Mesa Verde National Park

The largest archaeological preserve in the nation, Mesa Verde National Park boasts more than 4,000 known archaeological sites including 600 amazing cliff dwellings. This southwestern Colorado park is a fascinating tribute to the culture of the Puebloan people and a designated World Heritage Site that can be enjoyed by all ages.

Mesa Verde National Park borders the Ute Mountain Ute Indian Reservation and is located near the Four Corners Monument, the spot in the U.S. where four states – Colorado, Arizona, Utah, and New Mexico - come together in one place.

At 52,000 acres in size, there’s plenty to explore in Mesa Verde. The cliff dwellings are the centerpiece of the park and the reason most people visit. A number of cliff dwellings can be toured during a visit to the park. Two of them – Spruce Tree House and Step House – can be seen via a self-guided tour. The others are ranger-led. Tickets for guided tours are available at the Far View Visitor Center.

Visitors should also be sure to visit the Mesa Top sites, such as the Far View Archaeological Complex, where you’ll find a series of surface structures that span a large time period. Check out the “towers” built between 1100 and 1300 and the fine examples of terrace farming practiced by the Puebloans, who lived here for 700 years.

Guests should also make time to explore the Chapin Mesa Archeological Museum, featuring dioramas that display Ancestral Puebloan life as well as prehistoric artifacts. An orientation film is also shown several times per day.

Hiking is quite restricted in Mesa Verde National Park because of the importance of preserving the archaeological sites located there. However, a handful of designated hiking trails are available, ranging from .5 miles to about 8 miles. Trails take you past petroglyphs, through pretty canyons, and up to lookout points.

When there’s enough snow, cross country skiing and snowshoeing can be enjoyed on a few of the flatter loop roads that wind through the park.

From May through early November, visitors can arrange an overnight stay at the pretty Far View Lodge, located near the Visitor Center. The view from the lodge is breathtaking, though rooms are basic, with no TVs or phones. However, the lodge is a good option for those who don’t enjoy camping.

Just outside the park, 435 campsites are available at Morefield Campground. Camping is open to tents, trailers, and RVs and the campsite is run by the same company that manages the Far View Lodge.

The Mesa Verde Headquarters is a one-hour drive from Cortez, Colorado, heading east on Highway 160 to the park turnoff, and a 1.5 hour drive from Durango, Colorado, heading west on Highway 160 to the park turnoff. It’s necessary to have a car to explore Mesa Verde as the closest cliff dwelling is 21 miles from the park entrance.

Peak visitation time for Mesa Verde National Park is during the summer months of June, July, and August. Though the weather can be hot, it is usually pleasant enough to explore in comfort. Limited access to the cliff dwellings and the other archaeological sites in the park is offered during the winter months.

Mesa Verde National Park
PO Box 8
Mesa Verde, CO 81330-0008

Headquarters - 970-529-4465
Visitor Information - 970-529-4465