Bus2Train

Red River to Mesa Verde National Park

Updated: March 14, 2024 10:25 AM
Mesa Verde National Park

Red River to Mesa Verde National Park

Language

The official language of the United States is English. However, Spanish is also widely spoken, especially in the southwestern states. Mesa Verde National Park is located in southwestern Colorado, so you may hear Spanish spoken there as well.

Currency

The currency of the United States is the US dollar ($). Credit cards and debit cards are widely accepted, but it's always a good idea to carry some cash as well.

Distance

The distance from Red River, New Mexico to Mesa Verde National Park is approximately 150 miles (240 kilometers). The drive takes about 3 hours and 30 minutes.

How to Reach

There are two main ways to get from Red River to Mesa Verde National Park:

  • By car: The most convenient way to get to Mesa Verde National Park is by car. You can either rent a car or drive your own. The drive takes about 3 hours and 30 minutes.
  • By public transportation: There is no public transportation that goes directly from Red River to Mesa Verde National Park. However, you can take a bus from Red River to Durango, Colorado, and then transfer to a shuttle bus that goes to the park. The total travel time is about 5 hours.

Expenses

The cost of getting to and staying in Mesa Verde National Park will vary depending on your travel style. However, you can expect to spend around $100 per day on average.

Here is a breakdown of some of the costs you may incur:

  • Park entrance fee: $30 per vehicle
  • Camping: $20 per night
  • Food: $20 per day
  • Gas: $50 per day

Best time to go

The best time to visit Mesa Verde National Park is in the spring or fall. The weather is mild during these seasons, and the crowds are smaller. However, the park is open year-round, so you can visit it at any time of year.

What to Eat

There are several restaurants located in and around Mesa Verde National Park. You can find everything from burgers and fries to fine dining. However, if you're looking for a truly authentic experience, you should try some of the local Native American cuisine.

Here are some of the most popular Native American dishes:

  • Fry bread: A fried dough that can be served with a variety of toppings, such as honey, cinnamon, or meat.
  • Indian tacos: A fry bread taco filled with meat, beans, cheese, and lettuce.
  • Navajo stew: A hearty stew made with mutton, vegetables, and spices.

Where to Go

Mesa Verde National Park is home to a variety of archaeological sites, including cliff dwellings, pueblos, and petroglyphs. The most popular sites include:

  • Cliff Palace: The largest cliff dwelling in North America, with over 150 rooms.
  • Balcony House: A well-preserved cliff dwelling that offers stunning views of the canyon.
  • Spruce Tree House: A smaller cliff dwelling that is accessible by a ladder.
  • Far View Sites: A series of overlooks that offer panoramic views of the park.

FAQ

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about Mesa Verde National Park:

  • Is Mesa Verde National Park worth visiting? Yes, Mesa Verde National Park is definitely worth visiting. It is home to some of the most well-preserved cliff dwellings in North America.
  • How long does it take to see Mesa Verde National Park? You can see the highlights of Mesa Verde National Park in one day. However, if you want to explore the park in more depth, you should plan on spending two or three days.
  • Is Mesa Verde National Park kid-friendly? Yes, Mesa Verde National Park is kid-friendly. There are several ranger-led programs and activities that are designed for children.

*Distance calculation may be aerial distance.

Trips from Red River


  • Gallup
    Red River to Gallup

    This guide will provide you with all the information you need to plan your trip from Red River to Gallup, including: The official language of both Red Rive..

  • Los Alamos
    Red River to Los Alamos

    The official language of both Red River and Los Alamos is English. The official currency of both Red River and Los Alamos is the US dollar ($). The distanc..

  • Canyon de Chelly National Monument
    Red River to Canyon de Chelly National Monument

    Canyon de Chelly National Monument is a stunning natural wonder located in the Navajo Nation in Arizona. The monument is home to towering sandstone cliffs,..

  • Bandelier National Monument
    Red River to Bandelier National Monument

    The official language of New Mexico is English. The official currency of New Mexico is the US dollar. The distance from Red River to Bandelier National Mon..

  • Chama
    Red River to Chama

    The official language of Red River and Chama is English. The official currency of Red River and Chama is the US dollar ($). The distance between Red River ..

  • Abiquiu
    Red River to Abiquiu

    The official language of Red River and Abiquiu is English. The official currency of Red River and Abiquiu is the US dollar ($). The distance between Red Ri..

  • College Station
    Red River to College Station

    The official language of College Station is English. The official currency of College Station is the US dollar ($). The distance between Red River and Coll..

  • Grand Canyon National Park
    Red River to Grand Canyon National Park

    The Grand Canyon is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States. Red River, New Mexico is a small to..

  • Albuquerque
    Red River to Albuquerque

    Planning a trip from Red River to Albuquerque? Here's a comprehensive guide to help you plan your journey seamlessly. Both Red River and Albuquerque are lo..

Trips to Mesa Verde National Park