Mesa Verde Park Headquarters: Gateway to Ancestral Puebloan History
Discover the heart of Mesa Verde National Park, where Ancestral Puebloan history comes to life.
The Mesa Verde Park Headquarters serves as the central administrative hub for Mesa Verde National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site preserving the archeological heritage of the Ancestral Pueblo people. Located near the park entrance, it's the starting point for exploring the park's remarkable cliff dwellings and mesa-top sites.
A brief summary to Mesa Verde Park Headquarters
- Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado, 81330, US
- +1970-529-4465
- Visit website
Local tips
- Start your visit at the Mesa Verde Visitor and Research Center near the park entrance for information, maps, and tour reservations.
- Allow at least 45 minutes to drive from the park entrance to the Chapin Mesa archeological sites.
- Purchase park entrance passes online in advance, as connectivity within the park is limited.
- Bring water and snacks, as food and drink options are limited within the park.
- Check the park's website for current conditions, closures, and tour availability, especially during the winter months.
Getting There
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Driving
From the park entrance on Highway 160, follow the main park road south. The Park Headquarters is approximately 21 miles (45 minutes) from the entrance. The road is steep, narrow, and winding, so drive carefully and allow ample time. Trailers and towed vehicles are not permitted beyond Morefield Campground, located 4 miles from the entrance; park these vehicles in the designated lot near the entrance station. Mesa Verde National Park requires an entrance fee. As of July 2025, a standard pass costs $30 per vehicle, valid for seven days. Alternatively, an annual pass is available for $55. Digital passes can be purchased online at recreation.gov. Credit cards are the only accepted form of payment.
Discover more about Mesa Verde Park Headquarters
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Mesa Verde Administrative District
0.0 km
Discover the rich cultural heritage and stunning cliff dwellings of the Mesa Verde Administrative District, a must-see historical landmark in Colorado.
Coyote Village
6.1 km
Discover the rich history of the Ancestral Puebloans at Coyote Village, an archaeological gem in Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado.
Megalithic House
6.6 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.
Yucca House National Monument
19.0 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
21.9 km
Experience exceptional event planning at The Moore The Merrier, where every celebration is crafted to perfection in beautiful Colorado.
Escalante Pueblo
33.1 km
Explore the ancient wonders of Escalante Pueblo, where history and nature converge in the stunning landscapes of Dolores, Colorado.
Welcome to Colorado Sign
33.7 km
Discover the gateway to adventure at Colorado's iconic Welcome Sign, a must-visit historical landmark for every traveler.
Discover Durango
44.7 km
Experience the breathtaking outdoor adventures in Durango, Colorado, with expert hiking guides and top-notch rental services for a memorable journey.
McElmo Canyon
50.1 km
Explore McElmo Canyon in Colorado for breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and peaceful outdoor adventures, perfect for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Painted Hand Pueblo
52.1 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
Petroglyph Point Trail
0.1 km
Explore ancient rock art and stunning canyon views on the Petroglyph Point Trail in Mesa Verde National Park. A journey through time!
Chapin Mesa Archeological Museum
0.1 km
Discover the ancient world of the Ancestral Pueblo people at Mesa Verde's Chapin Mesa Archeological Museum.
Spruce Tree House
0.1 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.
Navajo Canyon View
1.9 km
Experience breathtaking vistas of Navajo Canyon and ancient cliff dwellings at this must-see overlook in Mesa Verde National Park.
Square Tower House
2.0 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.
Cliff Palace
2.3 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.
Mesa Top Sites
2.3 km
Discover 700 years of Ancestral Puebloan history at Mesa Verde's Mesa Top Sites, showcasing evolving architecture and ancient traditions.
Sun Temple
2.4 km
Explore the mysteries of the Sun Temple, an Ancestral Puebloan ceremonial site in Mesa Verde National Park, offering stunning views and archaeological intrigue.
Sun Point View
2.7 km
Witness stunning panoramic views of ancient Puebloan cliff dwellings from this easily accessible overlook in Mesa Verde National Park.
Soda Canyon Overlook South
3.0 km
Discover breathtaking views and rich cultural history at Soda Canyon Overlook South in Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado.
Balcony House
3.2 km
Explore Balcony House in Mesa Verde: A thrilling adventure into Ancestral Puebloan history and architecture.
Hemenway House Overlook
3.8 km
Witness the ancient Hemenway House from this stunning Mesa Verde National Park overlook, a tribute to Ancestral Puebloan ingenuity.
Long House
4.2 km
Uncover the rich history and stunning architecture of the Long House, an incredible cliff dwelling in Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado.
Step House
4.5 km
Discover the unique blend of ancient cultures at Step House, Mesa Verde National Park's fascinating self-guided cliff dwelling.
Wetherill Mesa Information
4.6 km
Experience the wonders of Mesa Verde National Park at the Wetherill Mesa Information Center, your essential guide to exploring this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Essential places to dine
Spruce Tree Terrace Café
0.3 km
Discover the flavors of America at Spruce Tree Terrace Café in Mesa Verde National Park – where delicious food meets stunning natural beauty.
D N M Grillen Native
47.2 km
Experience authentic New Mexican cuisine at D N M Grillen Native, where local flavors meet warm hospitality in Shiprock.
Chat & Chew
47.5 km
Discover mouthwatering burgers at Chat & Chew in Shiprock – where flavor meets local charm.
That's A Burger
48.6 km
Discover That's A Burger in Shiprock - where delicious fast food meets local charm!
Bamboo House Restaurant
48.8 km
Experience authentic Chinese cuisine at Bamboo House Restaurant in Shiprock - where every dish tells a story of flavor.
