Puye Cliff Dwellings — Attraction in Four Corners States

The website for Puye (poo-yay) Cliff Dwellings invites visitors to “…be touched by the spirit of a special place between the earth and sky.” While not on the same scale as Machu Picchu, the impact of arriving at this virtually untouched remnant of a civilization last inhabited 3 centuries before European contact was similar. As you catch glimpses of the cliffside caves on the 7-mile drive on NM5 from NM30, the inevitable question arises: “How did people make homes on (what appears to be) a sheer wall of rock?” Even less evident are two secrets you will come to discover: (1) the cliffside openings are only a small part of the original dwellings and (2) there is another equally impressive complex of building remnants on the mesa top. Puye Cliff Dwellings has done a masterful job of making the site accessible for any pocketbook, interest, or physical ability and all tours are led by guides who trace their lineage to those who once inhabited this magical place. The “Roadrunner Trail” ($20) includes access to a recently reconstructed cliff dwelling as well as an optional 30’ ladder climb to a second level. The “Cliff Dwellings Tour” ($25/adults, $21/seniors and children under 14) includes a more in-depth look at 2 levels of cliffside dwellings and petroglyphs of the ancient Santa Clara Pueblo people. Visitors with physical limitations can be driven to the plateau to explore the complex of buildings including a ceremonial kiva on the “Mesa Top” tour ($25/adults, $21/seniors and children under 14).

Joe Chavarria, Operations Manager, was our guide on the “Adventure Tour” which combines the highlights of all 3 tours above into one comprehensive experience; it also represents a good value ($40/adults, $36/seniors and children under 14). About 45 minutes from Santa Fe, a visit here should be on...

Visiting the Puye Cliff Dwellings in New Mexico offers a captivating glimpse into the history and culture of the ancient Puebloan people. Located on the Pajarito Plateau, about 10 miles from Española, this archaeological site holds the remnants of the ancestral homes of the Santa Clara Pueblo, dating back to around 900 A.D. The cliff dwellings are carved into volcanic rock, making them both an architectural and natural marvel.

One of the most striking aspects of the visit is the connection you feel to the land and the people who lived there. Guided tours led by descendants of the Santa Clara Pueblo bring the history to life, offering insights into the daily lives of the ancestral Puebloans, their agriculture, and their spiritual practices. Walking through the cliffside dwellings and standing on the mesa top, where the ruins of larger communal homes and kivas (ceremonial spaces) remain, evokes a deep sense of respect for their ingenuity and way of life.

The surrounding landscape, with sweeping views of the Rio Grande Valley and the Jemez Mountains, adds to the awe-inspiring experience. The Puye Cliff Dwellings are more than just a historical site; they represent a living history that continues to be significant to the Santa Clara people. It’s an enriching experience for anyone interested in Native American history, archaeology, or simply a deeper connection to the region’s natural beauty. For those looking for an immersive cultural experience, Puye offers a respectful and educational window into a fascinating chapter of...

The Puye Cliff Dwellings in New Mexico offer an incredible window into the history and culture of the ancient Pueblo people. Nestled in the beautiful landscapes of the Santa Clara Canyon, this archaeological site allows visitors to explore cliffside dwellings carved into volcanic rock, as well as the remains of a once-thriving community that dates back over 1,000 years. The knowledgeable guides provide fascinating insights into the daily life, architecture, and traditions of the indigenous people who called this place home.

What makes the Puye Cliff Dwellings truly special is the sense of connection to the past you feel while walking through the ruins and standing in the same places where ancient inhabitants once lived. The views from the top of the mesa are breathtaking, offering a panoramic glimpse of the surrounding region, adding to the experience.

The site is well-preserved and offers a variety of ways to explore, from guided tours to self-guided hikes, and is accessible to both history buffs and nature lovers alike. It’s a unique and enriching experience, perfect for anyone interested in Native American history, archaeology, or the natural beauty of New Mexico. Thank you Ernesto and AJ for sharing the history of your people. Highly...