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Mesa Verde celebrates National Parks Centennial in August

  • Ron 

The National Park Service turns 100 next month – on August 25 to be precise. Mesa Verde Country invites visitors to come explore Mesa Verde National Park. Whether it is your first time to the park or you’re recreating your childhood experience for your kids or grandchildren, Mesa Verde has something special in store for your visit.

There are daily tours (guided or self-guided), a beautiful on-site restaurant and a charming lodging property to stay after a full day exploring. Here are three fun facts about Mesa Verde National Park.

  • Only national park dedicated to preserving the villages and objects hand-built by ancient civilizations
  • Encompasses over 80 square miles of historic treasures, ancient relics and trails
  • Near two national scenic byways – San Juan Scenic Byway (known as “America’s Most Beautiful Drive”) and the Trail of the Ancients National Scenic Byway – making getting here half the fun! Explore the

Mesa Verde National Park is hosting two special events to kick-off the centennial celebration.

  • Aug. 19, 7 p.m. Four Corners Lecture Series: “Happy Birthday, National Parks Service. 100 Years of Birth & Growth of America’s Best Idea.” Presented by Larry Gore, this program will take place in the Chapin Mesa Museum auditorium. Learn more. The presentation is free, but park entrance fee is required.
  • Aug. 25, 9 a.m. Curation Tour of the Mesa Verde Visitor & Research Center
    This one-hour tour is free with park admission. Get a behind-the-scenes tour that focuses on the artifacts and archives associated with Mesa Verde’s famous former residents. The tour is limited to 15 people; pre-registration is suggested. Call 970-529-5074 to register.

While staying in the Mesa Verde region, there are plenty unique lodging options. One day just isn’t enough time to explore, so you’ll want to book multiple days! Here are just a few to check out:
UnknownRetro Inn
Visitors will know they’re in for something special the moment they drive onto the lot of this quirky-in-all-the-right-ways motel. A vintage RV greets visitors, along with brightly colored exterior paint.There’s a life-sized Elvis sculpture (perfect for capturing Kodak moments), as well as big outdoor chess board. Each of the rooms is numbered by a retro year, and many have retro-themed décor inside. A filling complimentary continental breakfast is served in the lobby café, which is decorated with checkerboard flooring, bright paint and retro tables.

Far View Lodge at Mesa Verde National Park
Boasting comfort and breathtaking views into four different states, the Far View Lodge is located 15 miles inside Mesa Verde National Park. The traditional Western decor of the lobby and dining room, fantastic views, warm hospitality and superb dining welcomes visitors for an unforgettable vacation. The lodge is comprised of 150 rooms in two room types, Kiva and Kiva Deluxe View. There are 60 newly renovated rooms at the lodge, which was designed to reflect the true essence of Mesa Verde – there are no televisions nor cell phone service in the rooms. The guest rooms and lobby feature free wifi. The lodge is open April 14-Oct. 23.

Grizzly Roadhouse B&B
Located on 30 acres of evergreen studded hills and canyons, this country style B&B and guest cottage provides a place to relax, expand and be at peace. Patios and decks provide a comfortable spot for relaxation, bird watching and savoring the most sensational sunsets in Mesa Verde Country. The B&B’s “bear” necessities include walks along high mesa trails, exploring the bounty of nature, uninterrupted views of the stars, native storytelling and “hibernation” spiritual retreats. Enjoy stories from the owner’s Santa Clara Pueblo background. The breakfast features a continental buffet of teas, coffee, snacks, juices, fruit, yogurt and cereals.

Tags: Denver and Rio Grande Western Railroad, Mesa Verde National Park, Regions of the United States, Western United States
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