Cliff Palace, Mesa Verde National Park

Our second tour of the day was to Cliff Palace. Gus and Patrick took this one off to enjoy naptime in the camper. Maddie, Gordie and Sarah went down into the cliffs again to see Mesa Verde's premier location and most well known spot. The guided tour was very informative and gave us incredible views. We learned all about Kiva's, the round "living rooms" where they would cook and hang out to stay warm/cool depending on the season. The average life expectancy was between 35-50 years old, primarily due to a high infant mortality rate. The alcove where their dwellings are located protected them from the weather. Also, they were skilled basket weavers, potters and even painted the insides of their houses with red, yellow and white paint made from clay. How these people survived all of these years on the cliff is incredible.

Maddie, Gordie and Gus will be back here tonight for the Twilight Tour!Read more