Explore the Ancient Wonders of Balcony House
Experience the architectural marvels and cultural heritage of Balcony House in Mesa Verde National Park, a must-visit historical landmark in Colorado.
Discover Balcony House, a remarkable cliff dwelling in Mesa Verde National Park, where ancient Puebloan history comes to life through its intricate architecture and breathtaking views. Immerse yourself in this UNESCO World Heritage site that showcases the ingenuity of its builders and the rich cultural heritage of the Ancestral Puebloans.
A brief summary to Balcony House
- Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado, 81330, US
- +1970-529-4465
- Visit website
Local tips
- Book your tour in advance, as spots can fill up quickly during peak tourist seasons.
- Wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty of water, as the hike to Balcony House involves climbing and can be strenuous.
- Consider visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon for cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
- Don’t forget your camera! The views from Balcony House are breathtaking and perfect for capturing unforgettable moments.
Getting There
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Car
If you are traveling by car, head towards Mesa Verde National Park. Depending on your starting location within Northwest Colorado, you can use the nearest major highway. For example, if you are in Durango, take US-160 W for about 30 miles, then merge onto CO-491 N towards Cortez. Follow the signs for Mesa Verde National Park. Once you enter the park, continue for approximately 20 minutes on the main park road until you reach the Balcony House trailhead. Be aware that there is an entrance fee to the park: $20 per vehicle, valid for 7 days. Make sure to have cash or a credit card ready for payment.
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Public Transportation
Public transportation options are limited in this region. However, you can take a bus from Durango to Cortez with the local transit service. Once you arrive in Cortez, you may need to use a rideshare service or taxi to get to the entrance of Mesa Verde National Park. It's advisable to check the bus schedule in advance, as services may not be frequent. Upon reaching the park, you will still need to pay the entrance fee of $20 per vehicle, which you can pay online or at the entrance.
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Guided Tours
Consider booking a guided tour that includes transportation from major cities like Durango or Cortez directly to Balcony House. Many local tour companies provide packages that include park entrance fees and guided tours of the historical landmarks, including Balcony House. This option can vary in price, so check with local operators for availability and rates.
Discover more about Balcony House
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Mesa Verde Administrative District
3.3 km
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Coyote Village
9.1 km
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Megalithic House
9.6 km
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The Moore The Merrier
18.9 km
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Yucca House National Monument
22.0 km
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Welcome to Colorado Sign
30.5 km
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Escalante Pueblo
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Discover Durango
43.2 km
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DurangoLiveCam
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The Farmington F
50.5 km
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Silver River Adobe Inn
51.0 km
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Farmington New Mexico Temple
51.1 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Soda Canyon Overlook South
0.5 km
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Hemenway House Overlook
0.6 km
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Sun Point View
0.9 km
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Cliff Palace
1.0 km
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Sun Temple
1.0 km
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Mesa Top Sites
1.7 km
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Square Tower House
2.4 km
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Navajo Canyon View
2.6 km
Experience breathtaking vistas of Navajo Canyon and ancient cliff dwellings at this must-see overlook in Mesa Verde National Park.
Spruce Tree House
3.2 km
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Mesa Verde Park Headquarters
3.2 km
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Petroglyph Point Trail
3.3 km
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Chapin Mesa Archeological Museum
3.3 km
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Long House
6.9 km
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Wetherill Mesa Information
7.5 km
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Step House
7.5 km
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Essential places to dine
Spruce Tree Terrace Café
3.5 km
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D N M Grillen Native
45.7 km
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Chat & Chew
46.0 km
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That's A Burger
47.2 km
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Bamboo House Restaurant
47.4 km
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Nataaní Nez
48.5 km
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Grill On the Hill
50.6 km
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No Worries Sports Bar & Grill
51.4 km
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Los Hermanitos
51.8 km
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Olive Garden Italian Restaurant
52.1 km
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Chili's Grill & Bar
52.2 km
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Outback Steakhouse
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Burger Theory
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Riverside Pizza Restaurant
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Arches Restaurant
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Main Parking Area
3.4 km
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Far View Terrace Café / Gift Shop / Mesa Mocha
11.0 km
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Sinclair Gas Station
11.1 km
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Knife Edge Cafe at Morefield Village
15.8 km
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Camp Store
15.8 km
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Thunderbird Trading Company
19.1 km
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Entrance Station Kiosk
19.4 km
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Mesa Verde Museum Association
20.0 km
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Antique Corral
21.0 km
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Mud Creek Hogan Trading Post
22.0 km
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Countyroad9
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Cliffrose Garden Center & Gifts
22.1 km
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Buffalo Bob's Co-op
23.0 km
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LaDawn's
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Anna's Mini Treasure
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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
20.1 km
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The Meltdown
22.4 km
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The Wigglin’ Pig
22.5 km
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Fiesta Mexicana Restaurant Cortez
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J Fargo's Family Dining & Micro Brewery
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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
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Angel's End Zone Sports Bar
24.0 km
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Cortez Elks Lodge #1789
24.6 km
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
The MOD
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Sons club
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Sun Ray Bar & Grill
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