Planning a summer trip from The Springs to Mesa Verde National Park in Southwest Colorado? This road trip connects Colorado’s heart to its ancient past. You can explore mountain passes, quiet lakes, and charming small towns on your way to the national park.
On this trip, you’ll learn about the history and culture of the ancient Pueblo people. The park has incredible sites, deep canyons, green mesas, immaculately well-preserved cliff dwellings (not reconstructed like those in Manitou), and cool hikes.
Make the journey from Colorado Springs to Mesa Verde unforgettable with this guide. Find the best routes, scenic detours, and hidden gems that make every mile of the drive worth savoring.
Also Read: Colorado Springs to Estes Park road trip itinerary
Best Route for Colorado Springs to Mesa Verde drive
To get to anywhere from Colorado Springs, first you need to take the interstate :). Go south on I-25 through Pueblo and Alamosa and then make your way to Four Corners region and Mesa Verde National Park. Past Pueblo, continue south on I-25 till Walsenburg. Then take Hwy 160 west towards Durango, driving all the way to the Mesa Verde park entrance.
Colorado Springs to Mesa Verde National Park: Driving time and distance
Colorado Springs is approximately 350 miles far from the park. The drive takes a little over 6 hours with minimal stops. Most people however make this into a 4 day to 7 day road trip by exploring nearby sites.
Colorado Springs to Mesa Verde National Park Road Trip: Essential Stops
This road trip, which cuts across the southern portion of Colorado state, presents nature’s breathtaking beauty while showing off the state’s rustic charm. On your way, make sure to stopover and explore some of the state’s hidden gems, from Durango’s historic downtown to the Anasazi Heritage Center in Dolores. The sheer wonder of Mesa Verde National Park’s cliff dwellings is something you must see to believe. Here are the best places to stop from Denver to Mesa Verde National Park.
Also Read: Southwest Colorado Road Trip Itinerary
Pueblo
Pueblo is a historic city with plenty of things to do and explore. You can visit the Pueblo Riverwalk and take a stroll along the Arkansas River, or visit Sangre de Cristo Arts and Conference Center for some local art and cultural exhibits. The city also has a great selection of museums like the Steelworks Center of the West and the El Pueblo History Museum.
Alamosa
Alamosa is the gateway to the majestic San Juan Mountains as well as Great Sand Dunes National Park. On your way, you can make a stop at Alamosa National Wildlife Refuge. Here, you’ll find over 120 species of birds, including bald and golden eagles and white pelicans. The refuge also offers scenic drives for views of the surrounding landscape that is full of wildlife and nature. Downtown Alamosa is also full of unique shops and restaurants.
Great Sand Dunes National Park
The Great Sand Dunes National Park is one of Colorado’s most unusual sights. This desert park is home to some of the tallest sand dunes in North America, with some as high as 750 feet. At this national park, you can explore the different trails, go camping and stargazing, or explore the terrain while mountain biking. Other popular things to do include sandboarding, sledding, and taking a dip in Medano Creek.
Monte Vista
Monte Vista is a charming small town in Colorado. Its name literally translates to ‘mountain view’. This quaint mountain town boasts its own unique character, from its historic downtown to its picturesque landscapes and open meadows that call out for exploration. On your way, you can visit Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuge, which is home to over 300 different species of animals.
Del Norte
Del Norte is a small community in the San Luis Valley, surrounded by stunning mountain views. The town is known for its historical buildings and rustic charm, making it the perfect spot to take a break from the long drive. You can also visit Rio Grande County Museum which showcases local artifacts and wildlife specimens.
Wolf Creek Ski Area
if planning the trip in winter, you want to stop and ski at Wolf Creek Ski Area. This is one of the popular ski resorts in South Colorado. The slopes here are perfect for skiing, snowshoeing and sledding. You can also explore the trails or take a ride on the Wolf Creek chairlift and take in the stunning views of the surrounding valleys and mountains in summer.
Treasure Falls
Treasure Falls is located in the San Juan Forest and is an essential stop on Highway 160. It’s a picturesque spot and one of the most visited places in South Colorado. The falls are over 100 feet tall, making them one of the tallest waterfalls in the state. You can take a short hike to enjoy incredible views of Treasure Falls, have a picnic, and watch wildlife at this spot.
Pagosa Springs
Pagosa Springs is a great mountain town in Southwest Colorado. The town is home to several scenic hot springs, and a soak here feels just wonderful. You can also explore San Juan National Forest on foot or horseback and take in the incredible views of snow-capped mountains, bright blue sky, and expansive meadows. If you’re looking for some adventure, go rafting on the San Juan River or take a four-wheeler ride on the nearby trails.
Also Read: 23 Best Attractions in Pagosa Springs
Chimney Rock National Monument
Chimney Rock National Monument is a unique and historical spot in southwest Colorado. This ancient site was once used as an iconic landmark by the Ancestral Puebloans and is home to numerous archaeological sites and cliff dwellings – all unique in their own way compared to Mesa Verde.
You can hike around the monument, visit the great kiva, observe rock art, or take a guided tour of the ruins. The Monument is also home to an array of wildlife, including mule deer, bobcats, and bighorn sheep.
Durango
Durango is a charming town tucked away in southwestern Colorado and offers plenty of activities for all ages. The city’s historic downtown has old-fashioned saloons, shops, and restaurants that transport visitors back in time. You can take a ride on the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad and admire views of the Animas River Canyon. The city also has some great trails and scenic drives for exploring the local landscape.
Mesa Verde National Park
Finally, you reach the park. Mesa Verde National Park is home to magnificent cliff dwellings that are still standing today. You can take a self-guided tour of the Far View Sites or visit Balcony House and explore its ancient structures. Cliff Palace, the largest cliff dwelling in the park, is also a must visit attraction. The park offers plenty of activities for all ages, from ranger-led talks to guided hikes and campfire programs.
Read my guide on 17 Fun Things to do in Mesa Verde to plan your time in the park itself.
Mesa Verde National Park to Colorado Springs Road Trip Guide
Planning the road trip in opposite direction? You can also use our guide to plan a Colorado Springs CO road trip from Mesa Verde and elsewhere in the Four Corners region. Or you can take US-285 north from Del Norte through Salida and then US-24 east while making the return drive to Colorado Springs to drive through more mountain scenery.
Best time for Colorado Springs to Mesa Verde Road trip
The best time to do this road trip is from early spring to late fall, when the weather is mild and there are plenty of outdoor activities available. However, if you want to experience winter in Colorado, then December through February can be a great time for snow sports and other winter activities.
This road trip can also make for a great summer road trip as there are plenty of places to cool off and explore in the Four Corners Region. If planning to visit the national parks in peak season, be sure to book your tour tickets in advance and arrive early to escape crowds in the park.
Take in the beauty of the Southwest on this journey, be amazed by the great views, and enjoy a fun family vacation while making memories in Mesa Verde.