Colorado is a treasure trove of natural beauty and adventure for outdoor enthusiasts. And one of the state’s crown jewels is Mesa Verde National Park. Located in Montezuma County, Mesa Verde National Park is a unique archaeological site that offers visitors the chance to explore an ancient civilization.
Mesa Verde was established on 29th June, 1906 and covers over 80 square miles of stunning canyonlands, mesas, and alcoves. It’s one of the largest cliff dwellings in North America and protects more than 4,000 archaeological sites from different periods in history.
Fun fact: Mesa Verde means green table!
Planning a visit to Mesa Verde National Park in Colorado this year? From its fascinating history to the best trails and lodging options, this is your one-stop resource for planning the perfect Mesa Verde, Colorado experience.
In this complete guide, we’ll dive into everything you need to know to make the most of your visit to this breathtaking destination. Here is our ultimate guide to Mesa Verde Cliff Dwellings, Colorado.
Also Read: 17 Best National Parks and Monuments in Colorado
Where is Mesa Verde National Park Located?
Visitors often wonder, where is Mesa Verde National Park in Colorado? Where is Mesa Verde located? What state is Mesa Verde in? These questions also confuse international travelers who want to visit this famous UNESCO site.
Mesa Verde National Park is situated in the southwestern corner of Colorado, near the city of Cortez. Mesa Verde location is approximately 35 miles west of Durango and 9 miles east of Cortez. It is a 45 min drive from Durango while the Cortez to Mesa Verde drive is just under 15 minutes.
The park covers 52,485 acres of stunning wilderness and cultural history of North America. Elevation of Mesa Verde National Park ranges from 6,000 to 8,572 feet above sea level. In my experience, the park is not high enough as to cause breathing problems due to low oxygen.
For Mesa Verde National Park directions, type the park address Mesa Verde National Park, Mesa Verde, CO in your GPS device. Most GPS often give accurate addresses for Mesa Verde direction; still we recommend keeping an eye out for the correct exit to Mesa Verde on US-160W.
Also Read: Southwest Colorado Road Trip Itinerary
Reaching Mesa Verde National Park
If you are flying in, the closest airport to Mesa Verde is the Durango La Plata County Airport. From Durango to the park entrance, it is under 45 minutes drive. While major airlines such as fly to this airport, it is still a small airport. The best way to reach Mesa Verde National Park is on a road trip.
Denver to Mesa Verde National Park
You can fly in to Denver airport and road trip to Mesa Verde from Denver. Wondering how far is Mesa Verde from Denver? The Mesa Verde Denver Airport drive is 400 miles long and takes about 7 hours.
The Denver to Mesa Verde cliff dwellings passes via attractions such as Idaho Springs, Georgetown, Leadville, Salida, and Pagosa Springs. The drive is through splendid scenery of the Rockies. Read our post on Denver to Mesa Verde Road trip to plan this drive.
Colorado Springs to Mesa Verde
Mesa Verde National Park to Colorado Springs distance is 350 miles and the road trip takes a little over 6 hrs. Attractions on this route include Pueblo, Alamosa, Great Sand Dunes National Park, Monte Vista, and Durango. This is a fun road trip in the summer, read our Colorado Springs Mesa Verde road trip planning guide here.
Mesa Verde New Mexico Road Trip
Being in the Four Corners region, Mesa Verde is closer to Albuquerque and Santa Fe than Denver. You can also fly in to Albuquerque and plan a Mesa Verde road trip from there. The drive takes a little over 4 hours, but there are not many attractions along the way.
Mesa Verde Arizona Road Trip
Many visitors often plan a Mesa Verde AZ road trip to explore the two national parks in one visit. The Grand Canyon to Mesa Verde road trip time is just about 5 hours long and covers attractions such as Antelope Canyons in Page, Horseshoe Bend, Monument Valley, and Four Corners monument along the way.
Its a perfect family road trip in the southwest USA. Moab to Mesa Verde is just over 2 hours, hence many people also plan a trip to Utah parks along with southwest Colorado.
Best Time to Visit Mesa Verde National Park
Location of Mesa Verde in southwestern Colorado means that you can find yourself basking in sunshine or fighting the cold weather. Mesa Verde has a mild climate with temperatures ranging from below freezing in winter to the low 90s (32°C) in summer.
