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Metate Room
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Kuchu's Restaurant
19.2 km
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The Meltdown
22.0 km
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The Wigglin’ Pig
22.1 km
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J Fargo's Family Dining & Micro Brewery
22.4 km
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Fiesta Mexicana Restaurant Cortez
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Blondies Trophy Room
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Main Street Brewery & Restaurant
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Loungin' Lizard
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ZU Gallery
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WildEdge Brewing Collective
23.1 km
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Angel's End Zone Sports Bar
23.5 km
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Cortez Elks Lodge #1789
24.3 km
Discover the heart of Cortez at Cortez Elks Lodge #1789, where community spirit meets delicious food and memorable events.
