National Parks in the Four Corners Area
Love National Parks and exploring historic sites amidst stunning landscapes? If so, you will certainly enjoy exploring the Four Corners area! Farmington, New Mexico is the perfect destination for the exploration of National Parks, National Monuments, and Historical Parks and is one of the few cities in the United States where you can explore five National Parks and enjoy the comfort of being settled in one fun and affordable basecamp. Farmington sits at the center of a region rich with National Parks, historic sites, monuments, world heritage sites, and trails, while still having all of the amenities of a larger city, making it the ideal basecamp for visitors to the area. With thousands of acres of Public Lands, there are many outdoor and cultural adventures to be had!
Discover the beauty and history of the Four Corners region as you tour magnificent National Park Sites—Aztec Ruins National Monument, Chaco Cultural Historical Park, Mesa Verde National Park, Hovenweep National Monument, and Natural Bridges National Monument. This area provides the unique opportunity to offer out of the classroom learning, for both the young and young at heart.
Historical Sites and Cultural Parks
Visitors from across the world interested in archaeology, history and Native American cultures enjoy Farmington as their National Park and outdoor adventure basecamp. Centrally located amidst these national treasures, it’s easy to plan day-trips to explore the fascinating history and astonishing landmarks of the Four Corners region. Be sure to include hidden gems like Salmon Ruins, Dinétah Rock Art & Pueblitos, and Simon Canyon to your must-visit list. If you choose to extend your stay and explore the surrounding areas, New Mexico is home to 19 National Parks, Monuments, Trails, and Historic Parks. Enrich your vacation experience and explore New Mexico National Parks.
Hiking and Landscapes
If it is the desert southwest landscapes and unique geology that you are interested in, it's highly recommended that in addition to National Parks you explore the wilderness areas and public lands of North West New Mexico. Bring your hiking boots and camera to experience and capture the stunning landscapes at Angel Peak, Ah-shi-sle-pah Wilderness, Bisti Badlands, and Shiprock Pinnacle.
Ah-shi-sle-pah Wilderness Study Area
On US Highway 550, 7.5 miles northwest of Nageezi, NM along NM 57.
505-564-7600
The Ah-shi-sle-pah Wilderness Study Area is located in northwestern New Mexico and is a badland area of rolling water-carved clay hills. The area is rich in fossils and spectacular geological formations making it perfect for hiking and landscape photography!
Angel Peak Scenic Area
County Road 7175 off of Hwy. 550, South of Bloomfield, NM
505-564-7600
Angel Peak Scenic Area offers more than 10,000 acres of rugged terrain and is recognized for its scenic and scientific wonders. The nearly 7,000-foot "Angel Peak" is visible for miles in any direction and is surrounded by the Kutz Canyon badlands.
Aztec Ruins National Monument
725 Ruins Road, Aztec, NM 87410
505-334-6174
Aztec Ruins National Monument provides visitors an intimate opportunity to explore ancient ruins built by the ancient Ancestral Puebloans in the 1100s. Aztec Ruins features ceremonial, public, and storage structures as well as the "Great Kiva" the oldest and largest reconstructed Kiva in North America.
Bisti Badlands / De-na-zin Wilderness
Road 7297, off of Highway 371 South of Farmington, NM
(505) 564-7600
The Bisti Badlands offers roughly 60 square miles of remote badlands and some of the most unusual scenery in the world. National Geographic Traveler listed the Bisti/De-Na-Zin Wilderness, also known as the Bisti Badlands, one of their must-visit adventure destinations! This is a bucket list vacation for every venturesome hiker, explorer, and photographer.
Chaco Culture National Historical Park
Turn off is on US 550 at CR 7900 Nagezzi, NM
505-786-7014
Chaco Culture National Historical Park, also known as Chaco Canyon, is the largest excavated prehistoric ruins in North America and is a must-see for history buffs and outdoor lovers. It is advised that visitors call the Park prior to a visit to ensure roads are accessible during inclement weather.
Dinétah Rock Art & Pueblitos
Dinétah is the traditional homeland of the Navajo people. The region is full of Ancestral Puebloan and Navajo rock art and small Navajo ruins called pueblitos, which is Spanish for “little pueblos.” There is also evidence left by the Ute tribes and early Spanish explorers and settlers. While not a National Park, these sites are of great interest to those interested in visiting Aztec Ruins National Monument, Chaco Culture National Historical Park and Mesa Verde National Park.
Four Corners Monument
Hwy. 160, 60 miles NW of Farmington, NM
(928) 871-6647
The Four Corners Monument, also known as the Four Corners Tribal Park, is the only point within the United States where four states intersect at one point. You can stand in one spot with a hand or foot in each state: Arizona, New Mexico, Utah, and Colorado. This special geographical location is noted with a beautiful monument perfect for that one of a kind photo stop. Four Corners Monument is not a National Park or Monument. The park is designated as a Tribal Park.
Hovenweep National Monument
McElmo Route, Cortez, CO 81321
(970) 562-4282
Hovenweep National Monument is open however, some facilities have closed.
Journey Into The Past Tours
6131 US-64, Bloomfield, NM
505- 632-2013
Journey Into The Past Tours offers a unique opportunity to learn about and experience the amazing archaeological treasures of the southwest.
Mesa Verde National Park
Hwy. 491, Mesa Verde National Park, CO 81330
(970) 529-4465
For over 700 years, the Ancestral Pueblo people built thriving communities on the mesas and in the cliffs of Mesa Verde. Today, the park protects the rich cultural heritage of 26 Pueblos and Tribes and offers visitors a spectacular window into the past.
Navajo Tours USA
Nageezi, NM
855-422-5476
tours@NavajoUSA.com
Embark on an enriching hike through the Bisti Badlands with Navajo Tours USA. The 5-hour tours provide insights into both the history of the landforms and their Indigenous cultural significance. Enjoy additional tour offerings to Chaco Canyon, the surreal Ah-Shi-Sle-Pah Wilderness, and the majestic Shiprock Peak. Photo enthusiasts are encouraged to pack their gear to capture the spellbinding moments!
Salmon Ruins
6131 Hwy. 64, Bloomfield, NM 87413
505-632-2013
Visit Salmon Ruins and you will discover a cultural museum, Heritage Park, Journey Into the Past Tours and the San Juan County Archaeological Research Center & Library.
Simon Canyon
Navajo Lake State Park
505-564-7600 or 800-842-3127
The wildlife, scenery and a Navajo Pueblito found amidst these 3,900 acres of diverse canyon landscape make this a great area for day hikes.
El Malpais
1900 E. Santa Fe Ave. Grants, NM 87020
505-876-2783
El Malpais offers everything from scenic overlooks, and short walks to strenuous trails, caving, and rugged backcountry hikes. Take your pick of many great outdoor sights and spectacles that encompass the geology, history, and culture of the region.