Is Four Corners Monument on your bucket list? It is the only place in the United States where you can stand in four states AND three sovereign nations at the same time.
Four Corners Monument is the spot where Utah, Colorado, New Mexico, and Arizona meet. The Navajo and Ute nations both overlap the United States at this point. Thousands of visitors travel to this remote monument each year.
As of March 2021, Four Corners Monument – and most other attractions inside the Navajo Nation – are still closed due to COVID-19. Be sure to check the official website for updated information before you go.
We have visited Four Corners Monument twice, and I think it's worth the drive. Here is everything you need to know for a successful trip to Four Corners Monument.
It is in the right place
A few years ago, it was reported in the media that the spot where the four states meet is actually 2.5 miles west of the monument. What!? Who wants to visit Four Corners if it isn't really Four Corners?
I looked into this to find that the original surveyor, using the best tools available in 1868, missed where the spot should have been by about 1800 feet, not 2.5 miles. The marker was placed and accepted by the U.S. Congress, and from that time forward, the marker has been the legal divider between the four states. So it doesn't matter where it should have been, because the marker is legally the exact spot where the four states meet today.
If you'd like to read more about this, check out this short, straightforward article from the Washington Post and a more detailed explanation from the National Geodetic Survey, whose report was the one that was misreported in the first place.
Related: 12 Fun Things to Do in Southeastern Utah
It is in the middle of nowhere
That's not exactly true, because being in four states and three nations at once is an impressive number of somewheres. However, fuel, food, and lodging are limited within 30+ miles of the monument. I felt all alone in the desert for miles, then wondered where all the people came from when we reached Four Corners.
There is no running water at Four Corners Monument, though in 2019 it looked like a new, modern bathroom was under construction. If it's open when you're there, please tell me about it! The current bathrooms are old porta-potties.
Make sure you have plenty of fuel in your car, cash, food and drinks, hand sanitizer, and extras of whatever else you will need for your trip to Four Corners. The nearest convenience station is only about 6 miles away, in Teec Nos Pos, Arizona, but this area really feels remote.
Related: Mesa Verde National Park for Families
It is managed by the Navajo Nation
The flags of the Navajo and Ute Nations fly side by side with the flags of Utah, Colorado, New Mexico, and Arizona at Four Corners. The Navajo Nation overlaps these parts of Utah, Arizona, and New Mexico. The Utes occupy the southwest corner of Colorado.
Admission is $5 per person for ages 7 and up. Children aged 0-6 get in free. Cash or credit cards are accepted. U.S. National Parks passes are not accepted.
The parking lot is large and there is a section reserved for RVs, semi-trucks, and other large vehicles. There are no painted parking spaces, so parking felt a little lawless. However, Four Corners is not that crowded, so it wasn't a big deal. The unpaved lot was a bit rough and bumpy, but most cars should be fine at low speeds.
Service animals are the only animals allowed inside the monument. Pets are OK in the parking area and surrounding wilderness.
Related: 10 Fun Things to Do in Gallup, New Mexico
Expect to wait your turn
Nearly everyone who visits Four Corners Monument wants to take a photo of themselves standing in all four states at once. Other visitors were considerate about taking turns on the monument and allowing us to get good photos. We did the same for them.
There is a sign asking visitors to take only three photos. It keeps the line moving. Generally, the person behind you will be happy to take a photo of your family, if needed.
On both visits, I've been surprised by how many people were at Four Corners, considering how few we saw on the road. However, it's not really that crowded.
We waited 10-15 minutes for our photos on both visits and watched the line randomly get longer or shorter. There was briefly no line at all as we finished our recent June visit.
Related: Favorite Hikes for Families in Canyonlands National Park
Try some Navajo fry bread
You may find vendors selling Navajo fry bread and drinks at the monument, depending on when you go. There were two fry bread stands to choose from when we visited at mid-day in late June. They were not open when we arrived in the late afternoon in mid-October.
Our Navajo taco with beans, cheese tomatoes, lettuce, and onions cost about $12. You can add meat for little or no extra charge. Fry bread with honey cost $5. I split one of each with my son and niece and it worked for a light lunch. We thought that the Navajo taco toppings were a little too light and the flavor was a bit bland. The hot fry bread with honey was a tasty treat.
