Mesa Verde National Park Vacations from $996

Cliff Palace

Rating: 9.4/10 (292 reviews)

Explore North America's largest cliff dwelling, where Ancestral Puebloans built 150 rooms between 1190-1280 CE. Ranger-led tours showcase intricate masonry and daily life of this remarkable civilization.

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Spruce Tree House

Rating: 9.4/10 (157 reviews)

Built between 1211 and 1278, this third-largest Mesa Verde cliff dwelling once housed 80 Ancestral Puebloans. View its 130 rooms and 8 ceremonial kivas from overlooks near the Chapin Mesa Museum.

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Balcony House

Rating: 9.4/10 (213 reviews)

Step back in time at Balcony House, a 13th-century cliff dwelling accessed via a 32-foot ladder and narrow tunnel. The ranger-guided tour reveals ancient Puebloan life while offering stunning views of Soda Canyon.

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Far View Sites

Rating: 9.0/10 (105 reviews)

Explore Far View Sites' ancient mesa-top villages, inhabited by Ancestral Puebloans before they built Mesa Verde's famous cliff dwellings. The self-guided trail reveals preserved kivas and a prehistoric reservoir.

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Soda Canyon Overlook Trail

Rating: 9.0/10 (4 reviews)

This accessible 1.2-mile trail winds through pinyon-juniper forest to three overlooks of ancient cliff dwellings. Enjoy panoramic views of Balcony House without needing a guided tour.

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Park Point

Rating: 9.6/10 (45 reviews)

From 8,572 feet above sea level, Park Point offers the highest panoramic views in Mesa Verde National Park. Hike the short but steep trail to witness four states converging across the dramatic Four Corners landscape.

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Knife Edge Trail

Rating: 9.2/10 (36 reviews)

This historic trail follows the park's original entrance road, offering panoramic views of Montezuma Valley. Time your visit for sunset when the landscape transforms with dramatic golden light.

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Point Lookout Trail

Rating: 9.2/10 (21 reviews)

Featuring majestic views of the Montezuma and Mancos valleys and surrounding Colorado countryside, this path is one of the most scenic in Mesa Verde National Park.

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Find out more about Mesa Verde National Park

Things to do in and around Mesa Verde National Park

Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Mesa Verde National Park, perfect for outdoor adventures and scenic experiences. Engage in various activities like guided tours showcasing the park's rich history and archaeological sites. Don't miss the opportunity for local and adventure tours, where knowledgeable guides will enhance your visit. Whether you're interested in recreational areas or simply soaking in the natural beauty, Mesa Verde offers a memorable vacation experience.

Shopping

In Mesa Verde National Park, check out the Visitor Center's gift shop for unique souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, visit Cortez's Main Street, where you’ll find local shops and galleries, or head to the Cortez Plaza Shopping Center for more options.

Recreation

Explore McPhee Recreation Area, located 18 miles from Mesa Verde National Park, for a serene escape. Enjoy tranquil lakeside views, perfect for relaxation and mindfulness. Engage in outdoor activities like hiking and fishing, or simply soak in the peaceful atmosphere surrounded by nature's beauty.

Adventure

At Mesa Verde National Park, explore the Far View Sites Trail for breathtaking scenery and outdoor adventure. The Soda Canyon Overlook Trail offers stunning vistas, perfect for hiking enthusiasts. For a thrilling experience, trek along the Knife Edge Trail, where you’ll enjoy the park’s natural beauty and adventure vibes.

Nightlife

While Mesa Verde National Park is known for its stunning daytime views, the nightlife is more subdued. Consider stargazing at the park's overlooks or enjoying a cozy campfire at the campground. For dining, nearby Cortez offers local restaurants like the Wooden Nickel, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.

Find the best attractions in Mesa Verde National Park

Mesa Verde National Park offers a fantastic blend of outdoor adventure, stunning scenery, and rich cultural experiences. Visitors can explore fascinating archaeological sites, ancient ruins, and the park's beautiful landscapes, making it an ideal destination for those seeking adventure and history. Don't miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in the unique heritage of the area while enjoying the breathtaking views and recreational activities available in and around the park.

• Cliff Palace: An iconic archaeological site, Cliff Palace showcases the remarkable ingenuity of the Ancestral Puebloans. Nestled in a cliff alcove, this impressive structure offers a glimpse into the lives of its ancient inhabitants, with stunning stone masonry and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, making it a cultural treasure.
• Balcony House: This fascinating ruin allows visitors to experience ancient architecture up close, featuring well-preserved cliff dwellings. A guided tour through Balcony House includes a thrilling climb through narrow passages and ladders, immersing you in the rich history and cultural significance of the site.
• Park Point: As the highest point in Mesa Verde, Park Point provides panoramic views of the breathtaking scenery, making it perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails that wind through diverse landscapes and take in the stunning vistas of the park's unique geological formations.

Best time to go to Mesa Verde National Park

The best time to visit Mesa Verde National Park can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Mesa Verde National Park falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature in Mesa Verde National Park falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with no rain.

Tips to save on your trip to Mesa Verde National Park

• Take advantage of package deals on Expedia and combine flights, hotels, or car rentals for a convenient and cost-effective trip to Mesa Verde National Park.
• Consider traveling to Mesa Verde National Park during the low season (January to February and November) for more affordable options.
• Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
• Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time to go to Mesa Verde National Park?

