This short and steep path leads to a special cliff dwelling in Mesa Verde National Park that can be viewed as part of a free self-guided tour.
Follow Step House Trail to a unique archaeological site representing remnants of two different ancient structures, from entirely different eras, located in the same spot. Discover a modified basket-maker site containing pit houses and a residential dwelling. Find both at the end of the 1-mile (2-kilometer) Step House Trail.
Be sure to wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty of water for safety and comfort on the 100-foot (30-meter) ascent and descent. The trail is mostly paved. While strenuous at times, it is manageable for most visitors.
Admission is free and visitors are allowed to enter and exit Step House Trail at their will. Learn about the ancient ruins at your own pace and without spending a cent. Some of the most popular sights here are the pit houses, which date from the year 626. They are regarded as the forerunners to the later permanent residences found throughout the park. Look for the clusters of stones that form a set of steps and the accompanying ladder beside them.
While there is no organized tour of the Step House, someone is always on duty during park open hours to answer questions and offer assistance. Ask the on-site park ranger if you have any questions about Step House.
Combine a circuit of Step House Trail with exploration of the rest of the Wetherill Mesa, a part of the park known for having fewer crowds and a slower pace. Tour most of the sites in this section of Mesa Verde National Park in 3 to 4 hours.
Find Step House Trail near the Wetherill Mesa information kiosk. Reach the trail by car via a 12-mile (19-kilometer) drive along Wetherill Mesa Road. Both the trail and the road are open only seasonally, so check opening days and times before you depart. Pay a fee to enter the national park. Admission to the trail itself is free.
