Welcome to Mesa Verde Motel! One of the most popular places our guests visit during their stay with us is Mesa Verde National Park. We’ve put together some information about the park, including some background on the former inhabitants of the cliff dwellings. Mesa Verde Motel is conveniently located seven miles from Mesa Verde National Park.
When planning a visit to Mesa Verde National Park, you might find yourself curious about the people who once lived there. Their story is deeply tied to the landscape, especially when it comes to drought, which shaped their way of life.
The Impact of Drought on the Chaco Culture
Drought is a recurring challenge in the desert Southwest, and it played a significant role in the decline of the Chaco culture. For years, people believed the Ancestral Puebloans had disappeared without a trace. However, their descendants still live in the region, carrying on their legacy in new ways.
As the drought worsened, one farming family after another saw their way of life collapse. Many were forced to relocate and migrate to areas with more fertile land and reliable water sources. From 550 to 1300 CE, people in the Four Corners region lived in pit houses and cultivated crops like corn, beans, and squash near streams and mesas.
Why Were Cliff Dwellings Built?
Over time, people began building cliff dwellings, such as those at Keet Seel and Betatakin in Arizona and Mesa Verde in Colorado. Why this shift in housing? According to archaeologists, including David Stuart from the University of New Mexico, these structures may have freed up more land for farming or offered protection from enemies.
Given the harsh conditions and scarce resources, conflicts may have arisen between groups. If one community successfully grew food, others might have attempted to take it by force. The “enemy” wasn’t mysterious in this scenario — it was often the neighboring groups.
Cliff Dwellings as a Defense
Cliff dwellings were a practical response to these threats. Built beneath natural overhangs on the southern sides of canyons, these homes captured warmth from the winter sun while offering shelter from the summer heat. This design also provided security, as sentries and dogs stationed above the dwellings could protect the inhabitants from surprise attacks. Farming continued in the bottomlands and mesa tops, but residents could retreat to the cliffs in times of danger.
Living in the Cliff Dwellings
Life in the cliff dwellings was difficult. Fetching water required a dangerous climb down steep cliffs, and farming involved long treks to the mesa tops. Residents faced these challenges to safeguard their resources from those who might attempt to steal them.
Why Were the Cliff Dwellings Abandoned?
After about a century, the cliff dwellings were no longer sustainable, and the inhabitants moved on. Many relocated approximately 200 miles southeast, a migration that happened gradually. They settled along the San Juan River, Rio Chama, and Rio Grande tributaries, where they had access to better water sources and more fertile land. In these new areas, they built multi-story adobe villages. Today, their descendants live in pueblos such as Taos, Ohkay Owingeh, Laguna, and Sandia, part of the 23 sovereign nations in New Mexico.
Exploring Mesa Verde Today
Mesa Verde National Park is home to over 4,700 archaeological sites, allowing visitors to explore well-preserved ruins. Nearby accommodations include campsites and lodges, ensuring a range of experiences for visitors.
For those who want to stay close to the park, the Mesa Verde Motel in the historic town of Mancos, Colorado, is just seven miles away. This boutique motel provides an excellent base for exploring the area’s attractions.
The National Park Service charges a seven-day entrance fee of $30 per vehicle from May 1 to October 22 and $20 for the rest of the year. Ranger-guided tours of the Cliff Palace are available for $8 per person, and advanced reservations are recommended through recreation.gov.
Adventurous Tours at Mesa Verde
One of the most thrilling ways to experience Mesa Verde is the Balcony House tour, available from late April to mid-October. This ranger-guided tour involves climbing ladders, navigating tight spaces, and hiking steep trails. It’s an immersive look at life in the cliff dwellings, but it may not be suitable for those with heart or respiratory issues — or a fear of heights.
For visitors who prefer a more relaxed experience, the Mesa Top Loop Road offers a scenic drive with views of Cliff Palace, Spruce Tree House, and the Sun Temple.
Other Activities in Mesa Verde National Park
Beyond exploring ancient structures, visitors can enjoy bird watching, plant walks, wildlife observation, and stargazing. The park’s remote location offers some of the darkest skies in the country, making it a prime spot for stargazing.
Before your visit, check the Mesa Verde National Park website for current information and to make reservations. The park offers a unique glimpse into the lives of the Ancestral Puebloans, providing a fascinating journey through history.
As you plan your trip, consider where you’ll stay. Just seven miles from Mesa Verde National Park, our motel, Mesa Verde Motel in Mancos, Colorado, is ideal for relaxing and enjoying the area’s attractions. The motel is located in downtown Mancos and conveniently close to restaurants, bars, and shopping. We’re sure you’ll enjoy your stay with us!