Starting odometer reading was 6908. Today we drove 297.9 miles. About 100 of that was from Durango to Mesa Verde and back.
We drove US 70-50-550 into Durango, CO and 160 to Mesa Verde.
The drive started out pretty flat and then up and down two mountains.
Mesa Verde is one of the Pueblo Indian cliff dwelling sites. It is a National Park and an International Heritage Site. We watched a movie about the history of the site. The first inhabitants lived on top of the mesas and then moved down under the cliff overhangs. South facing they were warm in the winter and cooled by the overhangs in the summer. We were able to walk down to Spruce House dwelling any look at the building methods. Of course the 700' climb back needed a rest. Then a drive around to see some of the other dwelling sites. Very interesting, hopefully you'll see a picture or two.