News Release

Traffic Delays Expected on Main Park Road

Date: September 26, 2022
Contact: Laurie Smith, 970-529-4632

Mesa Verde, CO:  Mesa Verde National Park advises, beginning September 26, visitors should plan for traffic delays of up to 30 minutes between mile 1.6 and 3.2 from the park entrance on US 160 due to road construction and rock scaling along this portion of the road. Rock scaling is performed periodically to address safety concerns posed by the presence of large rocks on an unstable slope next to the road.  

On Tuesday, September 27, traffic control is expected to begin at 7:30 am, with up to 30-minute holds on both lanes throughout the day until work ceases at 5:00 pm. Work will take place Monday – Friday until further notice. 

Visitors with tour reservations are encouraged to read the ticket information carefully and know the expected drive times between the entrance to the park and their tour destination. All tours begin at least a one-hour drive from the entrance. Long House tours require an additional 20-minute walk from the parking lot to the trailhead. Visitors are always encouraged to arrive at least 15 minutes prior to tour times for a safety and logistics briefing! 

More than 20,000 National Park Service employees care for America’s 419 national parks and work with communities across the nation to help preserve local history and create close-to-home recreational opportunities. Learn more at www.nps.gov.  

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