News Release

Mesa Verde is Modifying Operations to Implement Latest Health Guidance

Date: March 17, 2020
Contact: Cristy Brown, 970-529-4608

Mesa Verde is announcing modifications to operations to implement the latest guidance from the White House, Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC), and local and state authorities to promote social distancing. As of March 17, the Chapin Mesa Museum, Visitor and Research Center, Spruce Tree Terrace, and Mesa Verde Museum Association stores are closed until further notice. Tours of Cliff Palace have also been cancelled until May 1. There currently are no dining, lodging, or camping facilities available in the park. Where it is possible to adhere to the latest health guidance, Cliff Palace driving loop, Mesa Top driving loop, and the Far View Sites will remain open for visitors. Visitors may also enjoy Mesa Verde online by visiting our photo galleries, multi-media presentations, online app, and podcasts at https://www.nps.gov/meve/learn/index.htm.

Refunds for Cliff Palace tours will take place automatically, but those who had reservations should confirm this by checking recreation.gov.  

The health and safety of our visitors, employees, volunteers, and partners at Mesa Verde is our number one priority. The National Park Service (NPS) is working with the federal, state, and local authorities to closely monitor the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) situation. We will notify the public when we resume full operations and provide updates on our website and social media channels.  

The NPS urges visitors to do their part when visiting a park and to follow CDC guidance to prevent the spread of infectious diseases by maintaining a safe distance between yourself and other groups; washing your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds; avoiding touching your eyes, nose, and mouth; covering your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze; and most importantly, staying home if you feel sick.   

For high-risk populations, such as the elderly and people with underlying conditions, we ask that they take extra caution and follow CDC guidance for those at higher risk of serious illness.   

Updates about NPS operations will be posted on www.nps.gov/coronavirus. Please check with individual parks for specific details about park operations. 

-NPS-