To get the most out of your visit to Mesa Verde, stop first at the Mesa Verde Visitor and Research Center for park information. The visitor center is located near the park entrance on U.S. Hwy 160. The Mesa Verde Museum, park headquarters, and Spruce Tree House are 21 miles (34 km) from the park entrance.
The route into the park is a steep, narrow, winding mountain road. The drive is scenic with a number pull-offs and overlooks that provide spectacular views into four states; please also use them to allow faster drivers to safely pass. Watch for wildlife and for rocks that may have fallen on to the road.
Drive Times in Park
Please plan to arrive at your tour destination at least 15 minutes before your tour begins.
From |
To |
Drive Time |
Park Entrance |
Cliff Palace |
1 hour |
Park Entrance |
Balcony House |
1 hour |
Park Entrance |
Long House |
1.5 hours |
Cliff Palace |
Long House |
1.25 hours |
Balcony House |
Long House |
1.25 hours |