The park usually has sunny days throughout the year, and there is plenty of snow during winters, making it popular for snowshoeing and other winter activities. The best time to visit Mesa Verde National Park is during summer when temperatures are warm and dry.
The park receives most of its visitors from May to September, but if you’re looking for cooler temperatures, late spring or early autumn might be more suitable. The shoulder season to visit Mesa Verde National Park is during the spring or fall months. During these seasons, the weather is generally more temperate, and the park sees fewer crowds than in the summer.
However, it’s essential to note that some attractions, such as the Cliff Palace and Balcony House, may have limited access during the spring and fall due to seasonal closures. Be sure to check the park’s website for the most up-to-date information on site availability. It is important to keep an eye on the weather forecast before planning a trip to Mesa Verde National Park.
How many days to spend in Mesa Verde National Park
Mesa Verde National Park is a breathtaking destination for adventurers and nature lovers. While there are many attractions and activities to keep visitors busy, the question remains – how many days should you spend in the park? It all depends on what you want to see and do.
If you’re simply looking to take in the awe-inspiring views, see the ruins from overlooks, and snap a few photos, a day trip is enough. When planning a day trip, consider distances between attractions in the park. Visitors often ask, where is Mesa Verde cliff dwellings and visitor center from park entrance and are surprised to know that it is about 1 hour with several overlooks and trailheads along the way.
However, if you want to delve deeper into the park’s rich history, learn about the Anasazi Mesa Verde civilization, explore the fascinating cliff dwellings on tours, as well as hike some trails, then plan on spending at least two to three days.
This will give you enough time to take 1 or 2 ranger led tours, go on 1 or 2 medium length hikes, drive the park roads, and see the exhibits at the Chapin Mesa museum. Whatever you decide, make sure to bring along plenty of water and snacks as there are a limited number of dining options within the park.
The Allure of Mesa Verde National Park
What is Mesa Verde and why is it so important? Time to learn Mesa Verde history!
Mesa Verde is famous for its well-preserved Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings. These ancient structures were built by the Ancestral Pueblo people between AD 600 and 1300, and the park is home to over 4,500 known archaeological sites. The structures built on alcoves in the Mesa Verde National Park canyons are very large and intricate, testament to an advanced civilization.
How old is Mesa Verde? More than 700 years old!
The park acts as a protective barrier for the ancient cultural sites of Ancestral Pueblo people and preserves their incredible history spanning over 700 years. In fact, Mesa Verde National Park was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1978, ensuring the preservation of these remarkable archaeological treasures for future generations. It is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in archaeology and Native American culture.
Fun fact: Over a thousand species of insects can be found in Mesa Verde!
Best Things to Do in Mesa Verde National Park
Now that you know where is Mesa Verde National Park and why it is so important, let’s explore the top things to do in the park.
Mesa Verde has plenty of outdoor activities for visitors who love to explore nature or learn more about Native American history. The most popular attractions include tours of the cliff dwellings and other archeological sites, nature hikes, horseback rides, and exploring the nearby canyons.
The famed Mesa Verde ladders, which you will encounter on the guided tours to reach the cliff dwellings, are beloved by kids and adventure lovers! The park also offers ranger-led programs such as guided walks of the cliff dwellings which are a great way to learn more about the history of Mesa Verde and its inhabitants.
The park museum has several artifacts as well as pictures of Mesa Verde from the past and is a must visit. Mesa Verde is an international dark sky park and offers great star gazing opportunities.
Read our post on the best things to do in Mesa Verde National Park to plan your next trip.
Best Mesa Verde Hiking Trails
Hiking Mesa Verde National Park is one of the best ways to explore this unique landscape and its archeological sites. Mesa Verde National Park offers a variety of hiking trails to suit all skill levels.
Spruce Canyon Trail is a moderately challenging trail descends into Spruce Canyon and offers opportunities for birdwatching and spotting wildlife. Petroglyph Point Trail is one of our favorite Mesa Verde National Park hikes that takes you to see ancient rock art panels.
Soda Canyon Overlook Trail is a short and easy trail that offers fantastic views of the Balcony House cliff dwelling from a distance. It also has views of other Colorado Mesa Verde cliff dwellings.
Knife Edge Trail is an easy trail that leads to a stunning viewpoint overlooking Montezuma Valley, perfect for photography enthusiasts. The park has many other trails that offer unique views and adventures. Make sure to bring the right hiking gear, plenty of water and snacks for a safe and enjoyable experience.
