Four Corners Monument
Operated as a Navajo Tribal Park (with the Colorado section owned by the Ute Mountain Tribe), a flat monument marks the spot where Utah, Colorado, New Mexico, and Arizona meet -- or were thought to have met, until a 2009 survey found the marker to be up to 2 1/2 miles away from the true intersection of the four states -- on which visitors can pose for photos. Official seals of the four states are displayed, along with the motto FOUR STATES HERE MEET IN FREEDOM UNDER GOD. Surrounding the monument are the flags of the four states, the Navajo Nation and Ute tribes, and the United States. Despite its inaccurate location, which it owes to an 1868 survey, it's still legally recognized as the intersection of the four states, and makes for a good photo opportunity.
There are often crafts demonstrations here, and jewelry, pottery, sand paintings, and other crafts are for sale, along with T-shirts and other souvenirs. In addition, traditional Navajo food, such as fry bread, is available, and a small visitor center offers information on visiting the Navajo Nation.
A half-mile northwest of U.S. 160, the monument is open daily from 7am to 8pm from March through August and 8am to 5pm the rest of the year. It's closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day. Entry costs $3 per person. For information, contact the Navajo Nation Parks and Recreation Department, P.O. Box 2520, Window Rock, AZ 86515 (tel. 928/871-6647; www.navajonationparks.org). Allow a half-hour.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.
