Four Corners Monument!
Four Corners Monument is a unique place in the United States where you can stand in four states at once: New Mexico, Arizona, Colorado, and Utah. It’s the only point in the country where four state boundaries meet. This makes it a special destination for travelers who want to check off a unique experience from their bucket list. In this comprehensive guide, we are thrilled to showcase best things to do in Four Corners Monument to make most of your time worthy.
In this Article
Things to do in Four Corners Monument
Stand in Four States at Once
Visiting Four Corners Monument is a unique experience where you can stand in four states at once: New Mexico, Arizona, Utah, and Colorado. The drive to the monument is scenic, taking you through beautiful desert landscapes. As you approach, the excitement builds knowing you’re about to be in four places at the same time. The monument marks the exact point where the four states meet, perfect for photos. Local vendors sell handmade crafts and souvenirs. A visit to Four Corners Monument is a chance to appreciate the unique geography.
Museum of Navajo Art & Culture
Exploring the Museum of Navajo Art & Culture is a great way to immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of the Navajo people. It’s a stone throw away distance from Four Corners Monument. The drive to the monument offers stunning desert views. Upon arrival, the cultural center welcomes you with vibrant displays and exhibits. Traditional Navajo artwork like paintings, pottery, and woven rugs are showcased beautifully. You can watch artisans at work and even try some crafts yourself. Don’t miss the storytelling sessions that bring Navajo culture to life.
Visit the Gift Shop
Visiting the gift shop at visitor center is a delightful part of your trip. The shop is filled with handmade crafts from local artisans, including jewelry, pottery, and woven rugs. Browsing the shop, you’ll come across traditional Navajo crafts. Books and postcards are also available, perfect for learning more about the region. The atmosphere in the gift shop is welcoming and relaxed, making it a great place to take a break and soak in the local culture. It’s an opportunity to connect with the local culture and take a piece of your experience home with you.
Take Photos of the Surrounding Landscape
Taking photos of the surrounding landscape at Four Corners Monument is a rewarding experience. The monument itself is a fascinating subject. Capture the brass marker that signifies the meeting point of the four states. The surrounding desert landscape offers endless photo opportunities with red rock formations and distant mountains. Early in the morning or late afternoon light enhances the colors and textures of the area. Local flora and fauna add interesting elements to your shots. Don’t forget to take wide-angle shots to capture the expansive views.
Enjoy Scenic Views
Enjoying the scenic views in this area is an unforgettable experience. The red rock formations and distant mountains create a stunning backdrop. The monument itself, with the brass marker highlighting the meeting point of the four states, is perfect for photos. Early morning and late afternoon light enhance the colors and textures of the landscape. Local plants and wildlife add to the beauty of the scenery. The clear skies and wide vistas provide a sense of peace and tranquility. These scenic views offers endless opportunities for a memorable experience.
Learn from Informational Displays
Learning from informational displays is a great way to deepen your understanding of the area. The displays offer a wealth of information about the history and culture of the region. You’ll notice signs that provide context about the unique point where New Mexico, Arizona, Utah, and Colorado meet. The history of the monument and its significance is well-explained. Cultural displays offer insights into the Navajo Nation and other Indigenous tribes. There are also displays about the local flora and fauna, explaining how life has adapted to the desert environment.
Cultural Events and Festivals
Cultural events and festivals offer a unique glimpse into the rich traditions of the area. The Navajo Nation Fair showcases traditional Navajo arts, crafts, and performances. The Four Corners Folk Festival features local and regional music artists. The region also hosts powwows, celebrating Indigenous cultures through dance, music, and storytelling. Summer craft fairs and art shows display local artisans’ work. These events provide a chance to support local artists. Overall, cultural events at Four Corners are a wonderful way to explore the region’s traditions.
Explore Nearby Native American Art and Crafts
Exploring nearby Native American art and crafts offers a unique opportunity to discover traditional art and crafts from the region. Local artisans sell handmade items reflecting the area’s rich culture and history. You’ll find beautiful jewelry, pottery, woven rugs, and other crafts showcasing Native American communities’ skill and creativity. Each piece tells a story, rooted in tradition. Talking to vendors adds a personal touch and deeper appreciation. Many crafts use natural materials, reflecting the surrounding landscapes of Four Corners Monument.
Camping and Stargazing
Camping and stargazing at Four Corners is a memorable experience. Setting up camp in the area provides a peaceful retreat surrounded by desert landscapes. As night falls, the sky transforms into a stunning display of stars. The clear skies make it easy to see constellations, planets, and even the Milky Way. Camping allows you to engage yourself in the natural beauty of the region. Prepare for cool nights by bringing warm clothing and a cozy sleeping bag. Overall, camping and stargazing at this area offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.
Hike Nearby Trails
Hiking the nearby trails of Four Corners Monument is an adventure you don’t want to miss. It offers several trails that showcase the beauty of the desert landscape. Start your hike early in the morning to enjoy the cool temperatures and soft light. Trails vary in length and difficulty levels, so there’s something for all kind of hikers. As you hike, you’ll be surrounded by stunning views. Bring plenty of water, wear sturdy shoes, and protect yourself from the sun. Hiking near the Four Corners offers a unique opportunity to explore the region.
Visit Nearby Navajo Attractions
Visiting nearby Navajo attractions is a fantastic way to experience the rich culture and history of the Navajo Nation. Start with the Navajo Nation Museum, where you can learn about Navajo history and traditions. The Navajo Code Talkers Museum honors those who played a crucial role in World War II. Traditional Navajo markets are filled with handmade crafts and jewelry. Monument Valley, with its towering sandstone formations, is another must-visit attraction. Overall, exploring Navajo attractions offers a unique and enriching experience during your visit.
