Long House
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On Wetherill Mesa (map), Ranger-Guided Only, Fee Required 
Long House
NPS PHOTO
Long House NPS PHOTO Long House and Wetherill Mesa are only open between Memorial Day weekend and Labor Day. 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 Lodge near mile marker 15. 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. Purchase tickets for the 90-minute tour of Long House at the Mesa Verde Visitor and Research Center before driving to Wetherill Mesa. 
Long House before excavation NPS PHOTO 
Badger House Community site NPS PHOTO 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 the only transportation system used once you arrive at the parking area -- the tram is free and available on a first come, first serve basis. Wetherill Mesa offers an alternate, more relaxed Mesa Verde experience. The area was designed with walking in mind. All the Wetherill Mesa sites, except Long House, can be accessed along self-guided walking trails. We hope that you will make time to travel out to Wetherill and share in this unique experience |
Did You Know?
On a snowy December day in 1888, while ranchers Richard Wetherill and Charlie Mason searched Mesa Verde’s canyons for stray cattle, they unexpectedly came upon Cliff Palace for the first time. The following year, the Wetherill brothers and Mason explored an additional 182 cliff dwellings.