They do take credit cards but may charge a little extra if you use one. It's smart to keep some cash on hand for Four Corners.
Related: Top Stops for Families in Arches National Park
Save time for shopping
Navajo vendors occupy permanent booths that surround the monument. Nearly all of them sell jewelry and other Navajo crafts. Many are artisans and can tell you all about the items. Most Four Corners vendors accept credit cards.
Ask questions to learn the difference between high-quality and low-quality materials and artistry. There is a reason that some silver and turquoise items are cheap and others are expensive, and I found that vendors were happy to share information. You can find hand-crafted local art and souvenirs to fit any budget.
On our first visit, my daughter wanted a dream catcher. She was able to choose from a large selection of dream catchers at Four Corners, in a variety of colors, sizes, and prices. She settled on a small pink one for $5.
I fell in love with the horsehair pottery on our second visit and perused several booths before finding the perfect Christmas tree ornament. My niece found an inexpensive silver and turquoise jewelry set.
Related: Tips for Visiting Utah's Newspaper Rock
Conclusion
I love unique and authentic destinations and think that Four Corners Monument is worth the drive. It's a must on any Monument Valley trip and an easy side trip from Mesa Verde National Park in Colorado. It would also be a good day trip from Arches or Canyonlands National Parks in Utah.
Good to Know
Where: Just off of U.S. Highway 160, about 6 miles north of Teec Nos Pos, Arizona.
When: Open every day from about 8 AM until 5 or 8 PM, depending on the season. Closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and New Year's Day.
How Much: $5 per person over the age of 6. Ages 6 and younger are free. Cash and credit are accepted at the admission booth and by most vendors. I recommend keeping cash on hand, just in case.
How Long: 30-90 minutes
Amenities: Primitive toilets and picnic tables. Large unpaved parking lot for vehicles of all sizes. Fry bread and souvenirs may be available from vendors.
Website: http://www.discovernavajo.com/parks.aspx
darling729
I hope to stand in 4 states this summer!!! Thanks so much for the tips!
Michele @ Malaysian Meanders
We ended up not taking this detour because hubby deemed the drive not worth the thrill. I’m glad you showed me what it is like. Thanks!
wanderingeducators
what an awesome place!! i love how kind people are, to wait for the photos.
Jill/Colorfulheart
visiting that part of the USA is DEFINITELY worth it…however, we drove into this monument and refused to pay the entrance fee so did a U-turn and drove back out the driveway. Everything but the actual photos of being in 4 states can be seen/done much more effectively elsewhere in that part of the country…
Ron Mott
So you drove 3 hours from anywhere to save $5.00 a person? Hardly seems worth how cheap you are.
Robert Curtis Hinklin
You turned around for $5? Do you have any idea how poor some of those reservations are? Not all those tribes have casinos, you know.
Steven Christenson
There is a cost to keep the place going… and the Navajo Nation isn’t wealthy – but they are a very kind people. Refusing to contribute to help the upkeep of this one place is within your right but do you also refrain from driving on Navajo maintained roads? Would you refuse to pay the entry fee at other National Parks? Those fees help with the upkeep of the parks: maintenance, sanitation, protection, trail development, improvements, and salaries of those who work there.
Ultimately you deprive your family of an opportunity to learn something about the Navajo and our history as an American nation by fixating on a relatively low cost entry fee.
G crow
We shouldn’t have to pay we pay taxes n everyone keeps asking for tax n 50 percent of the time not used for the intended use
Raymond
I’d rather pay DIRECTLY to those vendors and families, than be taxed, not knowing whose pockets my hard earned income ends up in!
.
Thanks for this tip, ALLISON! It’s COVID-19 season right now, but this is in my bucket list when I finally fly out from Sydney for a world tour. <3
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Allison
Thanks, Raymond! I hope you get to cross this one off your bucket list before too long!
Laurel- Capturing la Vita
Such a true “Americana” spot! Love the family photo!
Dave Svoboda
Update: as of June 8, 2014, the entry fee was $5.00 per person. With a car full of people, that costs more than a National Park. Ridiculous. We turned around, too.
