Things To Do
in Four Corners
Four Corners is a unique geographic location in the southwestern United States where the borders of four states - Arizona, Utah, Colorado, and New Mexico - meet at a single point. Visitors can stand in all four states at once by placing each limb in a different state. The area is marked by a granite monument that designates the exact point where the states intersect.
Four Corners is a popular tourist attraction and a symbol of the interconnectedness of state boundaries in the United States.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $75 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $35
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $4
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the Mesa Verde National Park Visitor Center to get maps and information. Hike the Cliff Palace Loop Trail for stunning views of ancient cliff dwellings.
Enjoy a packed lunch at one of the scenic overlooks inside the park. Visit the Balcony House for a guided tour, exploring more of the unique architecture.
Drive to the nearby town of Cortez for dinner at a local restaurant. Wind down with a stroll through the town to experience the local culture.
Begin at the Island in the Sky district of Canyonlands National Park. Take in the breathtaking views from the Mesa Arch at sunrise.
Spend the afternoon hiking the Grand View Point Trail for panoramic vistas. Enjoy a picnic lunch while taking in the stunning canyons below.
Head back to Moab for dinner and explore local shops. Catch the sunset at the La Sal Mountains for a colorful end to your day.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Unique geographical location where four states meet (Arizona, New Mexico, Colorado, Utah)
- Rich cultural heritage, including Native American history and traditions
- Diverse landscapes, from desert to mountains, offering various outdoor recreational opportunities
- Tourist attractions like Monument Valley, Canyonlands National Park, and the Navajo Nation
- Opportunity for unique photography and scenic views
- Remote location may make access difficult for some travelers
- Harsh climate with extreme temperatures in summer and winter
- Limited urban amenities and infrastructure compared to larger cities
- Potential for cultural insensitivity or misunderstanding when visiting Native lands
- Economic challenges for local communities, often reliant on tourism
Best Activities in Four Corners
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the stunning desert landscapes, canyons, and rock formations in this expansive national park. There are various trails suited for all skill levels.
Experience the thrilling rapids of the Colorado River while taking in breathtaking views of the surrounding sandstone cliffs and geological formations.
Take guided tours to see the iconic red rock formations and learn about Navajo culture and history in this iconic landscape.
Enjoy the great outdoors with camping, hiking, and fishing opportunities amidst the tall pines and breathtaking mountain views of San Juan National Forest.
Moab offers a variety of biking trails ranging from easy scenic routes to challenging off-road paths, perfect for mountain biking enthusiasts.
Visit this UNESCO World Heritage site to learn about ancient Puebloan culture, impressive ruins, and the deep history of the Southwest.
Tours
Uncover the best of Four Corners with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Four Corners
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers scenic views of ancient cliff dwellings and canyons, great for photography
Iconic rock formations and expansive desert landscapes provide stunning photo opportunities
Breathtaking viewpoint overlooking a dramatic meander of the Colorado River
Famous for its slot canyons and unique light play, ideal for capturing mesmerizing images
Food in Four Corners
Four Corners Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A delicious dish consisting of frybread topped with seasoned ground beef, beans, cheese, lettuce, and tomatoes. Best enjoyed at local Navajo tribal fairs and festivals.
Must-Try!
A flavorful stew made with pork, green chilies, and potatoes, reflecting the influence of New Mexican cuisine. Widely available at local diners and restaurants.
An iconic dish featuring lean and savory buffalo meat, served as a burger with traditional or creative toppings. Best found at Western-themed eateries and ranch restaurants.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Four Corners better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant market offering fresh produce, local crafts, and prepared foods. Visitors can savor gourmet tamales, Navajo frybread, and other regional treats.
Look out for food trucks and stalls offering authentic street tacos, featuring fillings such as grilled carne asada, tender barbacoa, and zesty salsa verde.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In the Four Corners region, which includes parts of Native American reservations, it's crucial to learn about and respect the various indigenous cultures. Take time to understand local customs, traditions, and beliefs, and engage with community members with an open mind.
The land in the Four Corners area is of great significance to many local communities. When visiting natural sites, be mindful of environmental conservation practices. Follow Leave No Trace principles and show respect for sacred places.
In many cultures within the Four Corners, greetings and communication styles can differ significantly from mainstream practices. Always greet people warmly and be aware of non-verbal cues. Listening attentively and allowing others to share their stories is a sign of respect.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Four Corners with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Four Corners
Ensure a smooth experience
In the Four Corners region, which includes parts of Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, and Utah, tipping practices can vary by industry. In restaurants, it is customary to tip servers between 15% to 20% of the bill before tax, similar to national standards. However, in more tourist-centric areas, tips can be higher due to the service industry relying on gratuities. In other service areas like taxis or spa services, a smaller tip (10%-15%) is typical, but rounding up is also common.
