Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado, United States of America: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2022]
Traveling to Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado, United States of America? If you're planning to go to Mesa Verde National Park, here is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Mesa Verde National Park
- Important essentials for Mesa Verde National Park
- Activities for Mesa Verde National Park
- Mesa Verde National Park in January: weather and what to pack
- Mesa Verde National Park in February: weather and what to pack
- Mesa Verde National Park in March: weather and what to pack
- Mesa Verde National Park in April: weather and what to pack
- Mesa Verde National Park in May: weather and what to pack
- Mesa Verde National Park in June: weather and what to pack
- Mesa Verde National Park in July: weather and what to pack
- Mesa Verde National Park in August: weather and what to pack
- Mesa Verde National Park in September: weather and what to pack
- Mesa Verde National Park in October: weather and what to pack
- Mesa Verde National Park in November: weather and what to pack
- Mesa Verde National Park in December: weather and what to pack

About your travel guide
Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.
When to go to Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado, United States of America
Based on the climate and weather in Mesa Verde National Park, the best time to go is June. See below for details.
Important essentials for Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado, United States of America
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Mesa Verde National Park, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
COVID-19 ESSENTIALS FOR 2022
Travel insurance
If you or a companion get COVID-19, your amazing trip can be ruined. Good travel insurance can help. See plans
-
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
-
N95 masks to use in crowded airports
These N95 masks provide the best level of COVID-19 protection possible.
-
A vaccine card protector
Vaccine cards often get worn. An unreadable vaccine card can have severe consequences. This vaccine card protector helps stop that.
-
Kids' KN95 masks
N95 masks are not available for kids. These are a good alternative (and can also be used by adults if N95 masks are not available).
-
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly product.
General health necessities
Don't forget these
-
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
-
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Mesa Verde National Park. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
-
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. This one should be sufficient for most areas, but you should check with your hotel.
-
For families with young children
-
Airplane or car necessities
-
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
What to wear/what to pack for Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado, United States of America by month
Already know when you're traveling?
January
January in Mesa Verde National Park is pretty cool. The rain/snow can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 30s F (single digits C), although night temperatures can dip into the single digits F (10+ below zero C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Scarf/neck warmer
-
Pajamas
-
Fleece inner layer
-
Very heavy heated socks
Like these
-
Extreme cold weather gloves
-
Coveralls/snow pants
Here are some of the best choices:
-
Thermal undergarments
Our choice is:
-
Insulated ice boots
We use:
-
Heavy sweaters
-
Lip balm
The best option: this one
-
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are a great value:
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to regular footwear, you should bring snow boots. For visiting Mesa Verde National Park, a great option is these boots:
-
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
-
A umbrella
This is worth investing in for this weather. This one is a great choice.
-
Ski accessories
Mesa Verde National Park has some great ski slopes If you plan to ski, we would recommend:
- day pack
- mittens (in addition to gloves)
- thermal pants
- lip balm with SPF
- ski socks (at least 2 pairs)
- ...and of course your ski gear
If you go to the Chapin Mesa Archaeological Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Comfy walking shoes
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
February
February in Mesa Verde National Park is brisk. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 20s F (single digits below 0 C). It snows about a third of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Heavy socks
Such as:
-
Heavy jacket
-
Warm pants or jeans
-
Lip balm
Our pick is: this
-
Insulated water bottle
Our best choice:
-
Gloves
-
Sweaters
-
Cold weather footwear
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to day-to-day footwear, you should bring snow boots. For traveling to Mesa Verde National Park, we suggest these boots:
-
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
-
A windproof umbrella
This is worth investing in for this weather. This one is a perfect option.
-
Ski accessories
Mesa Verde National Park has some good ski areas If you plan to ski, we also suggest:
- day pack
- mittens (in addition to gloves)
- thermal pants
- lip balm with SPF
- ski socks (at least 2 pairs)
- ...and of course your ski gear
If you go to the Chapin Mesa Archaeological Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Comfy walking shoes
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
March
March in Mesa Verde National Park is pretty cool. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 20s F (single digits below 0 C). It snows sometimes.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Heavy jacket
-
Heavy socks
Such as:
-
Lip balm
Our favorite option: here
-
Insulated water bottle
Our pick:
-
Warm pants or jeans
-
Sweaters
-
Gloves
-
Cold weather footwear
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to regular footwear, you should bring snow boots. For travel to Mesa Verde National Park, we suggest these boots:
-
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
-
A wind resistant umbrella
This is vital here. This one is a perfect option.
-
Ski accessories
Mesa Verde National Park has some great ski areas If you plan to ski, we also recommend:
- day pack
- mittens (in addition to gloves)
- thermal pants
- lip balm with SPF
- ski socks (at least 2 pairs)
- ...and of course your ski gear
If you go to the Chapin Mesa Archaeological Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Comfy walking shoes
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
April
April in Mesa Verde National Park can be chilly. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 30s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Fleece
-
Jacket or coat
-
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best choice: this one
-
Extra socks
-
Warm pants or jeans
-
Light gloves or mittens
-
Standard footwear
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to standard shoes, it's important to bring snow boots. For travel to Mesa Verde National Park, we suggest these boots:
-
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
-
A umbrella
This is worth investing in for this weather. This one is a perfect choice.
