Explore the Ancient Wonders of Mesa Verde National Park
Witness the incredible cliff dwellings and rich history of Mesa Verde National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Colorado's stunning landscapes.
Mesa Verde National Park, located in the stunning landscapes of Colorado, offers a captivating glimpse into the lives of the Ancestral Puebloans. Visitors can explore remarkable cliff dwellings, hike scenic trails, and immerse themselves in the rich history and culture of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
A brief summary to Mesa Verde National Park
- Colorado, US
- +1970-529-4465
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, as amenities within the park are limited.
- Be sure to wear sturdy hiking shoes for exploring the trails and cliff dwellings.
- Participate in ranger-led programs to gain deeper insights into the history and ecology of the park.
- Check for seasonal road and site closures before your visit to plan your itinerary effectively.
Getting There
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Car
To reach Mesa Verde National Park from High Plains, start by getting onto US-385 S. Follow US-385 S for approximately 70 miles until you reach the junction with US-50 W. Merge onto US-50 W and continue for about 40 miles. Then take the exit for US-160 W toward Durango and continue for approximately 30 miles. Finally, turn left onto Mesa Verde National Park Entrance Road and follow the signs to the park entrance. Note that there is an entrance fee of $20 per vehicle, valid for 7 days.
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Public Transportation
While public transportation options are limited in this region, you can take a Greyhound bus from High Plains to Durango. Once you arrive in Durango, you can use a local taxi service or rideshare app to reach Mesa Verde National Park, approximately 35 miles away. Be aware that taxi fares can vary, so it's advisable to check the cost beforehand.
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Rideshare
If you're looking for a more flexible public transportation option, consider using a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft. You can book a ride from any point in High Plains to Mesa Verde National Park. This option allows for more direct travel, but the cost will depend on the distance and demand at the time of booking.
Discover more about Mesa Verde National Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Megalithic House
3.9 km
Explore the Megalithic House in Mesa Verde National Park, a historical landmark that reveals the architectural brilliance of ancient civilizations amidst stunning natural beauty.
Coyote Village
4.0 km
Discover the rich history of the Ancestral Puebloans at Coyote Village, an archaeological gem in Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado.
Mesa Verde Administrative District
5.7 km
Discover the rich cultural heritage and stunning cliff dwellings of the Mesa Verde Administrative District, a must-see historical landmark in Colorado.
Yucca House National Monument
20.0 km
Explore the ancient Puebloan ruins at Yucca House National Monument, a serene escape steeped in history and natural beauty in Cortez, Colorado.
The Moore The Merrier
23.3 km
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Escalante Pueblo
28.4 km
Explore the ancient wonders of Escalante Pueblo, where history and nature converge in the stunning landscapes of Dolores, Colorado.
Welcome to Colorado Sign
35.4 km
Discover the gateway to adventure at Colorado's iconic Welcome Sign, a must-visit historical landmark for every traveler.
Discover Durango
41.5 km
Experience the breathtaking outdoor adventures in Durango, Colorado, with expert hiking guides and top-notch rental services for a memorable journey.
DurangoLiveCam
46.6 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes of Durango, Colorado through live feeds at DurangoLiveCam, an essential virtual stop for all travelers.
Durango Off Leash Dog Park
50.9 km
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McElmo Canyon
51.0 km
Explore McElmo Canyon in Colorado for breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and peaceful outdoor adventures, perfect for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Animas River Trail & Greenway
51.2 km
Discover the natural beauty of Durango, Colorado at the Animas River Trail & Greenway, a scenic escape perfect for outdoor activities and relaxation.
Painted Hand Pueblo
51.3 km
Explore the awe-inspiring Painted Hand Pueblo, a historical landmark that reveals the rich cultural heritage of Colorado's Ancestral Puebloans amidst stunning natural beauty.
Unmissable attractions to see
Far View House
3.8 km
Explore the ancient Ancestral Puebloan ruins at Far View House in Mesa Verde National Park, a captivating blend of history and breathtaking scenery.
Far View Tower
3.9 km
Discover the ancient Far View Tower in Mesa Verde, a window into early Puebloan life on the mesa tops.
Far View Reservoir
4.0 km
Discover the ancient water management techniques of the Ancestral Puebloans at the Far View Reservoir in Mesa Verde National Park.
Chapin Mesa Archeological Museum
5.7 km
Discover the ancient world of the Ancestral Pueblo people at Mesa Verde's Chapin Mesa Archeological Museum.
Spruce Tree House
5.7 km
Discover the ancient architecture of Spruce Tree House in Mesa Verde National Park, a testament to the ingenuity of the Ancestral Puebloans amidst breathtaking scenery.
Petroglyph Point Trail
5.7 km
Explore ancient rock art and stunning canyon views on the Petroglyph Point Trail in Mesa Verde National Park. A journey through time!
