Mesa Verde National Park is known for its priceless archaeological heritage, ancient cliff dwellings, and stunning landscapes.
One of the most beautiful places to visit in the park is the Park Point Overlook.
Located at an elevation of 8,572 feet, this is the highest point in the park.
The easy hike to the scenic spot offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and mesas.
Here is an ultimate guide to visiting Park Point Overlook, a must-see destination in Mesa Verde National Park.
Also Read: 17 Best Things to do in Mesa Verde National Park
Why is Park Point Overlook famous?
Park Point is the highest point in Mesa Verde at 8572 feet!
Besides that, Park Point Overlook is famous in the park for its breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
This spot provides a perfect view of the mesas, valleys, and distant mountain ranges.
The overlook also features a variety of native plants, including pinyon pine trees that are hundreds of years old.
The historic fire tower at the top of the point is still functional today and visitors love the chance to see this structure.
Where is Park Point Overlook?
Park Point Overlook is located about 10 miles and 25 minutes from the entrance of Mesa Verde National Park or the Mesa Verde Visitor Center.
It is about 15 minutes from Morefield Campground.
The Park Point Overlook is accessible via a winding detour from the Mesa Top Ruins Road.
Along the way, you’ll pass by several pullouts and parking areas that provide different perspectives on the park’s landscape.
At the base of the overlook, you will find a parking lot and restrooms as well as the trailhead to the top of the overlook.
Picnic tables are also available here.
The Mesa Verde Park Point Overlook is about 4 miles before the Far View area.
Park Point Overlook Trail Description
Park Point Overlook Trail is a short 0.4 mile roundtrip paved trail that takes about 10 mins to complete.
It features easy moderate terrain with an elevation gain of almost 40 feet.
The trail begins with a relatively level section before ascending to the top of the overlook.
Near the top, it divides into two paved paths: one will take you to Park Point North Overlook while the other will take you to Fire Lookout and South Overlook.
Be sure to visit both the overlooks for stunning views of the entire park and surrounding landscapes.
From the top, you can take in the beauty of the Four Corners region, including the La Plata Mountains and Sleeping Ute Mountain.
The jaw-dropping vistas extend for miles.
Families with small kids can also easily do this short trail on the paved path, just be sure to bring along water and some snacks to enjoy at the top.
In fact, it is one of the best hikes in Mesa Verde National Park for kids.
Things to do at Park Point
The Park Point Overlook is one of the most scenic and memorable destinations in Mesa Verde National Park.
Here are the things to do at the top of the trail.
See the historic Park Point Fire Lookout
The historic Fire Lookout, which stands at the highest point, was constructed in 1939 by the CCC.
It was recently restored in 2009 to its original state, you can read details here.
It has played an important role in fire detection and management in the Four Corners area since its construction.
It is still staffed in the summer months, which is the critical fire season.
You can read interesting information about the fires that have affected the park at the lookout.
Enjoy amazing views of the San Juan mountains from the North Overlook
The North Overlook is one of the most popular spots at Park Point.
Here, you can enjoy sprawling views of the San Juan mountain range as well as the entire Four Corners region to the east.
You can see across Montezuma Valley well into Utah.
You will also find a lot of wildflowers and butterflies at the overlook.
This is also an excellent place for birding and you can spot eagles.
See as far as New Mexico from the South Overlook
At the South Overlook, you can take in sweeping views of Mesa Verde National Park and its unique landscape.
But that’s not all – with clear conditions, you can even see as far as the Chuska Mountains in New Mexico and SW Arizona!
You can also capture perfect photos of the La Plata Mountains.
The La Plata Mountain range stretches across southwestern Colorado and northern New Mexico.
Admire the views as they change through the day
One of the most fascinating aspects of the Park Point Overlook is the way the light changes throughout the day.
As the sun rises or sets, the golden hues of the cliffs and canyons shift and dance with every passing minute.
The morning mist, the afternoon shadows, and the evening glow create a visual symphony that is nothing short of awe-inspiring.
If you’re lucky, you may even witness a breathtaking sunset that paints the sky with shades of pink, purple, and orange.
Learn about the Park Point area
Apart from the natural beauty of the Park Point Overlook, there are also several interpretive signs and educational displays that explain the geology, ecology, and history of the area.
You can learn about the different rock formations, the wildlife that inhabits the mesa, and the ancient cultures that lived in Mesa Verde thousands of years ago.
There are also telescopes and binoculars available, which allows you to zoom in on distant landmarks and wildlife.
Tips for Visiting Park Point Overlook
Due to its high elevation and potentially cold temperatures, be sure to bring appropriate clothing when visiting Park Point, Mesa Verde.
Also, it is best to finish this short hike early in the day or later in the evening during summer months as the mid-day heat can be too intense.
The road to Park Point is not maintained in winter, so it might not be accessible when snow accumulates in the park.
Finally, be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks for the easy trail.
Visiting Park Point Overlook in Mesa Verde National Park is a rewarding experience that will stay with you for a lifetime.