Allison Laypath
Thanks for the update! I’ve verified the price increase and updated it in the post.
Bill Cole
Wow! You drove how many miles to get there and were too cheap to pay $5 bucks a pop to enjoy a fun tourist trap? Sad. Just think of the gas you wasted by not planning ahead!
Jim S.
How is that any concern of yours?
Terry
Tip: Next time, do as we did. There were 8 of us but we could squeeze 7 into the trunk. Nicked a $10 native bracelet whilst they weren’t looking so finished up $5 dollars up on the deal.
John L
That does seem kind of pricey. You would think that they could charge by the car and maybe a slightly higher price for an RV, but $5/person could add up
Chris Jamison
Unbelievable! How much did it cost in fuel to get there? I’ll bet you stopped later had something to eat and left a 20% tip for the waiter for the privilege – I don’t understand some people. Didn’t think you Americans were so stingy.
Aart
Not much. Because USA fuel is very cheap compared to Europe $7.70/gallon
Sue Greene
We visited a couple weeks ago and if it hadn’t been so hot we would have stayed longer. The vendors have some very nice reasonably priced items. Also a some had beautiful handmade sterling silver jewelry very reasonably priced. We were only 2 people, don’t think I would have felt the same for a family of 4.
Allison Laypath
I bet that it is very hot this time of year. Thanks for your insight and recommendations!
Kim Beckwith
Thx so much for the useful info. We are planning to go and glad we found your site.
Allison Laypath
Happy to help! I hope you have a great experience. Thanks for your comment!
Carol Allen
Heading there next month am so excited the 5 dollar fee does not seem to be bad to go to a magical place as that is cheap price to pay for the energy and experience you will get there.. i would think different if it was more then 3 of us going but am taking My 76 year old mom and my 73 year old Aunt so this will be there once in a lifetime visit even though they were born and raised in Colorado .Guess i am blessed to go there and get the chance to be there with them 🙂 thanks for all your info and thanks everyone else for you comments sure did help alot.. Blessings to all
jeannette
Yes. I agree. That sounds like you are in a differant level of your life out look. I haven’t been but I would like to and I live in Fl.
Beverly Van Horn
We arrived in the morning on Sept. 12th, It was well worth the stop. I enjoyed talking with the vendors. I enjoyed eating fried bread, too. We bought a sand painting. I thought the prices were great.
Allison Laypath
Carol and Beverly, that’s how we felt too. Thanks for your comments!
stephanie7828
I’m curious what the weather is like in the area during the different seasons. Has anyone visited during winter or spring?
Allison Laypath
If any readers have been there in winter or spring, please share your experience!
Tammy
My husband are taking a mid west trip from Feb 2nd to Feb 17th, we will let you know how it is, we are arriving at the Four Corners on the 3rd.
Allison
Fantastic! I look forward to hearing your report. Have a great trip. 🙂
Sheri
Awesome!! We are going in June, 2018. Would like to know if entrance is still $5 each or if it’s higher now so we can plan for that. Thank you!!
Allison
Hi Sheri! According to discovernavajo.com, the official Navajo Tourism website, the entrance fee is still $5. Still cash only. I would take extra, just to be safe. If it is different when you arrive, please do let me know. 🙂
Starr Butler
Spring is cool slightly colder. & winter well dress warmly.
Diane funderhide
Can you take a large RV in the parki
Diane Funderhide
sorry for last post-did not finish.Can you take a large (40 feet) RV in the parking lot or do we need to park it and drive in without it. Is the road paved or gravel going in?
Starr Butler
You can drive in but rxpect for it to be bumpy unless there’s parking near the small paved road as you enter the park. After you pay at the toll booth
Allison Laypath
I do not recall the answer to this question. I have emailed Four Corners Monument and hopefully, an answer will be posted soon. If you would like to email Monument administrators directly, here is the contact information from the official website: http://www.navajonationparks.org/htm/fourcornersvisit.htm
This is a good question. Thank you!
Diane Funderhide
There is enough room in the parking lot for large rvs. You have to watch where you drive because the parking lot has pot holes and big rocks. We thought the admission fee ($5) was acceptable. All the vendors were fun. Great place to visit!
