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Petroglyph Loop Trail

Begins from the Spruce Tree House trail. The trail follows below the edge of the plateau to the south, then makes a short climb to the rim of the mesa and returns via the rim. You will have good views of Spruce and Navajo Canyons. This is the only trail in the park open to visitors where you may view petroglyphs. The trail ends near the museum. The gate to access this trail is open only during visitor hours to Spruce Tree House. Please contact a ranger for times the gate is open.



 The Basics

Location: Mesa Verde National Park - Chapin Mesa
Setting: Mountainous
Difficulty: Difficult
Length: 2.8 mile loop
Time to Allow: 1.5 to 2 hours
Season: Spring, Summer, Fall
Visitor Use:


 Directions to Trailhead

Mesa Verde National Park entrance is 9 miles east of Cortez on US Hwy 160. Chapin Mesa is 25 miles inside the park.






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