-
Ski accessories
Mesa Verde National Park has some famous ski slopes If you plan to ski, we would recommend:
- day pack
- mittens (in addition to gloves)
- thermal pants
- lip balm with SPF
- ski socks (at least 2 pairs)
- ...and of course your ski gear
If you go to the Chapin Mesa Archaeological Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Comfy walking shoes
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
May
May here is balmy. Temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Long and short sleeve shirts
-
Extra socks
-
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
-
Bug repellent
-
Breathable footwear or sandals
-
Short pants or heavy shorts
-
Sunscreen lotion
-
Light skirts
-
Sandals
-
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These will be a lifesaver in heavy rain.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great option.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases stay dry. We recommend:
If you go to the Chapin Mesa Archaeological Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Comfy walking shoes
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
June
June in Mesa Verde National Park is extremely warm and dry with little rain. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Breathable footwear or sandals
-
Sunscreen lotion
-
Sandals
-
Bug repellent
-
Long and short sleeve shirts
-
Short pants or heavy shorts
-
Extra socks
-
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
-
Light skirts
-
A rain coat to layer with another jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These will be essential in a storm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Windproof umbrella
This one is a perfect choice.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases don't get wet. We like:
If you go to the Chapin Mesa Archaeological Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Comfy walking shoes
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
July
Traveling to Mesa Verde National Park in July, you will notice that it can be very hot. Daytime temperatures are in the high 80s F (low 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Skirts
-
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
-
Bug repellent
-
Sunglasses
-
Breatheable shirts
A breatheable shirt can make you comfortable and guard against skin damage:
-
Loose-fit shorts
-
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite also filters contaminants:
-
Waterproof sandals
-
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses include UV protection and keep you cool.
-
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These will be essential in heavy rain.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Umbrella
This one is an excellent choice.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things remain dry. We like:
If you go to the Chapin Mesa Archaeological Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Comfy walking shoes
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
August
In August, Mesa Verde National Park is extremely warm. Temperatures routinely are in the 80s F (high 20s C) and once in a while jump into the low 90s F (low 30s C) range. At night, lows are in the 50s F (low 10s C). This is also a rainy time for Mesa Verde National Park, with several of the days of the month having rain.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
-
Sunglasses
-
Bug repellent
-
Waterproof sandals
-
Loose-fit shorts
-
Skirts
-
Insulated water bottle
Our first choice also removes contaminants:
-
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and keep you cool.
-
Breatheable shirts
A breatheable shirt can cool you down quickly and protect you from the sun:
-
A rain jacket to layer with another jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
-
Rain pants
Rain pants are a lifesaver in a storm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great choice.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things stay dry. We like:
If you go to the Chapin Mesa Archaeological Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Comfy walking shoes
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
September
If you visit Mesa Verde National Park during September, you are likely to find that it is warm. Temperatures tend to hover around the 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 40s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Sunscreen lotion
-
Light skirts
-
Sandals
-
Breathable footwear or sandals
-
Bug repellent
-
Short pants or heavy shorts
-
Extra socks
-
Long and short sleeve shirts
-
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
-
A rain poncho to layer with a jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
Rain pants are essential in a rainstorm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great choice.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags don't get wet. We like:
If you go to the Chapin Mesa Archaeological Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Comfy walking shoes
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
October
If you are traveling to Mesa Verde National Park in October, you will notice that it is crisp. Daytime temperatures are in the 60s F (high 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best choice: this
-
Jacket or coat
-
Warm pants or jeans
-
Fleece
-
Light gloves or mittens
-
Extra socks
-
Standard footwear
-
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These are essential in a storm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Umbrella
This one is an excellent option.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases remain dry. We like:
If you go to the Chapin Mesa Archaeological Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Comfy walking shoes
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
November
November in this region is pretty cool. Temperatures average in the low 50s F (low 10s C) during the day. It snows sometimes.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Lip balm
Our pick is: this
-
Heavy jacket
-
Insulated water bottle
Our choice:
-
Heavy socks
Such as:
-
Sweaters
-
Gloves
-
Warm pants or jeans
-
Cold weather footwear
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to regular footwear, you should bring snow boots. For travel to Mesa Verde National Park, we suggest these boots:
-
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
-
A umbrella
This is essential in this type of weather. This one is a great option.
-
Ski accessories
Mesa Verde National Park has some excellent ski slopes If you plan to ski, we would suggest:
- day pack
- mittens (in addition to gloves)
- thermal pants
- lip balm with SPF
- ski socks (at least 2 pairs)
- ...and of course your ski gear
If you go to the Chapin Mesa Archaeological Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Comfy walking shoes
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
December
December for Mesa Verde National Park is pretty cool. Temperatures average in the low 40s F (single digits C) during the day. It snows once in a while.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Heavy socks
Such as:
-
Gloves
-
Lip balm
Our favorite option: this one
-
Heavy jacket
-
Warm pants or jeans
-
Insulated water bottle
Our fave:
-
Sweaters
-
Cold weather footwear
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to day-to-day shoes, you should bring snow boots. For traveling to Mesa Verde National Park, a great option is these boots:
-
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
-
A umbrella
This is important here. This one is a great choice.
-
Ski accessories
Mesa Verde National Park has some great ski areas If you plan to ski, we also recommend:
- day pack
- mittens (in addition to gloves)
- thermal pants
- lip balm with SPF
- ski socks (at least 2 pairs)
- ...and of course your ski gear
If you go to the Chapin Mesa Archaeological Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Comfy walking shoes
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Activities for Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado, United States of America
Here are some activity recommendations and activity-specific packing tips for Mesa Verde National Park.
Check out our guides for these other locations: Piha, New Zealand, Gulf Shores, Alabama, United States of America, Mai Khao, Thailand, Bay Harbor, Michigan, United States of America, Rottweil, Germany, DeFuniak Springs, Florida, United States of America, Maafushi, Maldives, Leiden, Netherlands, Looe, England, United Kingdom, Rancagua, Chile, and Kimba, South Australia, Australia.