Here are some tips on how to plan a trip to Mesa Verde National Park:

1. Choose the right time of year. The best time to visit Mesa Verde is during the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and there are fewer crowds. The summer can be hot and crowded, and the winter can be cold and snowy.
2. Book your accommodations in advance. There are a number of hotels, motels, and campgrounds in the area, but they can fill up quickly, especially during the peak season.
3. Get a park pass. A park pass is required for entry into Mesa Verde National Park. You can purchase a pass at the park entrance or online.
4. Take a ranger-led tour. Ranger-led tours are a great way to learn about the history and culture of Mesa Verde. Tours are available for most of the major cliff dwellings.
5. Explore the backcountry. Mesa Verde National Park has over 300 miles of hiking trails. Hiking is a great way to see the park’s natural beauty and to get away from the crowds.
6. Visit the museum. The Mesa Verde Museum has exhibits on the history and culture of the Ancestral Puebloans. The museum is located in the park’s headquarters, which is located on Chapin Mesa.
7. Take a side trip. There are a number of interesting places to visit near Mesa Verde National Park. These include the Four Corners Monument, the Ute Mountain Indian Reservation, and the town of Cortez.
8. Be respectful of the environment. Mesa Verde is a fragile ecosystem. Please be respectful of the environment by staying on the trails, not picking flowers, and packing out your trash.