So You Want to Hike Through Time (and Mesa Verde)?
Let's be honest, who wouldn't want to explore the cliff dwellings of Mesa Verde National Park? These ancient Ancestral Puebloan villages perched high in the mesas are pretty darn cool. Imagine peeking into the past and seeing how people lived centuries ago. You might even get a glimpse of a fuzzy sandal or two (hey, gotta be fashionable even in the 12th century). But if you're planning a trip from Denver, you might be wondering: just how far is Mesa Verde?
Well, buckle up, history buff, because we're about to embark on a whirlwind tour (via the magic of the internet, not an actual time machine) to uncover this geographical mystery.
Calling all cartographers (or just folks who like maps)!
We've got some good news and some potentially not-so-good news (depending on your love for road trips). Mesa Verde National Park is nestled in southwestern Colorado, roughly 382.7 miles southwest of Denver. That translates to about a 7 hour and 54-minute drive.
Here's the not-so-bad news: the drive is pretty darn scenic! You'll be cruising through the Rocky Mountains, so pack your camera (and maybe a selfie stick, because let's be real, everyone loves a good mountain selfie).
Tip: Reread slowly for better memory.
But Wait, There's More! (Travel Options That Don't Involve Your Car)
Maybe you're not a huge fan of car rides (or your singing voice isn't quite ready for a captive audience). Fear not, intrepid explorer! Here are a couple of other ways to get to Mesa Verde:
- Catch a plane: There are regional airports near Mesa Verde, such as Durango-La Plata County Airport ( Durango) and Cortez Municipal Airport (Cortez). You'll likely need to rent a car to get to the park itself, but hey, small price to pay to avoid belting out show tunes for 8 hours.
- Bus it: While a less common option, there are some bus tours that offer multi-day adventures to Mesa Verde, sometimes combined with other National Parks in the area.
How to Get the Most Out of Your Mesa Verde Cliff Dwelling Adventure
Now that you know the distance and your travel options, here are some tips to make your Mesa Verde cliff dwelling adventure unforgettable:
Tip: Reread complex ideas to fully understand them.
- Book your tours in advance. Especially during peak season, cliff dwelling tours can fill up fast.
- Be prepared for the weather. The weather in Mesa Verde can vary depending on the season, so pack accordingly.
- Bring your hiking shoes. There are some great trails in the park that offer stunning views of the cliff dwellings.
- Don't forget your camera! You'll want to capture all the memories (and those obligatory selfie moments).
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| How Far Is Mesa Verde Cliff Dwellings From Denver |
Frequently Asked Traveler Questions:
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How long does it take to get to Mesa Verde from Denver by car?
Allow for roughly 7 hours and 54 minutes, but don't forget to factor in meal breaks and traffic!
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Are there any tours of the cliff dwellings?
Yes, there are ranger-led tours and self-guided tours available. Be sure to book ranger-led tours in advance, especially during peak season.
Can I hike to the cliff dwellings?
There are some trails that lead to the cliff dwellings, but some dwellings can only be accessed by ranger-led tours.
Tip: Reread if it feels confusing.
What is the best time of year to visit Mesa Verde?
The park is open year-round, but the best weather is generally from spring to fall.
What else is there to do in the area?
There are plenty of other things to see and do in the area, including hiking, biking, and exploring other historical sites.
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