Mesa Verde National Park

This wild landscape of deep canyons and expansive vistas is home to over a thousand species, including several that live nowhere else on earth. For over 700 years, the Ancestral Pueblo people built thriving communities on the mesas and in the cliffs of Mesa Verde. Today, the park protects the rich cultural heritage of 26 tribes and offers visitors a spectacular window into the past.

Additional Information

Good For

Wheelchairs

Hearing Impaired

Families

Visually Impaired

Activities

Birdwatching

Sightseeing

Hiking

Photography

Wildlife Watching

Cross Country Skiing

Snowshoeing

Tent Camping

Rv Camping

Fishing

Atv Riding

Stargazing

Biking

Camping

Guided Tours

Rules & Regulations

Dogs On Leash

No Unmanned Aircrafts

Accessibility Description

Mesa Verde National Park has accessibility limitations for people with vision, hearing or mobility impairments. Visitors encounter rugged terrain at an elevation of 7,000 to 8,500 feet. Steep cliffs, deep canyons and narrow trails can be a danger to all visitors. Persons with heart or respiratory ailments may have breathing problems at this altitude. Wheelchairs with wide rim wheels are recommended on trails.

More information is available on Mesa Verde's website.

Directions

Mesa Verde National Park is in Southwestern Colorado. The park entrance is along Highway 160, between the towns of of Cortez and Mancos, Colorado. (10 miles east of Cortez; 9 miles west of Mancos; and about 35 miles west of Durango, Colorado.) Once you enter the park, the first view of a cliff dwelling is 21 miles (approximately 45 minutes) along a steep, narrow, and winding road.

Mesa Verde Entrance Fee - Per Vehicle - Summer Season

Entrance fee is $30.00.

This is a per-vehicle entrance fee for the summer season (May 1 to October 31, 2020). It is valid for seven days from the day of purchase. Please note that we offer fee waivers for qualified education groups. Visit http://www.nps.gov/meve/learn/education/feewaiver_info.htm to learn more.

Weather

Spring: Temps range from 40 F to 70 F, but snowstorms can occur as late as May. Summer: Temps can reach well into the 90s F. Thunderstorms are common in July and August. Be prepared to bring and DRINK plenty of water. Fall: Temps can range from 50 F to 75 F. Snowstorms can occur as early as October. Winter: Temps can range from the teens to low 30s F. Icy roads are common. Snow tires, all-wheel drive, or chains, may be required. Be prepared with water, snacks, and layers of warm clothing.