Introduction

Ever wondered what Mesa Verde National Park looks like under a blanket of snow? From November to March, this Ancestral Puebloan site transforms into a serene winter wonderland.

Sure, some areas close up shop, but don't let that stop you! There are still plenty of unique experiences waiting for you in this off-season paradise.

So bundle up, step into some winter boots, and let's explore what makes a winter visit to Mesa Verde so special!

Things To Do in Mesa Verde During Winter

1. Warm Up at Chapin Mesa Archeological Museum

Rachel Ennis

First stop: Chapin Mesa Archeological Museum.

Open year-round, this cozy refuge is the perfect place to warm up and geek out on Mesa Verde’s rich history. Step inside and dive into the world of the Ancestral Puebloans through artifacts, detailed dioramas, and exhibits that bring the past to life.

It’s the ideal launchpad for your winter adventure—and a chance to find out why this place is so much more than just stone walls and scenic views.

Idea for activity: Pick up one of their for-sale pocket bird guides. Even in winter, you can spy quite a few species!

2. Cruise the Mesa Top Loop Road

Rachel Ennis

Weather permitting (cross your fingers!), the 6-mile Mesa Top Loop Road often stays open during winter.

This scenic drive is like a greatest hits sample tour of Mesa Verde's snowscape.You’ll pass Sun Temple, then roll up to Square Tower House Overlook, where you can spot the park’s tallest cliff dwelling. From there, Sun Point View delivers panoramic views of Cliff Palace, Oak Tree House, and Fire Temple—all tucked into frosty alcoves.

Just know that things can get icy, so it’s best to come with either snow tires or a 4-WD vehicle.

3. Hike the Spruce Canyon Trail

Rachel Ennis

Calling all winter hiking enthusiasts!  Grab your ear muffs, scarves, and snow-proof boots. Because the 2.4-mile Spruce Canyon Trail is (usually) open year-round!

The loop begins just behind the Chapin Mesa Museum and descends into a sheltered canyon carved by seasonal runoff. You’ll pass through piñon, juniper, and Douglas fir, and if you’re lucky, you might spot mule deer or fresh fox tracks in the snow.

Snow-draped trees, crisp air, and that peaceful winter quiet? It's like walking through a real-life snow globe!

Just remember to pack those trekking poles—things can get a bit slippery out there!

4. Channel Your Inner Olympian with Cross-Country Skiing or Snowshoeing

Jaron Mobley

When the snow’s just right, Morefield Campground and Chapin Mesa transform into a winter sports playground.

The park offers both groomed and ungroomed trails, most of which wind through open meadows and gentle slopes—perfect for beginner or intermediate-level cross-country skiing or snowshoeing.

While many cliff dwellings are closed in winter, you can usually ski or snowshoe right to sites like the Far View Sites (including Pipe Shrine House and Far View Reservoir), the Cliff Palace Trail, and other mesa-top overlooks.

RELATED: Must-Go Hikes and Trails in Mesa Verde National Park

5. Go on a Winter Wildlife Safari

Phil Venditti

Winter in Mesa Verde is prime time for wildlife spotting. With fewer humans around, the local residents—mule deer, coyotes, and a whole bunch of bird species—are more likely to make an appearance.

Bring those binoculars and keep your eyes peeled. Just remember, we're guests in their home, so let's keep a respectful distance, okay?

6. Join a Ranger-Led Winter Adventure

The park often offers special ranger-led programs during winter, including guided walks and ski events.

Check in at the visitor center when you arrive—you won't want to miss these cool experiences!

7. Capture Mesa Verde's Winter Magic

NPS/Sandy Groves

Calling all photographers! Winter in Mesa Verde is extraordinary. Snow-capped mesas, icicle-adorned cliff dwellings, and that soft winter light? It's a photographer's dream come true.

Plus, the potential for dramatic weather means you might just snap that once-in-a-lifetime shot. So grab your fuzzy coat, set up the tripod, and get cozy—you might be here a while.

8. Take Shaka Guide’s Driving Tour

Shaka Guide’s tour of Mesa Verde National Park works any time of year! We’re happy to share the winter wonderland with you and keep you company with our directions and stories.

Before you leave, we recommend checking to see what roads are still open. You can look at the Mesa Verde website, and it’s also a good idea to check in at a visitor center when you arrive to confirm.

FAQs

What parts of Mesa Verde are closed during winter?

Alright, let's talk closures. During winter, these areas take a little snooze:

• Wetherill Mesa Road is totally closed. This includes Long House, Step House, Kodak House, and Nordenskiöld.
• Cliff dwellings like Long House, Step House, and Balcony House close up for tours.
• Most hiking trails are snowed in, but some are open to hiking, snowshoeing, or skiing. See full list below.
• Morefield Campground says no to camping, but welcomes winter activities.

Remember, Mother Nature calls the shots, so always check the official park website or give the visitor center a ring for the latest updates!

What parts of Mesa Verde are open during winter?

Don't worry, there's still plenty to explore! These spots keep their doors open:

Is it worth going to Mesa Verde in winter?

While it’s true that you won’t get to experience everything the park has to offer, Mesa Verde has a lot of unique experiences to be had in winter. So, is it worth the visit? Absolutely!

Winter in Mesa Verde is like discovering a secret version of the park. There are fewer crowds, snow-covered landscapes that'll make your jaw drop, and key sites still open for business, making it a fun chance to see Mesa Verde in a new light.

Moreover, visiting during winter provides a different glimpse into the life of the Ancestral Puebloan people. It wasn’t all warm weather and sunny skies—winter brought its own challenges!

Does it snow in Mesa Verde?

Mesa Verde gets about 80 inches of snow annually, mostly between November and April. Sure, all this snow closes off some areas, but it also turns the park into a winter wonderland.

Just imagine those ancient structures dusted with fresh powder—it really helps put Ancestral Puebloan life in a new perspective.

Where do I get snowshoes?

Snowshoe rentals are available at the Mesa Verde visitor center and at the museum but must be returned to the visitor center by 3:30 p.m., and to the museum by 2:30 p.m.

Explore Mesa Verde with Shaka Guide

Want to take your winter Mesa Verde adventure to the next level? Grab Shaka Guide's Mesa Verde National Park Tour!

Our GPS-enabled audio guide is like having a fun, knowledgeable friend along for the ride. We'll give you the scoop on the park's history, geology, and all the cool cultural stuff as you explore the areas still open for winter.

Even when the roads are closed, you can listen to the stories of Mesa Verde whenever, wherever you are.

So what are you waiting for? Let's go explore Mesa Verde's winter magic together!

Meet the Writer: Rachel Ennis is a storyteller, nature nerd, and park enthusiast who believes every trail has a tale. Back in 2023, Mesa Verde captured her imagination with its quiet alcoves, ancient architecture, and the feeling that history still echoes in the stone. That inspiration sparked what she considers one of her finest Shaka Guide tours—crafted, of course, with a lot of help from her friends. Today, she’s continuing on her mission to share the stories that live in the land and the spaces that make us feel small in the best way.

Ready to take the tour? Check out Shaka Guide's Mount Mesa Verde Park Tour!

We hope that we’ve given you all the information you need to make the most of your day. Your vacation is extremely important to us so if you have any questions feel free to reach out at aloha@shakaguide.com.

For more detailed information to help you plan, check out our Mesa Verde National Park Itinerary and Know Before You Go article.

Like this article? Share it on Pinterest!

RELATED ARTICLES:

Must-Go Hikes and Trails in Mesa Verde National Park