Alcove House

In order to preserve Alcove House for this and future generations, the park is now limiting access to no more than 15 people at a time. The site is eroding at a fast pace due to wind and human foot traffic. Limiting access will help address this issue. Alcove House is a fragile resource that is highly sacred to many Puebloan people and generations of visitors who have come to climb the ladders and make lifelong memories. If measures are not taken, this site will erode away and be lost to time.

Half way through the Main Loop Trail (Pueblo Loop Trail), a choice must be made; turn back toward the visitor center or continue another half mile each way (1 mile round trip) to Alcove House. Formerly known as Ceremonial Cave, this alcove is located 140 feet above the floor of Frijoles Canyon. Once home to approximately 25 Ancestral Pueblo people, the elevated site is now reached by 4 wooden ladders and a number of stone stairs. In Alcove House, there is a reconstructed kiva and the viga holes and niches of former homes. Imagine climbing these ladders, carrying whatever supplies were needed, to this lofty home.

climbing alcove house ladder — Alcove House ladder
Photo by Sally King

CLOSURES
The ladders, the stone stairs, and even the walkways to reach this Ancestral Pueblo site can be very icy and dangerous. In winters with abundant snowfall the ladders can be closed for many weeks. This climb is reopened as soon as it can be done safely. A sign at the base of the stairs will indicate if Alcove House is closed. Check at the visitor center for details