There is no visitor center at Yucca House National Monument. The site is open 24 hours a day, year-round, but it’s best to avoid early or late visits due to adjacent private residences.
There is no entrance fee to visit Yucca House National Monument.
From Cortez, take Hwy 160 West to Hwy 491 South, immersing yourself in the ancestral landscapes of the Montezuma Valley.
Parking is in a private ranch yard, no designated lot. Limited space, no RVs or overnight parking, no fees. Be respectful of private property.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Partial
Yucca House National Monument, situated in the heart of Montezuma Valley in southwestern Colorado, is an enchanting and lesser-known treasure that whispers tales of the Ancestral Puebloan people. Located 15 miles south of Cortez and near the majestic Mesa Verde National Park, this monument preserves a large, unexcavated pueblo that dates back to the period between A.D. 1150 and 1300.
The landscape is a tapestry of rugged beauty, with the monument set against the backdrop of the Ute Mountain. The site itself is a cluster of rocky mounds, some rising as high as 20 feet, crafted from local limestone by the ancient inhabitants. The air is alive with the rustle of wind through the dry underbrush and the occasional hiss of a snake hiding among the ruins.
Visitors must be prepared for an adventure, as the monument is accessible only via a private road that crosses private lands. The lack of facilities and signage adds to the sense of discovery, making each visit feel like an archaeological expedition. Ranger-led tours, though sporadic, offer a deeper insight into the lives of the Ancestral Puebloans who once called this place home.
As seasons change, the valley transforms; spring brings a burst of wildflowers, summer heats up with the distant hum of cicadas, and autumn paints the landscape in hues of gold and crimson. Winter, though quieter, offers a serene stillness that envelops the ancient structures.
For those seeking to immerse themselves in the local culture, Cortez, just a few miles away, provides amenities and a glimpse into the region’s rich history. Local outfitters and guides can help plan visits, ensuring respect for both the land and its private owners. This unpolished yet captivating monument is a must-visit for anyone drawn to the mysteries of the past and the untouched beauty of the American West.
- Area (mi²)
- 1
- Annual visitors
- 1 000
- Established year
- 1919
Top 3 Facts about Yucca House National Monument
The site features a prominent mound rising as high as 6 meters, surrounded by smaller mounds, and was built using limestone from the vicinity by the Ancestral Puebloan people from A.D. 1150-1300.
This arid landscape is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna. Desert shrubs like sagebrush and four-winged saltbush thrive alongside cacti and native perennial grasses. Rattlesnakes, bobcats, and mule deer inhabit the area, while a variety of bird species are attracted to the perennial surface water from mineralized springs. The mix of desert shrubs, pinyon-juniper woodlands, and sagebrush supports a rich bird population, making it an ideal spot for binocular-toting enthusiasts.
Perched over 5,800 feet above sea level, this Colorado Plateau site was once submerged by the Western Interior Seaway, now evident in the fossil-rich Juana Lopez Member of the Mancos Shale, where ammonites and bivalves are preserved in calcareous shales and hard calcarenite layers. The area’s unique geology, shaped by ancient marine deposition, offers a glimpse into a vastly different past.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Self-guided Tours
- Scavenger Hunts
- Volunteer & Stewardship
- Youth Conservation.
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Visit during mild spring or fall seasons. No services on site; bring water, snacks, and use restrooms before arrival. Gravel and dirt roads may be impassable in wet weather. Sign the guest book upon entry. Ideal for a memorable afternoon exploration.
Pack Appropriately
Pack layers for extreme temperature fluctuations, sturdy hiking boots, sunscreen, a wide-brim hat, and ample water. Bring a waterproof jacket for late summer rains and a portable charger for emergencies.
Respect Wildlife
When visiting, respect the desert bighorn sheep and other wildlife by keeping a safe distance and not feeding them. Stay on designated trails to protect fragile habitats and ancient springs, especially during hot summer months. Leave no trace to preserve the natural and cultural heritage.
Stay Informed
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Seasons
In spring, from March to May, temperatures range from 60s to 70s, with mild weather and blooming wildflowers. Ideal for hiking and exploring ancient ruins, this season offers a serene and vibrant experience, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
Explore ancient ruins and petroglyphs amidst summer’s dry, arid landscape from June to August, with temperatures in the mid-90s. No specific summer events, but early morning and late afternoon hikes offer respite from the heat. Bring water, sunscreen, and respect for the unexcavated site.
Visit in fall, from September to November, when vibrant reds, yellows, and oranges illuminate the rugged landscape. Enjoy cool mornings and warm afternoons with temperatures ranging from the mid-30s to low 80s Fahrenheit. Ideal for hiking and exploring ancient ruins, this season offers a serene and picturesque experience.
Experience winter’s serene beauty from December to February, with temperatures as low as 20°F and up to 15 inches of snow. Trails may be closed, but snow-covered red rock formations and wildlife sightings make for a unique and breathtaking visit. Dress warmly and check trail conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Yucca House National Monument has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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The closest city to Yucca House National Monument is Cortez, Colorado, which is about 11 miles away. Cortez has a population of approximately 8,700 and is the largest town in the area.
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Dogs are not allowed at all in this national monument. Pets and camping are also not permitted. Only service animals are exempt from this rule.
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Parking is free, and it is available for self-parking, as well as for RVs, buses, and trucks. The parking area is accessible and does not require a fee.
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The top things to see include the Upper House, a 20-foot tall structure showcasing Ancestral Puebloan stonework, the West Complex with over 600 rooms and 100 kivas, and the Great Kiva and Lower House featuring well-preserved stonework and an L-shaped layout. These structures are part of a large, unexcavated pueblo that has remained largely untouched since it was protected as a national monument by President Woodrow Wilson in 1919. The site is located in Montezuma Valley, near Cortez, Colorado.