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Stone dwellings beneath a broad ochre cliff, surrounded by pine trees and snow, overlook a canyon under a blue sky

Park news · Mesa Verde

Mesa Verde in Winter: Bring Enough Water for Your Visit

Drinking water refills are currently limited at Mesa Verde in winter, so we recommend bringing enough water for your entire visit.

By Jocelyn Pion,

If you're planning a winter visit to Mesa Verde, make water part of your preparations. Currently, you can't count on refilling all the water you need at the park. The National Park Service notice addresses drinking water refill availability during the winter season.

As you plan your day, we recommend bringing enough water for your entire visit. Have that supply ready before you arrive at the park. That way, your plans won't depend on finding additional water once you're there.

A backpack and three water bottles on a picnic table overlooking a snowy canyon and dwellings beneath a rock overhang

Add water to your packing list along with everything else you'll need for the day. If you're traveling with others, check that you've packed enough for everyone's needs. We recommend planning for the full length of your visit. The notice doesn't specify an amount that would work for every visitor.

The main takeaway is to plan ahead so you have all the water you'll need. The notice doesn't mean that drinking water is no longer available anywhere in the park. It also doesn't identify a specific place to fill your containers. We therefore recommend that you avoid planning around a refill location you assume will be available.

For help fitting this precaution into your trip preparations, see the Mesa Verde National Park guide. Take care of this practical detail before you leave. With your water packed, you can plan your visit without counting on another refill along the way.