Date Hiked: May 2009

Distance: .5 mi (RT)
Elevation Gain: 100ft
Managing Agency: National Park Service
Fee: Yes

Directions:  

The entrance to Mesa Verde is located off of Hwy 160, 36 miles west of Durango and 10 east of Cortez.  There is one main park road and the Spruce Treehouse Trailhead is located at the end of the road near the Museum and Balcony House.

Hike Description:

Spruce Treehouse is one of the most popular spots in Mesa Verde, and for good reason, visiting in the spring, summer, and fall allow visitors to get up close to the dwellings as a self-guided tour, no ranger tour needed.  The only caveat is that you can't actually go into the dwellings the way you can during guided tours of Balcony House, Cliff Palace, and Long House. The hike to Spruce Treehouse is short, scenic, and a must do when visiting Mesa Verde National Park.

The paved trail starts at the Museum and winds down through a series of switchbacks to the base of the dwelling.  You can walk along and weave through, the impressive cliff dwelling at your own pace.  Rangers are typically on hand to answer all your annoying questions...  Along the way, you can link up with the Petroglyph Point and Spruce Canyon Trails if you want to explore further.