I want to drive from Denver Colorado to Chaco Canyon, in northern New Mexico. I'd like to know how the route is, mountainous or a flat, and whether or not driving there in late October we are likely to encounter snow. Thanks very much for any help you can give.

You can take I 25 south and then NM SR 550. The Raton Pass would be the only
place you might have an issue. Whether or not there will be snow is anyone's guess.

The road from 550 to Chaco can be rough, rutted, washboard like as its a dirt road. If it is wet (snow or rain) it can be difficult -- a 4 wheel drive is highly recommended regardless but for sure if there's been precipitation. Oh, the road in is pretty long and takes awhile due to condition of road.

Thanks, DebitNM

Facilities are limited in the park, please read the information given on its official site regarding accommodations, availability of fuel, etc.

https://www.nps.gov/chcu/planyourvisit/index.htm

I'll ditto what the pervious posters have said and add that if you are not planning to camp, the closest lodging we've found is in Bloomfield, NM. It is about a half hour north of the road that goes from 550 in to the park. We've like the Best Western Territorial there, pretty good breakfast buffet included in price.

The gravel road in has a section that is 10 or 15 miles unpaved and if it hasn't been recently graded can be very rough. If it has been wet, I would not attempt it and if there is water running through a low point, do not try to cross.