Hovenweep National Monument

Hovenweep National Monument is a very small and very fascinating park. With units in both southeastern Utah and southwestern Colorado, what the monument lacks in size it makes up for in unique history. Hovenweep contains some of the best examples of Ancestral Puebloan masonry towers found anywhere. Most of the towers and dwellings were built between 1200 and 1300 AD, just before the area was mysteriously abandoned. The topography of the monument is generally flat with a few shallow canyons where the ruins are found. Most areas are covered in the common pinyon pine and juniper forest that is common in the region. While this area may not be as naturally beautiful as many areas in the region, the human history and ingenuity on display is truly remarkable. Because of Hovenweep's small size, hiking is generally limited to the short interpretive trails that take visitors to the ruins. Driving access varies from unit to unit. Some, like the Square Tower unit are easy to reach; others, like the Cajon group, require more effort and a better vehicle.

The park has a nice visitor center and a developed campground with restrooms and water. It is also one of the few national park service units left that doesn't charge an entrance fee. 

Because of its proximity to other large and popular national parks like Canyonlands and Mesa Verde, Hovenweep is often overlooked, but a stop in the monument is well worth the time.