Allison Laypath
Thanks for coming back with the information! I’m sure that your experience will be helpful to other travelers.
eileen moran
can you please tell me what the weather is late February early march. thank you
Allison Laypath
Temperatures at that time of year are typically in the high 40’s or low 50’s (F). Sun is more common than rain or snow in that part of the country, but the still-winter weather can be unpredictable. You’ll probably also benefit from smaller off-season crowds. You’ll want to keep an eye on the forecast just before you go, but it should be a great time to visit!
Lynda
My family of 6 is planning a trip the first week of November do you know what the tempatures will be around that time of year ?
Lynda
Also where is the nearest gas station before the monument coming from Grand Canyon area … thank you
Allison
I have not driven the full road from the Grand Canyon South Rim to Four Corners, but Kayenta is about 80 miles from Four Corners and I have been there. Kayenta is a popular tourist base for Monument Valley. It has gas stations, hotels, restaurants, groceries, etc. You may find other gas stations between Kayenta and Four Corners, but Kayenta is a sure thing.
Allison
Hi Lynda. November temperatures in this part of the country tend to be cool and sunny. The average high is 55 degrees F. It should be a great time to go, with reasonable weather and lighter crowds. However, you should be prepared for any weather. Snow is possible and rural roads may be treacherous in bad weather.
Johnny
Funny how the white ppl wanted to kill pff all the indians now go there with fake feelings
Penn White
Question: Where is the closest place to set up a tent near Four Corners? I will be arriving on my bicycle in July
Allison
We did not camp, so I cannot recommend a specific campground. Cortez, Colorado is about 40 miles away, and that was our base. It has many services, including commercial campgrounds, and is located just outside of Mesa Verde National Park, which also has campgrounds, and should not be missed if you’re in the area. There may be campsites nearer the Four Corners Monument, but the area is quite rural, with limited opportunities to find water. It sounds like you’re planning a great adventure. Good luck!
Starr Butler
Cortez for camping yes. Nothing else closer to four corners monument. There’s absolutely NO camping in the park tho.
Vicky Fellbaum
Make sure to check their hours before you drive all that way. We got there at 5:23 and it closed at 5:00. Very disappointing. While we were siting there at least 30 other vehicles drove up.
Allison
That would be disappointing! Thank you for this important reminder.
Tom Reid
What is the closest fueling location in miles, from the Monument?
Allison
According to Utah.com, the nearest gas station is 6 miles away in Teec Nos Pos, Arizona. The site lists other communities with fuel as well. We traveled to Cortez, Colorado (40 miles away) after visiting Four Corners, and I recall that there is a truck stop in between Four Corners and Cortez.
Dave
Going to 4 Corners, should we fly to Farmington or Durango for accommodations,
Allison
We drove from Salt Lake City, and stayed inside Mesa Verde National Park near Cortez, Colorado. Cortez is located between Durango and Four Corners, and has a number of hotels to choose from. I highly recommend visiting Mesa Verde if you are in the area. I know that there are other fun things to do in Durango as well, so that will probably be a good choice. I am not as familiar with Farmington, NM.
Maribel
Im planning a trip in early August, can anyone tell me how the weather is around that time. Thank you.
Katie Baird
Maribel, it is going to be quite hot and dry. I’ve been in the summer a few times and there is no shade and it is very rural. I’ve been there in a rainstorm so it can rain, but I would plan for a lot of heat and direct sun most likely.
Melissa Danielson
We were in Four Corners at the booths and talked to Betty Slim, 1 of the vendors that is Navajo. My daughter bought a ceramic cat from a booth 2 – 3 down from Bettys. She dropped it as soon as we got home and was heart broken we are trying to find the person who made it and order a new one, If anyone can help. Thank you
Allison
I’m so sorry! I hope that someone is able to help connect you with this vendor.
Melissa
I live close can you email me a picture of this cat and when I go down there I’ll look into it for you.
Starr Butler
Do you have a picture of the cat or what it looked like even after its broken? The vendors dont usually go into the same booth day to day. They could be in a different booth the next day. Best to get a busniess card or even their name & number for future purchases.
