There are 23 kivas, circular underground ceremonial chambers, each of which was used by the men of an individual clan. When visiting ruins, note these features: fire pit, ventilator shaft, deflector, 6 pilasters, and the Sipapu (spiritous entrance to the underworld).
THE TRAIL TO CLIFF PALACE
The trail trip through Cliff Palace ruin requires approximately three-quarters of an hour. Leave your car at the designated parking space. Walk first to the railed rock promontory about 100 feet from the road, from which point a splendid panorama view is obtained; then make the 5-minute descent down the foot trail to the Ruin where you will be met by the ranger-archaeologist.
View of the south section of the CLIFF PALACE from the point where visitors are met by the ranger-archaeologist, who here outlines what is known about the life and culture of the ancient inhabitants.
THE ROUND TOWER is one of the most perfectly built of all the architectural features of Cliff Palace. Individual blocks were curved by chipping with stone axes.
THE TRAIL TO BALCONY HOUSE
Of all Mesa Verde’s cliff dwellings, Balcony House Ruin is the most dramatically situated and offers the most exciting personal exploration experience. National Park Service archaeologist-guides meet visitors at the designated parking space to lead the 1¼-to-1½-hour trip over a half-mile ledge trail, up the famous approach ladder, and through the ruin. Time schedule of trips may be obtained at the Museum.