DH and I are planning a trip to Mesa Verde in early fall. We're wondering if any senior citizen have found it too strenuous. What exactly are the physical demands of the park for two healthy people?

We were there last June. At that time we were 59 yrs. old. The altitude did cause us to feel winded and we chose not to do any of the ladder climbing. We do NOT consider ourselves to be very physically active so you may not have the same problems.

Unless you are fit, I strongly suggest avoiding Balcony House. It involves ladders, a little crawling, and some steps.

My older first cousin, about 74 at the time, gave us a fright when she slipped on a nearly vertical ladder.

I was 69 at the time and had no trouble with it, but she did.

The ladders, however, give even younger people a problem, so gage your ability to tolerate heights as well because those ladders are just that - ladders.

By all means go. Mesa Verde is one of my favorite places. Reserve a room on the edge of the mesa. Huge view!. I have seen elderly people have a good time there. I am talking 75-80 years old. If you are in decent physical shape ypu will be able to do everything. I f you have some weakness there is still a lot to see and enjoy.

If you don't want to climb the ladders there are many short walks and overlooks where you can get a good view of things.. Even doing this it would be worth the trip.. If you are 'seniors' in that you just became eligible to join the AARP and are still healthy/reasonable shape you should have little or no problem participating in any of the activities..

As others have said you can choose to do the easier/less demanding parts. There is still SO much to see and experience. It is a truly amazing thing to see.

Thanks to all - it's been very helpful.

DH and I went afew years back. We were in our late 60's. And we both had problems. we made it down and choose not to climb the ladder also, and then coming up is when I did not think I would make it, but stoped and rested and did make it back up. It is very strenuous. So unless you are very exercing, walking, working out and healthy people I would not recommend it. We drove and saw other ruins that did not require any strenuous walking and climbing. So was glad to went, but do not recommend it for above reasons to our friends. We are now in our 70's. Just to give you a age.