Solar eclipse (2023) at Mesa Verde National Park: Where to view, camp

An annular eclipse, as seen in 2012. Differing from a total solar eclipse, the moon in an annular eclipse appears too small to cover the sun completely, leaving a ring of fire effect around the moon. (JAXA/NASA/Hinode via Getty Images)

NASA personnel will soon be in Colorado for a celestial event that hasn’t been visible from North America in more than a decade.

On Oct. 14, Mesa Verde National Park in Southwest Colorado will be almost directly in line with the annular solar eclipse. During this type of event, the moon comes between the Earth and the sun and blocks most of the light.

Because the moon will be at one of its furthest points away from the Earth, the moon will appear smaller than the sun and not block its light completely. Instead, the moon will appear as a black dot surrounded by what’s called a “ring of fire.”

It’s a stunning sight – one that can only be viewed safely with the aid of protective eyewear, according to NASA. That’s why Mesa Verde is expecting robust crowds during the otherwise sleepy shoulder season.

“This event might be pretty huge compared to an average October day,” said Eric Sainio, supervisory park ranger at Mesa Verde. “NASA has told us that in former annual eclipses, they’ve seen crowds something like a busy summer day plus 50%. For us, that might mean around 6,000 people.”

The last time an annular solar eclipse was visible from North America was in 2012. Here’s what you need to know if you’re thinking about making the trek to Mesa Verde to witness the event.

Note: These details may be affected by the federal government shutdown. Visit nps.gov for the latest information about park closures.

When the eclipse happens

Starting at about 9:11 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 14, the moon will begin passing between the Earth and the sun, causing a partial eclipse. It’s expected to reach peak coverage – or 90% “annularity” – from 10:31 a.m. to about 10:34 a.m., Sainio said.

While Mesa Verde is technically accessible 24 hours a day, some areas close overnight. Sainio expects gates will open fully around 7 a.m. to accommodate eclipse watchers.

Where to watch the eclipse

Mesa Verde plans to have three viewing areas throughout the park where rangers will hand out protective glasses for guests. The park will also have tents covered with solar mylar for individuals who are not comfortable wearing glasses.

Viewing areas will be located at the Chapin Mesa Museum, the Far View Parking Lot, and the Morefield Campground Amphitheater.

Sainio advised choosing your route and viewing destination in advance to adequately prepare and have ample time for parking. Because the park will likely be crowded, there may be traffic that affects the drive time.

“The deeper you go into the park, the more time it’s going to take to get there,” he said. “For instance, if you’re planning on being near the museum for the eclipse, that’s awesome and that could be really fun for you. Keep in mind with traffic that day – where it’s a drive that might take you 40 minutes or so – it may take you more like twice that time depending on traffic. “

NASA representatives will also be at the three aforementioned locations within the park sharing educational information about the eclipse. On the evenings of Oct. 13 and 14, NASA will host presentations at the Morefield Amphitheater followed by two “star parties” with telescopes and other astronomical fun.

How much does it cost to see the eclipse

Standard entry fees to Mesa Verde National Park apply. Day entry costs $25 per motorcycle, $30 per car or $55 for an annual pass.

Where to camp

Mesa Verde boasts one campground within the park and one lodge. Both are currently sold out on reservations.

Elsewhere outside the park, dispersed camping is permitted in the nearby San Juan National Forest and in the Bureau of Land Management’s jurisdiction. Sainio also suggests checking availability at Mancos State Park and local campgrounds and RV parks near Cortez and Dolores.

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