Snowshoeing at Mesa Verde National Park

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The cliff dwellings of Mesa Verde were home to ancestral Pueblo Indian people. Today, visitors come from all over the world to explore the archaeology preserved sites at Mesa Verde National Park. While the park is known to attract a multitude of tourists during the summer season, it reveals a different, serene charm during winter months. With mid-February traditionally being the peak period for snowshoeing, the park shows an unexpected and quiet side.
In the last years fewer than 50 people visited the park during its most tranquil off-season days. After the fall season when the ranger-guided tours come to a halt, the park takes on a more solitary character. This allows you to take in the stunning scenery and experience a sense of peace and tranquility amidst the architectural wonders left by the ancient Puebloan people.

In January and February, the park hosts events including a moonlight ski and snowshoe at the Morefield Campground. Some years the snow is extremely high, other years events get cancelled because of the lack of snow.

Where to stay

If you are looking for a place to stay we recommend the Canyon of the Ancient Guest Ranch. This is a working ranch with cattle, sheep, dogs and a cat. You will fall in love with the peace and quiet and the surrounding beauty.


This is the best place you will ever stay. The hosts are so accommodating and make you feel like family. On booking.com they get an exceptional rating of 9.8.

How to get there

Under a blanket of snow, Mesa Verde feels very far from the modern world. If you go: The park entrance is 10 miles east of Cortez on US Highway 160.