Read our post on the 14 Best Mesa Verde hikes for more information on each of these trails.
Mesa Verde Visitor and Research Center
The Mesa Verde Visitor and Research Center is the perfect place to start your exploration of Mesa Verde National Park. Located at the entrance to the park, it provides visitors with a wealth of information about the area’s rich cultural heritage.
Inside, visitors can learn about the ancestral Puebloan people who lived in Mesa Verde over 700 years ago. It’s worth spending at least half an hour here learning about the history of this area
Chapin Mesa Museum
The Chapin Mesa Museum is one of the main attractions in Mesa Verde National Park. This museum houses a wealth of ancient artifacts and prehistoric objects found throughout the park, including pottery, baskets, jewelry, tools, and weapons used by the ancestral Puebloans.
Visitors can learn more about how these people lived and discover what life was like in Mesa Verde hundreds of years ago. There are also interactive exhibits and a theater showing films about Mesa Verde and the ancestral Puebloan people.
Famous Mesa Verde Cliff Dwellings
While the park has several thousands of archaeological sites, the Mesa Verde cliff dwellings are undoubtedly the most famous. These structures consist of multiple rooms built into alcoves in the rock face and were used as living quarters by Native American people over 700 years ago.
When you visit Mesa Verde, you must take the time to admire their construction and purpose. The most visited ruins include Balcony House, Cliff Palace, Long House, Square Tower House, and Step House.
Mesa Verde tickets to these ruin tours are released 15 days in advance by the National Park Service. Here is information about the popular cliff dwellings, Mesa Verde.
Cliff Palace, Mesa Verde
Cliff Palace of Mesa Verde is the largest and most famous cliff dwelling in the park. Ranger-guided tours of Cliff Palace are typically available from late April to mid-October in the mornings. These tours last approximately one hour and involve climbing simple ladders and walking over uneven terrain.
In the afternoon, you can enjoy self-guided tours of Mesa Verde Cliff Palace. On the tour, you can learn about the daily lives of the Ancestral Pueblo people who once lived there and explore the structures such as kivas and more. This is the most popular Mesa Verde Cliff dwellings tour and tickets get sold out as soon as they are released – so plan in advance.
Balcony House, Mesa Verde
Balcony House is another awe-inspiring cliff dwelling within the park. This site is accessible via ranger-guided tours, which are typically available from late April to mid-October.
The Balcony House tour is more adventurous than the Cliff House Mesa Verde tour, requiring visitors to climb a 32-foot ladder, crawl through a narrow tunnel, and traverse steep stairways. You need to be relatively fit to go on this tour.
Long House, Mesa Verde CO
Long House is another popular ruin in Mesa Verde National Park. It is located in Wetherill Mesa area and is the second largest park dwelling with about 150 rooms. Tours of this incredible archaeological site typically run from late April to mid-October. The 2 hour long tour is strenuous and also involves hiking for over 2.5 miles.
Note: Wetherill Mesa is closed for 2023 and 2024, hence tour is unavailable.
Step House, Mesa Verde National Park
Step House is a unique ruin located in the Wetherill Mesa. It can be seen on self-guided tours. The tours are 1 mile long and need minimum of 45 minutes at a normal pace. On the tour, you can see an ancient pit house built on mesa top as well as masonry pueblos that were the precursors to the cliff dwellings.
Note: Wetherill Mesa is closed for 2023 and 2024, hence tour is unavailable.
Spruce Tree House, Mesa Verde, Colorado
Spruce Tree House is another important ruin located in the Chapin Mesa behind the museum. This site used to be accessible via ranger-guided tours. However, it has since become unstable due to rockfall from the sandstone cliff above the alcove. Today, this very well-preserved ruin can be seen from an overlook.
Square Tower House, Mesa Verde
Square Tower House is the tallest ruin in Mesa Verde. It can be accessed by a strenuous ranger-led backcountry tour. The original structure is largely intact and the ruin also features plenty of Anasazi rock art. You can also admire stunning views of Montezuma Valley and surrounding areas from Square Tower House.
700 year tour, Mesa Verde
The private paid 700 year tour is a great way to explore Mesa Verde National Park and its rich cultural heritage with the help of an experienced archeological guide. This guided tour takes visitors through the history and culture of the ancient Puebloan people who lived in this area for over 700 years.
