Four Corners Monument — Attraction in Shiprock Agency

Visiting the Four Corners Monument, where Arizona, New Mexico, Utah, and Colorado meet, is a unique experience, though it comes with a few caveats. First-time visitors might find the approach to the monument somewhat disorienting. The exterior and entrance, including the parking area, could benefit from a design update. The parking lot itself is unpaved and scattered with large rocks, making navigation a bit challenging.

Inside, the atmosphere is bustling with activity from Navajo vendors offering a variety of goods. While some may find this diminishes the monument's solemnity, it's worth noting that these vendors are part of the local culture, offering handmade crafts and souvenirs that reflect the region's heritage. However, the commercial vibe may not align with everyone's expectations of a typical monument visit.

The central attraction, where the four states intersect, is undeniably fascinating. It's the only place in the U.S. where you can stand in four states simultaneously, and this novelty does provide for a memorable experience and great photo opportunities.

A notable aspect is the lack of a visitor center, which some might find disappointing. This means there's limited information available on-site about the monument's history and significance. As such, doing some research beforehand or bringing along a guidebook might enhance your visit.

It's important for visitors to be aware that the Four Corners Monument is not a national monument but is situated on tribal land. This means standard national park passes are not accepted here. The entry fee is $8 per person, which may feel steep for some, especially for larger groups or families. However, this fee supports the maintenance of the monument and the local community.

Overall, while the Four Corners Monument may not offer a polished tourist experience, it does provide a unique geographical point of interest. If you're already in the area, it's worth a stop to experience this opportunity to be in four states at once. However, if you're looking for a more traditional park experience with extensive facilities, this might not be the...

Welcome to the American west. This was a long time bucket list item ✔️. My beloved uncle Richard and aunt Margaret visited decades ago. Their memories served to inspire mine. This is the only location throughout the continental USA where four states intersect at single point. It would be interesting understanding the reasons behind the state line decisions. I recall there being a PBS production discussing how various state lines came to be. Meanwhile, we drove scenic highway 160 from Durango. The sandstone terrain felt mesmerizing; this was a visual I had seen only in western films. There were shapes, dimensions, and formations carved into this unique dusty landscape covering millions of years, dare I say perhaps even a billion years. This area once comprised oceanic territory. Ours was a stunningly beautiful drive. Arriving, the four corners monument is well marked and easily located. We knew in advance there would be an $8 per person entry fee. Probably $5 per person would have been more appropriate but their price is the price. No reason to haggle, just enjoy. After parking, we noticed there were restrooms (porta-potty) available, food trucks, vendors, and the four-corners intersection. On this Friday, there weren’t many visitors yet, so there wasn’t overt pressure to rush photos. I highly recommend taking your time. We helped other couples take photos, while they reciprocated. This was an efficient tradeoff. Afterwards, we toured the vendor area engaging with the craftsmen, and in one case observed the final coat of paint being intricately applied to the pottery. Interesting and educational experience! The product quality was undeniably high. My only regret was not taking time to short-hike the terrain behind the monument. Afterwards, we returned immediately to Durango. If you are considering going, GO, this a once in a lifetime very...

Seriously underwhelming. This place has so much potential, but it is incredibly wasted. You pay 5 dollars per person, but the main bathroom is closed because it has no water. There were other bathrooms installed at the site because the main one was closed down, but half of those are closed too. Towards the back, there are porta potties, except half of those were closed as well. So most of your trip here will be spent waiting in line for a open restroom..... If you think you're done waiting in line, your wrong...... Next you get to stand in line to take a picture of yourself at the 4 state stamps. I bet you're going to be thirsty after all of this line waiting in the blazing hot desert heat, and would love to have a nice refreshment. Except, surprise! No drinks for sale. The two small food spots were closed during our visit, so the signs advertising Navajo Tacos was the biggest tease of the whole stop. I honestly love supporting others businesses, and contributing to smaller ones, but the small shops here were all the same and once I purchased something, i couldn't find anything different at any of the other shops.

This place could seriously improve if they offered a few more options like, Native food, more Navajo culture displays, horseback riding (if possible, there are two nice walking trails) for families or kids, vending machines offering drinks, and fixing/opening all of the restrooms. I understand not all of these could be possible, but at a minimum opening all of the restrooms and offering beverages would be a great improvement.

Last but not least, the random bbq pits were...