Bob
Of the four states Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico and Utah… which would be the better vacation location to have 4 Corners as part of the itinerary?
Allison
It was part of our trip to Mesa Verde National Park in Colorado, which I highly recommend. You’ll also find two national monuments and the resort town of Durango not too far away from Mesa Verde. However, you’ve got some good options in the other states as well. Arches and Canyonlands in Utah, Monument Valley in Arizona, or the Farmington area of New Mexico.
Barbara
I am planning a trip to 4 corners next spring. Would March, April or May be the better time to visit for warm, not hot weather? Would there be any type of flowers in bloom – cactus maybe?
Allison
I can’t say for sure, because we visited in October. Based on historic data, April is probably the sweet spot. You’ll likely get pleasant temps just about anytime in the spring. Rain and snow are not unheard of, but not typical either. It’s very dry. You may get lower crowds early in March, and you’ll beat much of the Spring Break travel season.
Cathy
What hotels are there around that area on the Arizona side?
Allison
I don’t have recent experience with the Arizona side. Kayenta, Arizona is about an hour from Four Corners and has a handful of hotels that serve Monument Valley tourists. I have only visited Kayenta once, many years ago, but recall that it is among the better developed towns in the area for tourists. Farmington, New Mexico may be a good alternative, but I have not visited that city.
Tom Markman
We are going in August this year. What is the best time of day to be there in terms of least crowds?
Allison
Hi Tom. I have not been there in August. However, we find that most places are least crowded first thing in the morning. If you can get an early start and arrive around 8 AM, it will probably be less crowded and you’ll get cooler temperatures. The heat may be extreme later in the day.
Sara
Can you bring a dog?
Allison
I do not have personal experience with this, but according to http://www.dogfriendly.com, dogs are allowed at Four Corners. They must be leashed, well-behaved and cleaned-up after.
Carol Howe
This is not a tourist trap. It is a National Monument. The only place in the USA where 4 states meet and you can be in all 4 at once. I find it totally unique. I am so surprised that some people here got all the way up and refused to pay $5 each to get in. Shame on you. So very cheap. But I bet you dropped plenty of money off in gas to get there. Unbelievable
Robert Weiner
I agree, Carol! I have been two times and plan to return this year. All jewelry is authentic, unlike the knock offs found around the west. Beautiful pots and other crafts. Such a unique place with interesting artisans. NOT a tourist trap with cheap foreign made souvenirs. Who would drive all the way out here and let the entrance fee deter them? Yes, unbelievable…..
Kim
I have been wanting to do this for some time now just didn’t have no-one to do it with now i do thanks for letting me know what to expect
Allison
You’re welcome. I hope you have a wonderful trip!
Marcy Brodish
Heading out west in about a month and Four Corners is on our list. Thanks so much for sharing your experience. I can’t wait. $5.00 is nothing for a once in a lifetime opportunity! I am coming from Pennsylvania!
Allison
It’s definitely a bucket list kind of place, totally worth it for us! Have a wonderful trip!
Jann Swan
Do you know where the “Dark Sky” is near 4-corners? I have heard that there is one there.
Allison
Are you talking about stargazing? Four Corners is so remote that you shouldn’t have much trouble with light pollution anywhere around. Natural Bridges National Monument is “Dark Sky Certified.” It’s in the southeast corner of Utah, about 2 hours drive from Four Corners.
Sheree
Hi Allison,
We are staying near Monument Valley just for a night before heading back to Page, AZ the next day this Thanksgiving holiday. Is the Four Corners something we can do within half a day? Like a round-trip to and from Four Corners?
Allison
Four Corners is about 2.75 hours drive from Page, Arizona. Monument Valley is about halfway between the two and drive time will vary depending on your starting point (I guessed Kayenta.) It might be a little tight, but you could probably make the trip to Four Corners and back to Page in half a day. Make sure that you have plenty of fuel, water and snacks. The weather will probably be OK, but check the forecast. This area is very remote with few services. It sounds like a fun trip to me. Have fun!
Sheree
Thanks Allison for your quick reply. One more thing, is the road to and from paved?
