National Parks Journal
Photo: NPS Photo
Mesa Verde National Park
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 27 Pueblos and Tribes and offers visitors a spectacular window into the past. This World Heritage Site and International Dark Sky Park is home to over a thousand species, including several that live nowhere else on earth.
Entrance Fees
Activities
Top Hikes
2.4 mi · 227 ft gain · loop
Rugged trail with steep drop-offs, boulder scrambles, and stone staircases to an impressive petroglyph panel on a 100-foot cliff.
Starts at: Spruce Tree House Overlook
2.2 mi · 400 ft gain · out & back
Steep switchbacks to panoramic views of the San Juan and La Plata Mountains from Point Lookout.
Starts at: Morefield Campground
7.8 mi · 675 ft gain · loop
After a 1.1-mile climb, choose north or south loop for views of Montezuma Valley or Prater and Morefield Canyons.
Starts at: Morefield Campground
2 mi · 60 ft gain · out & back
Level trail following the historic 1914 park road along Mesa Verde's north escarpment with expansive views.
Starts at: Morefield Campground
Upcoming Events
Sunday Bird Walk
Join a park ranger for a monthly morning bird walk, all skill levels welcome! A different location each month. Bring water as well as appropriate footwear and clothing. Be prepared for poor weather. Binoculars and field guides are available. April 26th: Morefield Village, 7:00 AM Conditions: Paved roads and walkways Species: Falcons, bluebirds, eagles May 17th: Knife Edge Trailhead, 7:00 AM Conditions: 2-mile dirt trail, minimal elevation gain Species: Warblers, grosbeaks, hummingbirds June 21st: Mancos River (Meet at VRC), 7:00 AM Conditions: Dirt road driving, rushy riverside ecosystem, no formal trail Species: Warblers, chats, buntings July 19th: Spruce Canyon Trailhead, 7:00 AM Conditions: 2.4-mile canyon trail, 600 feet elevation gain Species: Vireos, jays, vultures August 17th: Wetherill Mesa Kiosk, 7:30 AM Conditions: 5-mile paved trail, minimal shade Species: Meadowlarks, wrens, sparrows September 21st: Far View Sites, 7:00 AM Conditions: .75-mile flat dirt trail Species: Warblers, titmice, chickadees October 19th: Cedar Tree Tower, 7:30 AM Conditions: Paved road, unpaved trail, 150 ft elevation gain Species: Swallows, warblers, wrens
Best Time to Visit
Best time to visit: April
Pleasant weather with fewer crowds
Weather & Climate
SPRING: This season offers a range of weather including clear skies, wind, rain, cloudy days and temperatures from 40–70°F (4–21° C). Snow may fall into May. SUMMER: Most days are sunny and temperatures can reach above 90°F (32°C) . Thunderstorms are common in July and August. FALL: Temperatures range from 50–75°F (10–24°C). Snow may fall as early as October. WINTER: Temps range from the teens to low 30s F (below -1°C) . Icy roads are common. Snow tires, all-wheel drive, or chains may be required.