On this tour, you can see some of the cliff dwellings, learn about various theories about the abandonment of Mesa Verde, and explore other archeological sites. The 700 year tour typically lasts for 4 hours and is only available in the summer months from May to October.
It is a great way to learn more about this incredible place as well as get an insiders perspective on what life was like here before it was abandoned.
Sun Temple, Mesa Verde
The Sun Temple is a unique site at Mesa Verde NP located in the Chapin Mesa area. It can be accessed via the 6 mile long Mesa Top Loop Road. It has a sun dial carved on a boulder; the park protects it from erosion. Sun Temple also offers amazing views of Cliff Palace. The Mesa Top Loop Road also has several other Mesa Verde ruins adjacent to one another.
Mesa Verde National Park in winter
Mesa Verde National Park is truly magical in the winter months. With snow blanketing the landscape and icicles adorning the ancient cliff dwellings, there’s a serene beauty to be found here. The tours, campgrounds, and museum is closed in winter but the park road is always open.
You can snowshoe or hike to overlooks and see the majestic structures – without the heavy crowds of summer! Or you can even ski the wilderness and spot wildlife in the solitude of winter at Mesa Verde. Read our post on Mesa Verde National Park in winter for planning your trip.
Mesa Verde National Park Lodging
Wondering where to stay in Mesa Verde Park? The options for Mesa Verde National Park Lodging within the park boundaries are somewhat limited.
Mesa Verde National Park Camping
If you prefer to immerse yourself in nature, camping at Mesa Verde National Park is a fantastic option. The park’s Morefield Campground offers 267 sites, including options for tents and RVs. Amenities include restrooms, showers, a general store, and a gas station.
Reservations can be made in advance, so be sure to book your spot early, especially during the busy summer months. Camping in Mesa Verde National Park allows you to stay close to most attractions and save time. Read our post on Best Campgrounds near Mesa Verde National Park for other options.
Mesa Verde Far View Lodge
Far View Lodge, Mesa Verde is the only lodge in the park. The lodge offers rooms with a view of this incredible landscape. The rooms are decorated in Western style and feature handmade Native furnishings. Amenities include restaurant, bar area, gift shop, and more.
Mesa Verde RV Parks
If you prefer not to camp at Morefield Campground, there are plenty of RV parks near Mesa Verde National Park. These range from budget options to full-service resorts. Many of these offer great amenities such as pool, spa, restaurants, and activities.
Hotels Near Mesa Verde National Park
Seeking places to stay near Mesa Verde National Park that offer a bit more comfort? There are several lodges and hotels in Mesa Verde region that serve as good bases to explore the park. Most of them are located around Cortez or Mancos. Read our post on best places to stay near Mesa Verde to book your hotel.
Tips for Visiting Mesa Verde National Park
Visiting Mesa Verde National Park is an adventure you’ll never forget. Here are a few tips to help make the most of your trip:
- Start early in the day, as the park gets crowded quickly during summer months.
- Wear comfortable shoes and dress appropriately for weather conditions.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks;
- Bring your camera and binoculars;
- Be sure to check the park’s website for current conditions and closures before you go.
By following these simple tips, you’ll be ready for a great day of exploring this incredible national park!
Popular Attractions near Mesa Verde, CO
Mesa Verde is not only a wonder of ancient history, but it also offers plenty of other attractions and activities in the area. The Four Corners region near Mesa Verde has some stunning national parks, monuments, and tribal lands for outdoor adventures.
Popular attractions include Monument Valley, Natural Bridges National Monument, Hovenweep National Monument, and Canyon de Chelly National Monument. There are also many towns near Mesa Verde that offer plenty of small-town charm and great restaurants. Some of the most popular ones are Cortez, Mancos, and Farmington.
Nearby Durango is great for active vacations with its many hiking trails, biking paths, and whitewater rafting. Plus it’s home to the historic Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad for a unique train ride through beautiful canyons and mountain towns.
Mesa Verde in Colorado is a world apart from other cultural sites in the US. These historic cliff dwellings have intrigued cultural travelers and archeological enthusiasts while the Mesa Verde Canyons have attracted adventurers and hikers since decades.
Visiting Mesa Verde is an incredible experience that leaves you with a deep appreciation for the artistry and skill of the Ancestral Puebloans. What are your favorite things to do in the park? Which is your favorite of the Mesa Verde National Park cliff dwellings? Let us know below.