Allison
Some roads in the area are not paved, but when we traveled from Salt Lake City to Four Corners, it was all paved. I believe that the main highways through Monument Valley and Page, Arizona will all be paved too.
Blanca M
Thank You mom, you were very helpful, I want to take my daughter sometime this year
Carol teneyck
Has anyone ever got married on there and how would they go about it
Allison
That would be so cool! I’m guessing that the people you need to talk to about that are listed here: http://navajonationparks.org/about-us/
Starr Butler
Yes people have gotten married there ( proposed to, too) bring your priest & get married 🙂
MURILO FREGONEZE FARIAS
You forgot to mention Albuquerque, that is the nearest airport from the Four Corners!
Allison
Thanks for letting me know! I have updated that information in the post, and making a note to visit Albuquerque before too long. 🙂
MURILO FREGONEZE FARIAS
You are very welcome!! 😀
Carolyn
I read somewhere that the road leading to the Four Corners closes at a certain time because of the remoteness. Any info on that? I can’t seem to find where I read that at. Thank you
Allison
I can’t say for sure, but it is indeed so remote that I can’t imagine that anyone would want to close it except Monument staff. Four Corners closes as early as 5 pm and as late as 7:45 pm, depending on the season. Here is the link for the monument’s hours and fees. http://navajonationparks.org/navajo-tribal-parks/four-corners-monument/hours-fees/
madison
What is the temperature their in march
Allison
March typically begins cool and warms up by the end of the month. Average high temperatures range from the high 40s to mid 60s, Fahrenheit. Weather can be unpredictable at this time of year and snow is still possible in March, but sunshine is the norm in this desert destination.
Myra
I’m very glad I came upon your website, particularly the information on 4 Corners. My grandkids live in Colorado Springs and I am planning a road trip this year with them (12 and 8) to Mesa Verde Nat’l Park, Petrified Forest, Meteor Crater and 4 Corners and maybe the Grand Canyon. We couldn’t do those stops on our way from Colorado to California last summer (had the dog with us and too hot) and they were quite disappointed. Thank you for the tips….
Allison
You are welcome! That sounds like a great trip, and I hope you all have a wonderful time!
everydarnmile
does anyone know if Bicycles are allowed in park and any camping as I am coming through from Page Az Thanks
Allison
I can’t say for certain, but I assume that bikes are OK. The fee is simply listed as “per person” and I don’t remember anything about the road or parking lot that would prevent you from riding a bike in. I assume that bikes are not common since this such is an isolated destination. Please plan for a few unpaved roads and take care!
Dale Watkins
I know this is mainly regarding Four Corners, of which we’ll be headed to in 3 weeks…but we are avid atv riders, and have spent many a trip from home (western Canada) to the Moab region, usually 3 or 4 couples and RV’s. We’ve researched the area many times, and absolutely love the area, so a big thanks to your site Allison, for helping those of us that care to travel the area. I’ve still not made it to Zion National Park, but will try hard to do so on this upcoming trip! Bryce will be another region we’ll try to see, and often it comes down to whether our RV will fit in the parking lots. Thanks again!
Allison
Thanks so much for your feedback! I’m so glad to help and hope you are able to visit Zion and Bryce before long. They are my favorite places on earth, though Moab is a close second. 🙂
Deanna
How long was the wait to take your picture at Four Corners
Allison
Our wait was pretty short – 5-10 minutes. We visited in mid-October, which is probably not high season. I’m guessing that waits can be longer, but I’d be surprised if they were a lot longer than 15-20 minutes any time. Summers are hot and this is a remote destination.
Carolyn Baines
We were just there June 9th 2017. there was a short line and the wait was very minimal 10 to 15 minutes. the people in line are very patient waiting for everyone to take pictures. Some in line even offer to take pictures for you so that that speeds up the process. all in all it’s a good experience I recommend that you go we loved it and we’ll go back sometime in the future
Allison
Thanks so much, Carolyn!
Carol Lewis
We were there at noon on June 5, 2017 and we waited about 15 minutes. There is a sign that asks you only take 3 pictures per group so the line can keep moving. Many groups would get their pics and then go get in line again.
Allison
Thanks so much, Carol!
