Great but long ride, photos say more about this than I can. 

This was a ride of surprises Mesa Verde National park being one of them. A huge butte looms out of the desert. As we are passing we thought we would pop in . The park drive takes you up and around the butte giving amazing views of the valley below. The park is preserving an ancient cliff dwelling which even the view from the road is incredible. You can take a Ranger walk to the settlement if you want to see more.

 
 
Booked into a tiny motel which was s risk but turned out great.

Walked back into the tiny town for dinner under the red rocks. Not considered it gets dark instantly in the desert we walk back with the bats.