Yucca House National Monument

Despite being one of Colorado's biggest archaeological sites, Yucca House remains virtually untouched. The 800-year-old ruins offer a glimpse of the Ancestral Puebloan society. Since they've never been excavated, you can traverse the pueblos in their raw, unspoiled glory.

The humble 34-acre monument is surrounded by private farms and ranches. No wonder it remains one of Colorado's best-kept secrets. Today, the rock clusters, walls, and foundations don't look like much. But the ruins were once complexes that held more than 600 rooms.

There are no facilities here, so stock up on snacks, water, and gasoline in Cortez before heading out. This place is pretty rustic—don't expect any information placards. Instead, print out the Yucca House Visitor Guide from the National Parks website beforehand.

The monument is open year-round. Still, you might want to steer clear at the height of summer (unless temps in the mid-90s F are your thing). Camping at the park itself is a no-go, and unfortunately for Fido, pets aren't allowed. While there are no hiking trails, a few walking paths do lead through the ruins. You might even see pronghorn, snakes or foxes during your walk. It can get weedy, so wearing long pants is a smart move.

Yucca House may not have all the bells and whistles of nearby Mesa Verde National Park. But you can't beat this national monument when it comes to viewing unspoiled ruins in their natural beauty.