Day Trips & Excursions
Mesa Verde National Park
Taking a day trip to Mesa Verde National Park is about an 1.5 hours from Four Corners Monument, offering stunning desert landscapes and wide-open skies. Mesa Verde National Park is famous for its well-preserved cliff dwellings built by the Ancestral Puebloans. Start your visit at the Visitor and Research Center for maps and information. Guided tours of Cliff Palace offer deep insights into the history and culture. Hiking trails like Petroglyph Point Trail provide chances to see ancient rock carvings. Pack your picnic stuff to enjoy in the scenic areas.
Monument Valley
A day trip to Monument Valley is an unforgettable experience from Four Corners Monument. The drive is about 2 hours and offers stunning desert landscapes and wide-open skies. Monument Valley welcomes you with its iconic sandstone formations. A guided tour is a great way to explore the area and learn about its cultural significance. The Visitor Center provides maps and information. Hiking trails, like the Wildcat Trail, offer chances to get up close to the formations. Pack your picnic stuff to enjoy in the scenic areas and learn about the region’s geology.
Cortez, CO
Taking a day trip to Cortez, CO from Four Corners Monument is a fantastic adventure. The drive is about an hour and offers beautiful desert landscapes and wide-open skies. Once you arrive in Cortez, explore the Cortez Cultural Center to learn about local history and culture. Stroll through the charming downtown area with unique shops and cafes. For outdoor enthusiasts, the nearby Hawkins Preserve offers hiking trails and beautiful views. In conclusion, a day trip to Cortez, CO provides a mix of cultural experiences and outdoor activities.
Natural Bridges National Monument, UT
Taking a day trip to Natural Bridges National Monument takes about 2.5 hours from Four Corners Monument, offering beautiful views of desert landscapes and wide-open skies. Start your visit at the Visitor Center to get maps and information about the park. The three main bridges, Sipapu, Kachina, and Owachomo, are must-sees. Hiking the trails is a great way to explore the park. Bring plenty of water and wear sturdy shoes. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings and listen to the sounds of nature for an unforgettable experience.
Navajo National Monument, AZ
Taking a day trip to Navajo National Monument is a fantastic adventure. The drive takes about 2 hours from Four Corners Monument and offers beautiful desert landscapes along the way. Start at the Visitor Center for maps and information about the park. The main attractions are the ancient cliff dwellings, built by the Ancestral Puebloans over 700 years ago. Hiking trails like the Sandal Trail offer great views of the dwellings. Be sure to bring more water bottles and wear sturdy shoes. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings and listen to the sounds of nature.
How to Reach Four Corners Monument
Reaching Four Corners Monument is a straightforward journey. The closest major airport to Four Corners Monument is Durango-La Plata County Airport (DRO) in Colorado, about 1.5 hours away by car. You can find flights to this airport from several major cities like Denver, Dallas, and Phoenix. From the airport, you can hire or rent a car anytime and drive to the monument. Another option is to fly into Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ) in New Mexico. This airport is larger and has more flight options, but it is about 4 hours away by car.
From New Mexico, head northwest on US-64 W, then take US-160 W. This route takes you through Shiprock and offers scenic desert views along the way. From Arizona, take US-160 E, passing through Tuba City and Kayenta. The drive from Utah involves taking US-191 S, then US-163 S and finally US-160 E. From Colorado, follow US-160 W through Cortez. The monument is in a remote area, so be sure to have enough fuel, water bottles, and snacks. Remember to check the opening hours and any travel advisories before you go.
Local Transportation
Local transportation around Four Corners Monument can be quite basic, given its remote location. Most visitors rely on their own cars to get around. If you’re visiting from nearby areas, driving your own vehicle is the most convenient option. Ensure your vehicle having enough fuel and in good condition before the trip, as services can be sparse. Parking is available at the monument, making it easy to explore once you arrive. There are no direct bus or train services to Four Corners Monument.
For those without a car, renting a vehicle from nearby towns like Farmington in NM, or Cortez in CO, is a practical solution. Several car rental companies operate in these towns, offering a range of vehicles to suit your needs. Some rental cars are also available at both Durango and Albuquerque airports. If you prefer not to drive, some companies offer guided tours that include transportation to the monument, which can be a convenient option.
FAQ’s (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. What is the Four Corners Monument?
The Four Corners Monument is a unique landmark where the states of New Mexico, Arizona, Colorado, and Utah all meet at a single point. It’s the only place in the United States where four states intersect, making it a popular spot for visitors who want to stand in four states simultaneously.
2. What are the hours of operation for Four Corners Monument?
The monument is generally open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, but hours can vary depending on the season and weather conditions. It’s a good idea to check the official website or contact local information sources for the most current hours before planning your visit.
3. Are there any facilities at Four Corners Monument?
Yes, there are basic facilities at the monument, including restrooms and a gift shop. The gift shop offers souvenirs and local crafts, which can be a great way to remember your visit. There are no food services, so it’s a good idea to bring snacks or drinks with you.
4. Is there a best time of year to visit Four Corners Monument?
The best times to visit are during the spring and fall months when the weather is milder and more pleasant. Summer can be quite hot, with temperatures often exceeding 90°F (32°C), while winter can be cold with potential snowfall. Spring and fall seasons both offer beautiful scenery and less crowds.
5. Are there guided tours available at Four Corners Monument?
While there are no official guided tours provided at the monument itself, local tour companies offer packages that include visits to Four Corners along with other attractions in the area. These tours can be a great way to explore the region and learn more about its history and culture.