Carol Lewis
We just visited 4 Corners a week ago. The $5/person was definitely with it. We had a wonderful time seeing the spot where the 4 corners meet up. The vendors were all super nice and so friendly. It was neat when you realized that you were shopping in 4 different states while you were walking around the square of vendor shops. Just so everyone knows – while we were there we noticed that they had a new bathroom building built but it wasn’t open yet. When we asked a vendor about it she said it should be open any time because the water had been ran and hooked up. We waited about 15 minutes to get pictures and we were there around noon in early June. They do have a sign that asks only 3 photos per group to help the line move along. There were several groups that would take their 3 pics and then go get back in line. Definitely worth stopping at and I got to check something off my bucket list!
Allison
Hooray for new bathrooms! Thanks so much for the update.
Christine N
I am planning to drive there Wednesday and my mom walks with a walker and has severe asthma, is it a long walk from the parking area to the actual four corner monument that you would stand on for the picture? -Thx Chris AZ
Allison
Hi Christine. The walk from the parking lot to the marker is short (a few hundred feet?) and flat. You’ll pass some shops on your way and the marker is in the center.
Linda Coronado
Planning a road trip from San Antonio Texas to the Grand Canyon by way of Colorado Springs Colorado and stopping at Four Corners what would you say is the best time to be at the Monument? And would you know how far from the Monument to the Grand Canyon ?
Allison
I have only visited Four Corners Monument in late afternoon, and that was an OK time to visit. First thing in the morning is the best time to visit most attractions because it is the least crowded. Summer temperatures will be most pleasant in the morning. According to Google Maps (which is an essential tool in my travel planning) it’s about 4 hours from Four Corners to Grand Canyon Village on the South Rim. Sounds like a great trip! Have fun!
Jesse
Wish I had read this earlier. We drove by two years ago late summer at 7:10 PM, just in time to meet a lady who said “closed” before she locked the gate. Needless to say, we were so disappointed, and I was blamed for spending too much time in Cortez to enjoy my seafood gumbo soup 😉
Well, we are going again this summer, and I will make sure that we arrive before 7 pm.
Allison
Oh no! That sounds like something that would happen to me. So glad to hear that you get a “do over” this summer and I hope you have a great time!
Tom
Maybe one day we can all travel again without jumping through hoops. This would be on our list, got as far as monument Valley last time.
Mimi
For such a rare opportunity, I can’t agree that $5 is over priced. Who benefits from the income? It’s still cheaper than a movie or a dinner out with the family! My daughter has recently moved there for her degree and plans on taking us to the 4 corners. I hope it won’t be too hot or too difficult for a wheelchair! I’m looking forward to getting a photo of us, too!
Gary
At 5 bucks a person they could afford to pave the parking area. As it is, you end up dodge huge pot-holes and eating dust.
Louis
This post is completely wrong! The entrance fee is $5 per person, and they do take credit cards. There is a gas station about 6 miles from the monument so no worries there. they do have some food vendors there as well, which I would imagine would also be able to provide you with bottled water and soft drinks, but remember again there is a trading post / gas station convenience store about 6 miles from the monument so feel free to get your snacks there. Overall it’s worth checking off your bucket list! PS, they take credit cards!
Allison
Thanks for your comment, Louis! It has been a few years since our visit, and I’m always grateful to receive updated information. Credit cards are new since our visit. I have updated that and some of the other information you provided in the post so it will be more helpful for others. I completely agree that Four Corners is worth the visit and I’m glad that you were well accommodated during your visit.
Kimberly McKay
We’re planning to stop by here this summer and driving quite a bit to get there just to go. I’m glad I found your site!
d Michael
Visited May 28th 2022. Entrance is now $8 per person and only credit cards are accepted. There are so many other interesting cultural and geological attractions in Arizona, Colorado, Utah, and New Mexico. Four Corners was definitely not worth the time or money. They still have vault (outhouse) toilets and a few food trucks/stands, along with multiple souvenir and Native American vendor stands. But there are many, many roadside stands on the Navaho reservation where you can purchase jewelry and souvenirs. Unless you absolutely have to have a selfie with the Four Corners medallion, I would drive on.
Allison
Thanks for the update and for sharing your perspective!