Nataaní Nez
50.0 km
Experience the rich flavors of Native American cuisine at Nataaní Nez in Shiprock, New Mexico – where tradition meets taste.
Burger Theory
53.7 km
Discover the best gourmet burgers and vibrant sports atmosphere at Burger Theory in Durango, Colorado.
Grill On the Hill
53.8 km
Experience delectable grilled dishes amidst breathtaking views at Grill On the Hill in Farmington - your ultimate culinary retreat.
Animas Grille & Lounge
54.2 km
Experience the best of American cuisine with stunning river views at Animas Grille & Lounge in Durango.
Perbacco Cucina Italiana
54.5 km
Experience the essence of Italy at Perbacco Cucina Italiana in Durango—delicious food, warm ambiance, and unforgettable memories await.
Sizzling Siam
54.5 km
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T's Smokehouse & Grill
54.5 km
Discover the rich flavors of Southern cuisine at T's Smokehouse & Grill in Durango—where barbecue meets Cajun and Creole traditions.
Nini's Taqueria
54.5 km
Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at Nini's Taqueria in Durango - where tradition meets innovation in every delicious bite.
Container of Food
54.6 km
Discover flavorful dishes at Container of Food in Durango – where local ingredients meet culinary creativity in a welcoming atmosphere.
Michel's Corner Crepes
54.6 km
Discover the essence of French cuisine at Michel's Corner Crepes in Durango—where every bite transports you to Paris.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Main Parking Area
0.2 km
Explore the stunning Mesa Verde National Park from its Main Parking Area, a gateway to ancient cliff dwellings and rich cultural heritage.
Far View Terrace Café / Gift Shop / Mesa Mocha
8.2 km
Experience the perfect blend of American cuisine and breathtaking views at Far View Terrace Café in Mesa Verde National Park.
Sinclair Gas Station
8.3 km
Experience convenience and comfort at Sinclair Gas Station, your essential stop in the heart of Mesa Verde National Park.
Knife Edge Cafe at Morefield Village
14.2 km
Experience the perfect blend of local flavors and breathtaking views at Knife Edge Cafe in Mesa Verde National Park.
Camp Store
14.3 km
Explore the Camp Store in Mancos, Colorado, your go-to destination for unique gifts, local crafts, and essential camping supplies amidst stunning landscapes.
Thunderbird Trading Company
15.9 km
Explore authentic Native American crafts and gifts at Thunderbird Trading Company in Cortez, Colorado, a cultural gem for discerning travelers.
Entrance Station Kiosk
17.6 km
Explore the Entrance Station Kiosk in Colorado, a vital hub for adventure seekers and nature lovers seeking guidance and information.
Antique Corral
17.7 km
Explore the Antique Corral in Cortez, CO - a hidden gem filled with vintage treasures and unique collectibles for every enthusiast.
Mesa Verde Museum Association
18.3 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
19.2 km
Explore nature's beauty at Cliffrose Garden Center & Gifts, where unique plants meet thoughtful gifts in the heart of Cortez, Colorado.
Buffalo Bob's Co-op
19.9 km
Explore Buffalo Bob's Co-op in Cortez, Colorado for unique home goods and handcrafted treasures reflecting local artistry.
LaDawn's
20.1 km
Explore LaDawn's Consignment Shop in Cortez, Colorado, for unique finds and vintage treasures that showcase local culture and charm.
Say Yes Bridal & Boutique
20.1 km
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Anna's Mini Treasure
20.1 km
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Love On A Hanger
20.2 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Roadside Fry Bread Stand
3.8 km
Experience the essence of Native American cuisine with delicious fry bread in the stunning Mesa Verde National Park.
Far View Lounge
8.3 km
Experience the perfect blend of exquisite cuisine and breathtaking views at Far View Lounge in Mesa Verde National Park.
Metate Room
8.3 km
Experience the rich flavors of American cuisine at the Metate Room, where stunning views and a warm atmosphere await every visitor.
Kuchu's Restaurant
17.6 km
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The Meltdown
19.4 km
Discover the perfect blend of local flavors and welcoming ambiance at The Meltdown, a must-visit restaurant in Cortez, Colorado.
The Wigglin’ Pig
19.4 km
Experience the heart of Cortez at The Wigglin’ Pig, where delicious breakfast dishes and a warm atmosphere await every visitor.
J Fargo's Family Dining & Micro Brewery
19.7 km
Experience the best of traditional American cuisine and craft brews at J Fargo's Family Dining & Micro Brewery in Cortez, Colorado.
Fiesta Mexicana Restaurant Cortez
19.8 km
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Blondies Trophy Room
20.2 km
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Main Street Brewery & Restaurant
20.2 km
Experience the essence of Colorado craft brewing at Main Street Brewery & Restaurant, where delicious food meets artisanal beers in Cortez.
Loungin' Lizard
20.3 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and unique flavors of Loungin' Lizard, a top dining destination in Cortez, Colorado.
ZU Gallery
20.3 km
Discover the perfect blend of art and wine at ZU Gallery in Cortez, Colorado, where creativity and culture come together in a vibrant setting.
WildEdge Brewing Collective
20.4 km
Discover the rich flavors of craft beer at WildEdge Brewing Collective, a must-visit brewpub in Cortez, Colorado, offering a unique selection and vibrant atmosphere.
Angel's End Zone Sports Bar
20.8 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Angel's End Zone Sports Bar in Cortez, Colorado, where delicious food and sports unite for an unforgettable experience.
Cortez Elks Lodge #1789
21.6 km
Discover the heart of Cortez at Cortez Elks Lodge #1789, where community spirit meets delicious food and memorable events.
