Mesa Verde National Park is the first and only National Park established to preserve the works of people. The culture represented at Mesa Verde reflects more than 700 years of history. From approximately A.D. 600 through 1300 people lived and flourished in communities throughout the area, eventually building elaborate stone villages in the sheltered alcoves of the canyon walls.

Listed on the United Nations' World Heritage Site list of precious natural and cultural areas, Mesa Verde is a stunning compilation of more than 3,900 documented archaeological sites. The park's most famous features are the numerous, tiered Anasazi cliff dwellings tucked beneath the mesa tops. The park offers extensive interpretive displays on ancient Puebloan cultures and ranger-led hikes. Self guided exploration of stabilized cliff dwellings is also allowed.