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Four Corners Area

Four Corners Monument   |  Matt Morgan
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As the only place in the United States where four states meet at one geographic location, the Four Corners is unique. However, the meeting of Utah, Arizona, Colorado and New Mexico is only one reason this region is so special. This area is also home to a rich indigenous heritage and several sovereign tribal reserves and nations, including the Navajo Nation, Hopi, Ute and Zuni.

Ancestral Puebloan people lived in the area earlier than 1200 CE, and evidence of their fascinating culture and rich heritage abounds. They are known for building cliff dwellings perched along canyon walls. Marvel at the builders’ innovative ideas, construction skills, and remnants, set against stunning sandstone panoramas.

Dark skies lend to dazzling celestial shows in the evenings. Sit back and soak in the stars while contemplating the ancient ways. Visit the Four Corners in Utah on its own or add a stop on a trip to Arches or Canyonlands national parks.

Monument Valley Visiting Southern Utah

Discover the Four Corners Region

Four Corners Monument

Photo: Matt Morgan

Four Corners Monument

When government surveyors found where the states of Utah, Arizona, Colorado and New Mexico came together, they installed a simple cement pad marking the spot in 1912. Over time, the monument evolved, with a granite marker bearing a copper disc established in 1992. Further improvements came in 2010 when the site added two intersecting lines through the center disc, marking the boundaries, alongside the seal of each of the four states. 

Four Corners National Monument is administered by the Navajo Nation Parks and Recreation Department. At the site, Native American artisans sell handmade jewelry, crafts and traditional foods from numerous booths and shops. The monument’s visitor center includes demonstrations and information about native cultures in the region.

Edge of the Cedars State Park Museum

The Four Corners Experience in Utah

Take a drive along Trail of the Ancients Scenic Byway to immerse yourself in the Four Corners region, soaking up the history, culture and endless scenery. The route begins in Blanding, where you can see Ancestral Puebloan artifacts and a 1,000-year-old kiva at Edge of the Cedars State Park Museum.

Meander along State Route 95, leaving plenty of time to stop and explore between Blanding and Natural Bridges National Monument. Comb Ridge, Butler Wash, Cedar Mesa and Valley of the Gods are popular stops along the Trail of the Ancients Scenic Byway.

Spend time in the Four Corners gateway communities to get a true touch of the region. Basecamps could include Mexican Hat, Bluff, Blanding, Monticello or Moab. These areas offer various accommodations and dining options, but during the off-season between October and May, call ahead to find out what’s open

Respecting Tribal Land

When visiting tribal lands, consider taking some time to ponder the past and the present and learn about the unique cultural elements of this sacred region. Learn about the area’s inhabitants and always be respectful of Navajo land and follow proper protocols:

  • Stay in areas where you are allowed. Do not enter anywhere that is marked as closed or off-limits. Stay on trails and designated routes. Do not hike, rock climb or drive any type of vehicle off designated routes. 
  • Do not take or disturb anything, including artifacts, animals, plants and rocks.
  • Alcohol and firearms are not allowed on the Navajo Nation.
  • Never enter anyone’s home unless you are invited, and always ask permission to take photos.

Native Nations In Utah

"When visiting tribal lands, consider taking some time to ponder the past and the present and learn about the unique cultural elements of this sacred region."

What's Nearby

Basecamp Destinations

Plan Your Four Corners Trip

Stunning scenery and unique cultural opportunities await in the Four Corners region of Utah, but a trip here requires a little extra preparation. To prepare for an unforgettable adventure, be sure to learn about proper protocols when visiting tribal lands, select the best season for your needs, plan for variable weather, print good directions ahead of time and bring an up-to-date printed map (in case you're out of cellphone range).

Hotels, Resorts and Motels

If you’re planning a trip to the Four Corners area and want a comfortable, clean place to stay, there are many great accommodations in Blanding and Bluff, Utah. 

  • Bluff Dwellings Resort
  • Desert Rose Resort & Cabins
  • Kokopelli Inn
  • Stone Lizard Lodge
  • Blue Sage Inn & Suites
  • Rodeway Inn & Suites
  • Four Corners Inn
  • Prospector Motor Lodge
  • La Posada Pintada

Camping and RV Parks

Want to stay in the great outdoors instead? Here are some campgrounds and RV parks to consider in the Four Corners area: 

  • Square Tower Ruins Campground
  • Sleeping Bear Campgrounds
  • Goosenecks Campground
  • Goulding’s Resort RV & Camping 
  • Blue Mountain RV & Trading
  • Hummingbird Campsite
  • Sand Island Campground
  • Coral Sands RV Park

When you’re camping in Utah, remember to follow responsible camping guidelines and leave the space in better condition than you found it.

Weather

Located about 5,000 feet above sea level, the Four Corners area has hot summer months, mild shoulder seasons, and even a dusting of snow during the winter. Each season is unique. 

  • During summer (June-August), temperatures approach 100 degrees Fahrenheit, so cooler mornings and evenings are the best time for exploration. Be aware of flash floods. 
  • In winter (December-February), temperatures can be cold, with occasional snow — usually just a dusting. 
  • Spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) typically have the most mild weather. 

No matter when you visit, carry plenty of water and sun protection and be prepared for changing conditions, including cooler conditions and thunderstorms. To learn more, visit our Utah weather page. 

Getting Here

Four Corners Monument is only accessible via car or tour bus. It can be reached from U.S. 191 from just west of Bluff, Utah, through the Navajo Nation, to U.S. 160, or also from Bluff on S.R. 162 into Colorado to 160.

  • Do not rely on vehicle GPS — it is not reliable in the area. Be sure to obtain directions ahead of time and stick to paved roads, which lead to all points of interest.  

Well-prepared travel is responsible travel.

Do your part by planning ahead
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