Pros & cons
PROS
- Ticket-free viewpoint on the Long House Loop
- Quieter, more relaxed Wetherill Mesa setting
CONS
- No water or restrooms at the overlook itself
- Seasonal access and a slow, winding 12-mile drive with length limits
Overview
Long House Overlook is the easy way to see the park’s second‑largest cliff dwelling without joining a tour. It’s a self-guided viewpoint along the 5‑mile Long House Loop on Wetherill Mesa, an area purpose-built for walking and bicycling with a calmer vibe than the busier Chapin Mesa.
Getting There
Reach Wetherill Mesa via a 12‑mile, winding spur road that begins near mile marker 15 by Far View. Allow about 45 minutes one way and note the vehicle length limit of 25 feet. At road’s end you’ll find parking plus services before heading out on the loop. From there, walk or bike segments of the Long House Loop to the signed overlook.
What You’ll See
From the overlook you can peer across the canyon into the Long House alcove and appreciate its scale and setting without stepping inside the site. The loop also connects to other self-guided stops like Badger House Community, Kodak House Overlook, and the Nordenskiöld Site #16 trailheads, so it’s easy to make a half-day of it if you’re feeling curious.
What to Expect
There are no facilities at the overlook itself—no water, no restrooms, and limited shade—so arrive prepared. Heat and elevation can make even short walks feel tougher than they look; carry water and sun protection and take your time.
Pairing With the Tour
If you also want to enter Long House, you’ll need advance tickets for the ranger-guided tour and to buy them before driving out to Wetherill Mesa. The overlook, however, is free to visit and doesn’t require a ticket.
Best Time to Visit
Morning is best for cooler temps, softer light, and an easier walk or bike along the loop. Wetherill Mesa is open seasonally—check current dates before you plan your day. Weekdays typically feel quieter here, and starting early helps you stay ahead of heat and any parking crunch at the end of the road.
Where it is
37.1849, -108.5345Tips for Long House Overlook
- 01Use restrooms and top off water at Wetherill Mesa before starting the loop.
- 02Bring sun protection and plenty of water; shade is limited at the overlook.
- 03Start early to beat heat and make the most of the quieter Wetherill Mesa vibe.
- 04Remember the 25‑foot vehicle length limit on the Wetherill Mesa road.
Amenities
Near Long House Overlook
All places →All trails →
0.2 mi awayLong HouseUp-close ranger tour into the park’s second-largest cliff dwellingTrailhead · Parking
0.3 mi awayBadger House Community TrailQuiet mesa-top loop through 600 years of Pueblo historyEasy · 2.3 mi · 1 hr
0.3 mi awayBadger House CommunityMesa-top ruins that trace 600 years in one easy loopTrailhead · Restroom
0.4 mi awayNordenskiöld Site #16 OverlookQuiet overlook of a distant, camouflaged cliff dwellingScenic Viewpoint
0.7 mi awayKodak House OverlookWetherill Mesa viewpoint of a secluded alcove cliff dwellingScenic Viewpoint
0.8 mi awayLong House Loop TrailPaved mesa-top loop to overlooks and ancestral sites, bike-friendly.Moderate · 5 mi · 2.5 hr
0.8 mi awayLong House LoopPaved mesa top loop to overlooks and sites; add the Long House tourModerate · 5 mi · 2.5 hr
0.8 mi awayStep House TrailShort, self-guided path to a rare cliff dwelling with deep historyModerate · 1 mi · 45 min
