Embarking on a 7-hour journey from Colorado Springs to Mesa Verde National Park is an experience that will stay with you forever. The drive itself is nothing short of mesmerizing, as the landscape transitions from urban areas to the stunningly beautiful deep valleys and enormous mesas that have captured the hearts of travelers for generations.
Upon arrival, the sense of wonder only intensifies. Our tour guide, an expert in the region’s history and geography, led us on a hike to the Square Tower House. As we navigated the winding trails, we were captivated by the stories of the Anasazi people who once thrived in this region. Their mysterious disappearance and the many unanswered questions about their lives have intrigued archaeologists and historians alike. Our guide shared the fascinating creation myths of the Anasazi, including stories about the “star people” who came from the sky and taught them how to live off the land.
The opportunity to visit other massive structures and even go inside some of them was truly awe-inspiring. These ancient dwellings are a testament to the incredible engineering and architectural skills of the Anasazi people. As we explored the ruins, it was hard not to feel a connection to the past and to wonder what life was like for those who called this remarkable place home.
The highlight of our trip was the long 5-hour hike to see the ancient petroglyphs. However, the scorching July weather caught us off guard. We mistakenly thought the hike would be 2.5 hours, not realizing that was just one way. The heat was nearly unbearable, and we came close to fainting. Despite the struggle, reaching the petroglyphs was worth it. Standing in front of these ancient works of art, some possibly thousands of years old, was an incredible, humbling experience.
In summary, the journey from Colorado Springs to Mesa Verde National Park is an adventure that we would highly recommend to anyone. The natural beauty of the deep valleys and enormous mesas, the insight into the mysterious Anasazi people, and the awe-inspiring ancient petroglyphs make this trip truly unforgettable. The uniqueness of the four corners region should not be missed, and we encourage you to embark on this journey of a lifetime.