The best time to go to Mesa Verde National Park for a comfortable vacation package experience is typically during late spring (May to early June) and early fall (September to October). These months offer milder temperatures, making it ideal for exploring the cliff dwellings and hiking trails without the intense heat of summer.


While summer (from July to August) is popular, temperatures can reach into the 90s °F, with afternoon thunderstorms common. Evenings are cooler, averaging in the 50s °F. Winter months are generally mild, with average temperatures in the 40s°F, though snow is possible from October through May. Guided tours for popular sites like Cliff Palace tend to fill up quickly, especially in summer, so booking your Mesa Verde National Park vacation package in advance is recommended.

How can I save money on a Mesa Verde National Park vacation package?

When you bundle, you can save up to 30%*. To save money on a Mesa Verde National Park package, consider traveling during the quieter months or be flexible with your dates to find more options. Bundling your flights and hotel together often unlocks savings compared to booking separately. *Members only. Savings vary.

What's included in a Mesa Verde National Park vacation package?

A Mesa Verde National Park vacation package lets you combine round-trip flights, hotel stays, and rental cars. Flights typically arrive at Durango, CO (DRO-La Plata County), which is about 41 miles from the park.


Exactly what's included will vary by hotel and package, so it's worth reviewing the details before you confirm your booking.

What's the best vacation package for Mesa Verde National Park?

For a Mesa Verde National Park vacation package, the Far View Lodge offers a convenient stay. Located about 2 miles from central Mesa Verde National Park and about 7 miles from the Mesa Verde National Park Entrance, this lodge features a restaurant and kitchen amenities, and it is pet friendly. Travelers often praise its fantastic location and helpful staff, noting the generously sized rooms and the variety of food options.

What are the top things to do in Mesa Verde National Park?

A Mesa Verde National Park vacation can focus on exploring ancient cliff dwellings and scenic overlooks, offering a unique blend of history and natural beauty:


Browse and book things to do in Mesa Verde National Park on Expedia.

Do you need to rent a car in Mesa Verde National Park, or is public transport enough?

For a Mesa Verde National Park vacation package, private transportation, such as a rental car, is generally necessary to explore the park effectively. The park's roads are steep, narrow, and winding, and attractions are spread out, making a car essential for flexibility and convenience.


The only public transit available within the park is a tram service on Wetherill Mesa, which operates seasonally from Memorial Day to Labor Day. This tram services an area otherwise inaccessible to automobiles. For all other areas and to fully experience your Mesa Verde National Park vacation, a car provides the best way to navigate the park's unique landscape and reach various sites. Keep in mind that trailers and towed vehicles are restricted beyond Morefield Campground.

Are Mesa Verde National Park vacation package hotels conveniently located?

Hotels for a Mesa Verde National Park vacation package are typically located within or very close to the park boundaries, offering convenient access to its attractions. For example, Far View Lodge is situated about 2 miles from central Mesa Verde National Park and about 7 miles from the Mesa Verde National Park Entrance.


Staying within the park allows travelers to minimize travel time to the cliff dwellings and scenic overlooks, making it easier to explore the park's extensive archaeological sites.

Can I change or cancel my Mesa Verde National Park vacation package if my plans change?

Yes, you can cancel your vacation package via your itinerary page on Expedia or by contacting customer service. Remember that some packages are fully refundable, but the details vary based on each unique booking. A fully refundable package may depend on how far out from the travel dates you're canceling and what airline you are traveling with.

Do One Key members get extra savings when booking Mesa Verde National Park vacation packages?

Yes, members who join our free One Key™ travel rewards program can instantly unlock additional savings and save 10% or more on over 500,000 stays worldwide with Member Prices and over 1 million car rentals.

Does Expedia offer Book Now, Pay Later Mesa Verde National Park vacation packages?

Yes, with Expedia's Book Now, Pay Later option, powered by Affirm, you can spread the cost of your Mesa Verde National Park vacation over 3, 6, or 12 months. With no late payment fees or hidden costs, it's easy to secure your ideal vacation package as soon as you spot it.

How do I find last-minute vacation packages to Mesa Verde National Park?

To find last-minute vacation packages to Mesa Verde National Park, explore the last-minute deals section for the latest package offers, including flights, departing in the coming weeks. Being flexible with your travel dates and hotel preferences can help you secure the best prices.

How does free cancellation work on Mesa Verde National Park vacation packages?

Free cancellation on a Mesa Verde National Park vacation package depends on the specific hotel and rate combination you book. Many bookings allow free cancellation up to a stated deadline (often a few days before travel) where eligible. Read the cancellation terms carefully when reviewing the package, and visit Expedia help center for further details.

Is it cheaper to book a Mesa Verde National Park vacation as a package or separately?

Booking flights and hotels together can unlock lower overall prices. Better still, you can tailor your Mesa Verde National Park getaway to match your exact preference. Pick your preferred flight time, select the hotel type and add a car rental. Explore our bundles to see how much you can save.

Why should I book my Mesa Verde National Park vacation package with Expedia?

Booking your vacation package on Expedia makes it easier to get more out of your trip from the start. With a wide choice of hotels, you can compare prices, reviews and amenities all in one place, then bundle your hotel with flights which could help you save even more. Flexible booking options on selected stays also make it easier to plan with confidence.

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