On to Colorado: Mesa Verde National Park

Mesa Verde National Park. In the Four Corners area Mesa Verde National Park tops the list of must-sees. Spectacular doesn't even begin to describe its 13th-century cliff dwellings; Balcony House, Cliff Palace, and Spruce House are the biggies. Visitors to these Ancestral Puebloan ruins are also in for a rare scenic treat—and the hairpin turns that go with it. Weather can shut this place down. On-site accommodations (800/449–2288 www.visitmesaverde.com)include Far View Lodge (late April to late October), near the visitor center, and Morefield Campground (early May to early October), 4 mi inside the park. Off U.S. 160, between Cortez and Mancos in CO, about 95 mi from Aztec (via U.S. 550) or from Farmington, Aztec, New Mexico, 81330. 970/529–4465; www.nps.gov/meve. Late May–early Sept. $15 per vehicle (good for 7 days), early Sept.–late May $10 per vehicle; ranger-guided tours (seasonal) $3–$15. Visitor center daily 8–5; facilities, museum, and tours vary seasonally—call ahead.