Farmington serves as a gateway to a variety of desert sites, adventures, and activities. As a hub for exploration, Farmington provides access to national parks, hosts exciting events like the Road Apple Rally, and offers excursions such as water sports and mountain biking. For those eager to explore Farmington’s activities and who have a passion for history, geology and the great outdoors, a trip across the New Mexico-Colorado border to visit Mesa Verde National Park is a must.
This iconic park features hiking trails, scenic drives, and tours of historic Puebloan ruins. As a unique and popular destination, we’ll provide information and tips on how to best experience Mesa Verde, including visiting the cliff dwellings, which require advance reservations. These well-preserved ancient ruins make for an excellent day trip from Farmington.
Things to Do in Mesa Verde National Park
Visit the Ancient Puebloan Cliff Dwellings
Visiting Mesa Verde National Park is not complete without exploring the ancient Puebloan cliff dwellings. The Balcony House and Cliff Palace are two of the park’s main sites. While these can be admired from a distance through self-guided tours, an up-close experience requires a one-hour, ranger-guided tour that must be booked in advance. These cliff dwellings are the park's main attractions, but with over 5,000 archaeological sites, Mesa Verde is regarded as the most notable and best-preserved archaeological landmark in the United States.
As a historic and popular destination, there are a few important tips for visiting the cliff dwellings. Cell service in the area is spotty, so it’s best to download maps ahead of time and avoid relying on making calls or sending texts during your visit. The area is also exposed to the elements and can get very hot depending on the season. As with any desert excursion, be sure to bring plenty of water. Remember, tour reservations are required to access the cliff dwellings, so making your reservation is essential.
Hiking
Mesa Verde National Park, renowned for its archaeological significance, offers a quieter alternative to more crowded parks, attracting around 500,000 visitors annually. This allows for a more serene experience of the Southwest's beauty and history. The park features three exceptional hiking trails that highlight its diverse topography, geography, and archaeology.
1. Petroglyph Point Trail is a 2.7-mile loop with a 429-foot elevation gain. Along this trail, hikers can view a large petroglyph panel. Be prepared for a brief scramble up a stone staircase during the hike.
2. Point Lookout Trail is ideal for those seeking expansive views of the park and the San Juan and La Plata Mountains. This 2.1-mile out-and-back trail has a 538-foot elevation gain and typically takes about 1 hour and 10 minutes to complete.
3. For an easier option, the Soda Canyon Overlook Trail is just 1.2 miles round trip with a minimal elevation gain of 59 feet. This short but stunning walk provides distant views of the Balcony House. However, there is very little shade along the trail, so hikers should come prepared with sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water.
To ensure an enjoyable experience for everyone on these trails, please keep a couple key tips in mind:
- Drone use is prohibited in all national parks, including Mesa Verde, so please respect this rule and leave drones at home.
- The park sits at a high elevation of around 7,000 feet, and even fit individuals can be affected by the altitude. Take your time and allow your body to acclimate to the elevation.
Mesa Verde National Park Scenic Drive
The 15-mile scenic drive is a great way to take in multiple perspectives of the park. Starting at the visitor center, the route includes several handicap-accessible viewpoints and offers stunning views of Montezuma Valley.
Due to spotty cell service, it's recommended to download maps ahead of time. Water is scarce along the route, so be sure to bring enough with you. If you plan to camp after the drive, keep in mind that camping options within the park are limited, so having a backup plan is a smart choice.
Preparing for Your Trip to Mesa Verde National Park
To make the most of a trip to Mesa Verde, a bit of preparation goes a long way. Like all national parks, Mesa Verde requires a pass for entry. The standard pass costs $30 and is valid for a single visit. For those planning to explore multiple parks, the America the Beautiful Pass is a great option—it costs $80 and grants access to all 63 national parks and federal recreation sites for a full year. Annual and lifetime senior passes are also available. U.S. military members and residents with permanent disabilities can enter the park for free, but remember to bring the appropriate identification.
If you’re planning professional filming or an organized activity, a special permit is required. Since cell service is spotty to non-existent, download the park map ahead of time or pick one up at the visitor center upon arrival. If you're staying in Farmington, stop by and visit us before your day trip! Our team is ready to share insider knowledge and tips to help you explore Mesa Verde like a local.
Other Day Trips from Farmington
Other culturally significant day trips from Farmington are must-sees for those exploring the area. One of the top destinations is Chaco Culture National Historical Park, also known as Chaco Canyon. It's the largest excavated prehistoric ruin in North America, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in archaeology. Note that roads can close during bad weather, so it's best to call the park in advance to check conditions.
Another great option for history enthusiasts is the Aztec Ruins National Monument. This site showcases ceremonial, public, and storage structures built by the ancient Pueblo people around 1100 and includes the "Great Kiva," North America's oldest and largest reconstructed kiva.
For archaeology lovers, the Salmon Ruins is a third day-trip option. It features a cultural museum, Heritage Park, and the Journey Into the Past Tours. Be sure to make time for the San Juan County Archaeological Research Center & Library while you're there.
Make Farmington, NM, a Stop on Your National Parks Road Trip
Although Mesa Verde is located just across the New Mexico-Colorado border, it’s only 69 miles (about a 1-hour and 15-minute drive) from Farmington, making the town an ideal base for exploring the park and other cultural hubs in the area. With only one campsite in Mesa Verde National Park that fills up quickly, staying in Farmington offers visitors a variety of lodging options, including hotels, campgrounds, and more. While in town, enjoy Farmington’s dining and shopping scene. After a day on the trail, unwind at Lauter Haus Brewing Company or enjoy a meal at Clancy’s Irish Cantina.
With its close proximity, Farmington is the perfect base for archaeological explorations. After a day of hiking or exploring ancient ruins, return to town to enjoy Farmington's vibrant dining, shopping, and comfortable accommodations. Whether you’re staying for a night or using it as a launchpad for your next adventure, Farmington adds a memorable touch to your trip.