Long House

On Wetherill Mesa, Ranger-Guided Tour Only, a fee is required.

[ Long House Tour ]

Long House is the second largest cliff dwelling at Mesa Verde!

Long House and Wetherill Mesa are only open between Memorial Day weekend and Labor Day (the last Sunday in May through the first Monday in September). Long House is located on Wetherill Mesa in the western portion of Mesa Verde National Park. Long House is reached by driving out a 12 mile winding road that leaves the main park road just beyond the Far View Visitor Center parking lot. The steep, winding road follows an historic fire trail for 12 miles. Vehicle length is restricted to 25 feet or less.

Along the route are a series of turnouts and overlooks with information about natural features and forest fires. At the end of the road you will find public restrooms, a snack bar, and an orientation area. There is a shaded area with a ranger on duty near the tram loading area.

A quiet ride on the tram through the recently burned pinyon-juniper forest will take you to the head of the Long House Trail, Badger House Community, Kodak House Overlook, Long House Overlook, or the Nordenskiold Site #16 trail. The tram is only a transportation system used once you arrive at the parking area for Long House -- the tram is free and available on a first come, first serve basis.

Long House was excavated between 1959 and 1961 as part of the Wetherill Mesa Archeological Project. This project, funded by the National Park Service and the National Geographic Society, excavated 15 sites on Wetherill Mesa between 1958 and 1963.