FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Find quick facts about park hours, entry fees, and what is allowed inside the park boundaries.
Is Mesa Verde National Park open year-round?
Yes, the park is open year-round. However, visitor services are limited in winter. Wetherill Mesa and all ranger-led cliff dwelling tours are seasonal and close from November to April.
Do I need a reservation to enter Mesa Verde?
No reservation is needed to drive through the entrance gate. You only need to pay the standard vehicle fee. You do need advance reservations for specific cliff dwelling tours. See Tickets for options.
How much does it cost to get into Mesa Verde National Park?
Entry is $30 per private vehicle from May 1 to October 22. It drops to $20 per vehicle from October 23 to April 30. Standard NPS passes are accepted.
Can you just drive through Mesa Verde?
Yes. You can drive the scenic Mesa Top Loop Road to view cliff dwellings from overlooks. You can also drive to the museum and visitor center without booking a guided tour.
How long does it take to visit Mesa Verde National Park?
Plan for at least 4 to 8 hours. The drive from the entrance to the main sites takes 45 to 60 minutes each way. Adding a tour and some overlooks easily fills a half or full day.
Can you go inside the cliff dwellings at Mesa Verde?
Yes, but access is restricted. Most dwellings, like Cliff Palace, require a ranger-led tour reservation. The only exception is Step House on Wetherill Mesa, which is self-guided during the summer.
Are dogs allowed in Mesa Verde National Park?
Dogs are not allowed on trails or inside archaeological sites. They are only permitted in paved parking lots on a leash no longer than 6 feet.
What is the best time of year to visit Mesa Verde?
Mid-May through October is best. During this time, the entire park is open, including Wetherill Mesa and the guided tours. Read our Best Time to Visit guide for details.
Why is Spruce Tree House closed?
Spruce Tree House is closed due to the risk of rockfalls from the sandstone alcove above it. Visitors can still view it clearly from the overlook near the museum.
How far is the drive from the entrance to the cliff dwellings?
It is a 21-mile drive from the Highway 160 entrance to the main ruins on Chapin Mesa. Due to steep, winding mountain roads, the drive takes 45 to 60 minutes.
What is the elevation of Mesa Verde National Park?
The park's elevation ranges from 6,200 feet near the entrance to over 8,500 feet at Park Point. This high altitude means thinner air and strong sun exposure.