National dog park pet policy info.

Mesa Verde National Park

Located in the state of Colorado

This area constitutes over 4,000 archaeological sites of the Ancestral Puebloanpeople, who lived here and elsewhere in the Four Corners region for at least 700 years. Cliff dwellings built in the 12th and 13th centuries include Cliff Palace, which has 150 rooms and 23 kivas, and the Balcony House, with its many passages and tunnels.

  • Some Trails: Wetherill Mesa when it is open in the spring, summer, and fall. Pet-friendly trails are marked and include the 5-mile Long House Loop. Please check signs at trailsheads before taking your pet on any trail.
  • Parking areas and along paved roads.
  • Some campgrounds.
  • Some picnic areas.
  • Must be restrained or kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet at all times.
  • Dogs must wear a collar with current tags at all times.
  • Pick up after your dog at all times – Leave no trace.

*Please see more details for leash info

  • Inside buildings (unless service animal)
  • Shuttle buses (unless service animal)
  • Most trails or backcountry.
  • Archeological sites/li>
  • Never leave your pet unattended or alone inside a vehicle.
  • Never off leash – unless inside a vehicle, tent, dog crate or other portable kennel.
  • Untagged dogs or dogs with uncurrent tags.
  • Excessive barking.

*Please see more details for leash info

  • Extreme range of weather
  • Extreme hot and cold weather
  • Venomous Snakes
  • Poisonous Plants
  • Spiny and prickly plants
  • Predatory animals
  • Be aware of animal traps and hunting areas
  • Swim safely, extreme water areas
  • Ticks and biting insects
  • Do not drink from waterways
  • Bring plenty of drinking water

Leash Laws: Most parks require dogs to be on a leash in some or all areas, however, some parks allow dogs off leash in certain locations, please consult the parks website before going off leash, Thank you!

  • Consult the park website before traveling all information is to be used as a guide.
  • Respect local wildlife.
  • Leave no trace – What you bring in, you bring out.
  • If you are visiting during the hottest months of the year, a “palm test” is recommended before walking your dog – place your hand on the pavement for a minute and see if it is comfortable there. If the pavement feels hot to your palm, it will be hot to your dog’s paws.

(970) 529-4465

Mesa Verde National Park Website

Mesa Verde National Park Camping

Mesa Verde National Park Hiking

Mesa Verde National Park Volunteer

We do our best to keep all information current and accurate - If you see an error or think we have missed something please contact us directly.

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One Comment:

  • Madero says:

    I just wanted to leave some details that others may find useful. We spent a day at the park, and it needs lots of switchback driving. However, it’s balanced with lovely hikes and walks. We are in our 50s, and here’s our agenda, which was suitable for us (we also learned and experienced a lot outa formal tour.

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    We do our best to keep all information current and accurate - If you see an error or think we have missed something please contact us directly.

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