America's National Parks preserve more than just nature, water, wilderness, and wildlife, sometimes parks preserve culture too. One such magical place is MESA VERDE NATIONAL PARK in Colorado. Some 1,500 years ago the Anasazi people settled here in sandstone caves. The people were hunters, traders, basket weavers, farmers, and potters. The pottery was known for the distinctive black-and-white geometric patterns painted on it. The Anasazi built impressive cliff dwellings, small cities beneath cliffs. The area is quite arid which may explain why they eventually left the area. Visitors enjoy hiking here today (don't forget to bring a hat, wear good walking shoes, and bring a water bottle.)
The park was established in 1906 and covers some 53,000 acres with winding hill-top roads which have spectacular views. The main dwellings, Cliff Palace can be accessed by climbing down stone stairs, but you have to climb up a fairly steep area to leave the archaeological site and use four ladders to do so traversing some 100 feet in the process. It is estimated that some 120 people lived here. They grew corn (maize) and beans.
Two cowboys stumbled upon the palace in 1888 whilst herding cattle. The Ute Indians also knew about the site.
Golden eagles and peregrine falcons have been spotted in the park, and be sure you always watch your step due to the presence of venomous snakes. There are deer, rabbits, and mountain lions in the park, but these are rarely seen.
Photos: Tanja Nayak
Music: "Letting the Leaves Fall" from Storyblocks