Mesa Verde Park Headquarters
5.7 km
Discover the heart of Mesa Verde National Park, where Ancestral Puebloan history comes to life.
Cliff Palace
7.2 km
Explore the ancient Cliff Palace, the largest cliff dwelling in North America, and step back in time to experience Ancestral Puebloan life in Mesa Verde.
Soda Canyon Overlook South
7.3 km
Discover breathtaking views and rich cultural history at Soda Canyon Overlook South in Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado.
Sun Temple
7.5 km
Explore the mysteries of the Sun Temple, an Ancestral Puebloan ceremonial site in Mesa Verde National Park, offering stunning views and archaeological intrigue.
Montezuma Valley Overlook
7.5 km
Experience breathtaking panoramic views of the Montezuma Valley from this easily accessible overlook in Mesa Verde National Park.
Navajo Canyon View
7.6 km
Experience breathtaking vistas of Navajo Canyon and ancient cliff dwellings at this must-see overlook in Mesa Verde National Park.
Square Tower House
7.7 km
Explore the remarkable Square Tower House in Mesa Verde National Park, a historic site showcasing the ingenuity of the Ancestral Puebloans amidst breathtaking scenery.
Balcony House
7.7 km
Explore Balcony House in Mesa Verde: A thrilling adventure into Ancestral Puebloan history and architecture.
Sun Point View
7.7 km
Witness stunning panoramic views of ancient Puebloan cliff dwellings from this easily accessible overlook in Mesa Verde National Park.
Essential places to dine
Spruce Tree Terrace Café
5.5 km
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Burger Theory
50.7 km
Discover the best gourmet burgers and vibrant sports atmosphere at Burger Theory in Durango, Colorado.
Animas Grille & Lounge
51.2 km
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Perbacco Cucina Italiana
51.5 km
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Sizzling Siam
51.5 km
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T's Smokehouse & Grill
51.5 km
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Nini's Taqueria
51.5 km
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Michel's Corner Crepes
51.5 km
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Mahogany Grille
51.5 km
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Diamond Belle Saloon
51.5 km
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Derailed Pour House
51.6 km
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Fired Up Pizzeria
51.6 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Fired Up Pizzeria in Durango—where fresh ingredients meet wood-fired perfection.
636 Main Ave
51.6 km
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Gazpacho Restaurant
51.6 km
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Switchback
51.6 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Sinclair Gas Station
4.2 km
Experience convenience and comfort at Sinclair Gas Station, your essential stop in the heart of Mesa Verde National Park.
Far View Terrace Café / Gift Shop / Mesa Mocha
4.5 km
Experience the perfect blend of American cuisine and breathtaking views at Far View Terrace Café in Mesa Verde National Park.
Main Parking Area
5.6 km
Explore the stunning Mesa Verde National Park from its Main Parking Area, a gateway to ancient cliff dwellings and rich cultural heritage.
Knife Edge Cafe at Morefield Village
8.5 km
Experience the perfect blend of local flavors and breathtaking views at Knife Edge Cafe in Mesa Verde National Park.
Camp Store
8.5 km
Explore the Camp Store in Mancos, Colorado, your go-to destination for unique gifts, local crafts, and essential camping supplies amidst stunning landscapes.
Entrance Station Kiosk
11.9 km
Explore the Entrance Station Kiosk in Colorado, a vital hub for adventure seekers and nature lovers seeking guidance and information.
Mesa Verde Museum Association
12.6 km
Explore the rich history of the ancient Puebloan culture at the Mesa Verde Museum Association, your gateway to the wonders of Mesa Verde National Park.
Cliffrose Garden Center & Gifts
15.0 km
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Mud Creek Hogan Trading Post
15.7 km
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Countyroad9
15.7 km
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Antique Corral
15.9 km
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Thunderbird Trading Company
16.0 km
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Buffalo Bob's Co-op
16.4 km
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LaDawn's
16.8 km
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Anna's Mini Treasure
16.8 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Far View Lounge
4.1 km
Experience the perfect blend of exquisite cuisine and breathtaking views at Far View Lounge in Mesa Verde National Park.
Metate Room
4.2 km
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Roadside Fry Bread Stand
8.3 km
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The Meltdown
15.7 km
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The Wigglin’ Pig
15.8 km
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Fiesta Mexicana Restaurant Cortez
15.9 km
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J Fargo's Family Dining & Micro Brewery
16.2 km
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Blondies Trophy Room
17.0 km
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Main Street Brewery & Restaurant
17.0 km
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Loungin' Lizard
17.1 km
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ZU Gallery
17.1 km
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WildEdge Brewing Collective
17.2 km
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Cortez Elks Lodge #1789
17.6 km
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Angel's End Zone Sports Bar
17.7 km
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Columbine Bar & Grill
19.8 km
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