How has no one told me about Hovenweep National Monument before? I found this place completely by accident while road-tripping between Utah and Colorado, and it absolutely blew my mind.
– Somewhere between Four Corners and Mesa Verde
– ZERO crowds
– Ancient stone towers built 800+ years ago
– Stars so clear it’s like you’re inside a space documentary
So what even IS this place?
Imagine walking through total desert silence, and suddenly – BOOM – there’s a stone tower chilling right on the edge of a canyon.
Built by hand around the year 1200. No cement. No machines. Still standing. It’s giving ancient desert fortress vibes and I am HERE for it.Also, if you love moody desert photos and cool ruins, this is pure gold.
What to Do There
1. Hit the Visitor Center First
Tiny but super useful.
– Water
– Bathrooms
– Trail maps
– Cute little gift shop
– Shady picnic tables (LIFESAVER if it’s hot)
If you can, stay for sunset – it’s unreal. And when the sun goes down?
The stars go OFF. Like Milky Way, shooting stars, whole galaxy moment. Your phone will cry trying to capture it.
2. Hit the Trails (No, they’re not hard)
Square Tower Loop – About 2 miles. Super chill. Amazing ruins and canyon views. Perfect for first-timers.
Horseshoe & Hackberry -A little more remote, super quiet. You feel like you’re discovering secret ruins.
Cutthroat Castle – I mean, come on, that name? It’s a bit of a drive but 100% worth it. Feels like an adventure before you even get there.
You can stay overnight
There’s a small campground near the visitor center – first come, first served. It’s simple, but sleeping under that sky? Life-changing.Bring snacks, warm clothes, and just look UP.
This place is insane in the best way.
It’s quiet, ancient, beautiful – and barely anyone knows it exists.
If you’re into wild, off-the-radar, can’t believe this is real kind of places – Hovenweep is calling. And yeah, you’ll probably be the first of your friends who’s even heard of it .
What are some fun facts about Hovenweep?
Hovenweep means “deserted valley” and spans Utah and Colorado. It was once home to Ancestral Puebloans and features mysterious stone towers.
What is there to do at Hovenweep?
You can hike scenic trails, attend ranger programs, stargaze, and take photos of ancient ruins.
What are the structures of the Hovenweep?
Hovenweep has towers, kivas, and stone dwellings built on canyon rims, boulders, and cliff edges.
How old is the Hovenweep?
The structures were built around 1200 to 1300 AD.
What is the elevation of Hovenweep campground?
The campground is at about 5,200 feet (1,585 meters) above sea level.