Payment methods in the Four Corners are similar to those found in other parts of the United States. Cash, credit, and debit cards are widely accepted in most establishments. Mobile payment options, such as Apple Pay and Google Wallet, are becoming increasingly common, especially in urban areas. Additionally, in some towns, local businesses may prefer cash transactions to avoid credit card fees. It's important to note that there may be variations in acceptance based on remote locations and types of establishments.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Four Corners.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Four Corners as the weather is mild and pleasant. The landscape is also often blooming with wildflowers, making for beautiful scenery.
Summer is a popular time to visit Four Corners due to the warm weather and abundance of outdoor activities. It's a great time for hiking, camping, and exploring the national parks in the area.
Fall is another wonderful time to visit Four Corners as the foliage begins to change, creating stunning colors across the landscape. The weather is still comfortable, making it ideal for outdoor adventures.
Winter can be a quieter time to visit Four Corners, with fewer crowds and a different kind of beauty. While some areas may experience snow, it can also be a great time for winter sports like skiing and snowshoeing.
Four Corners at Night
Hiking in Four Corners
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning park featuring archaeological sites of the Ancestral Puebloans, with a variety of hiking trails ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes.
Home to numerous archaeological sites, this area offers a network of trails that wind through beautiful canyons and desert landscapes.
Known for its ancient stone towers and scenic views, Hovenweep offers several trails that take you through historic sites and diverse terrain.
Located in Southwestern Colorado, this forest provides expansive hiking opportunities with breathtaking views of the Colorado Rockies.
While primarily known for water activities, there are various hiking trails around the surrounding area offering stunning views of the lake and its unique rock formations.
A picturesque alpine lake located in the Wasatch Plateau, offering serene hikes with beautiful mountain scenery.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Chaco offers trails that connect ancient ruins with the stunning New Mexico landscape.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Four Corners through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Four Corners by plane.
Located in Denver, Colorado, approximately 350 miles northeast of the Four Corners area, this is the largest airport in the region and a major hub for domestic and international flights.
Situated in Phoenix, Arizona, around 250 miles southwest of the Four Corners area, it serves as a key airport for travel to and from the southwestern United States.
Located in Salt Lake City, Utah, roughly 450 miles northwest of the Four Corners, it provides significant domestic and international flight options.
Situated in Albuquerque, New Mexico, approximately 200 miles southeast of the Four Corners region, this airport offers a variety of regional and national flights.
Located in Las Vegas, Nevada, about 450 miles west of the Four Corners region, it is a major airport for travelers heading to and from the entertainment capital of the world.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant demographic group in the Four Corners region, primarily consisting of people with Mexican, Puerto Rican, and Central American heritage.
Caucasian individuals, many of whom have settled in the region over the decades, including both long-term residents and newcomers.
Indigenous peoples, including various tribes such as the Navajo Nation and Hopi, with a rich cultural history in the region.
A smaller demographic group compared to others in the area, contributing to the diverse cultural landscape of Four Corners.
Includes individuals from various Asian backgrounds, though they represent a smaller proportion of the population in the Four Corners.
Individuals identifying as mixed race or belonging to other ethnic groups that do not fit the major categories.
The Soul of Four Corners
Discover the essence of Four Corners through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball is a highly popular sport in the Four Corners region, played in schools and community leagues, with many local tournaments.
American football is widely followed, particularly at the high school level, where local rivalries are strong and games attract significant community support.
Soccer has been growing in popularity in the Four Corners area, with youth leagues and clubs developing a strong following.
Rodeo events are a staple in the Four Corners region, reflecting the area's ranching culture and drawing large crowds at competitions.
With its diverse terrain and scenic trails, mountain biking is a popular recreational activity in the Four Corners region, attracting both locals and tourists.
Given the stunning natural landscapes of the Four Corners area, hiking draws many outdoor enthusiasts to explore its numerous trails.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Four Corners.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many local eateries offer vegetarian and vegan adaptations of Southwestern classics, with dishes like veggie enchiladas, grilled cactus tacos, and hearty bean burritos.
Several restaurants in Four Corners provide gluten-free alternatives, including corn tortilla wraps, gluten-free pizzas, and celiac-friendly menu items to accommodate dietary needs.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Four Corners with these cultural adventures.
