Shutdown or Not, Explore Plenty of Beauty, History & Culture in the Four Corners

The Four Corners region of New Mexico is well known as the place where outdoor lovers thrive. The ideal base camp to many area National Parks, outdoor recreation areas and cultural attractions, Farmington offers a wealth of experiences to offer visitors, even during the current Government shutdown. Photos by Stan Ford

New Mexico’s recreation-rich Farmington remains open for outdoor exploration at many sites, and travelers are encouraged to visit and explore, according to tourism officials. For those who have trips scheduled to National Park sites, they advise that there is no need to cancel a trip with plenty of exciting cultural adventures to be enjoyed—closures or not.

For those looking to explore ancestral Puebloan history, the Farmington Convention and Visitors Bureau recommends Salmon Ruins, one of the largest outlying Chaco colonies, or a self-guided tour of the Dinetah Pueblitos and rock art. For those interested in a guided experience to learn about the history and cultures of the region, archeologists with Journey Into the Past Tours offer tours of several key ancestral Puebloan and early Navajo structures in the Farmington area. And, for those seeking the outdoor adventure typically associated with a National Park, a visit to the Bisti Badlands, Angel Peak Scenic Area and Glade Run Recreation will offer exceptional hiking experiences. 

During the shutdown, the following cultural assets are open to visitors:

Angel Peak Scenic Area

With more than 10,000 acres of scenic badland beauty, the rugged terrain is ideal for hiking, picnicking and photography.

Bisti Badlands/De-Na-Zin Wilderness

Listed by National Geographic Traveler as one of the must-visit destinations for 2019, the Bisti is perfect for exploring one-of-a-kind scenery, as you discover unique geologic formations, fossil beds and walls of petrified wood.  The Bisti is a must-see for the adventurer and the photographer.

Chokecherry Canyon Glade Run Recreation Area

Known for its rock crawling, off-road trails, wash runs and challenging courses, Chokecherry Canyon—located inside the Glade Run Recreation Area—is one of the most popular recreation areas in Farmington. A favorite of off-road enthusiasts, the area features a variety of trails for riders of all skill levels and is accessible by UTVs, Jeeps and mountain bikes.

Dinétah Rock Art & Pueblitos

Home to more than 200 pueblitos (“little pueblos”) built between 1680 and 1775—defense sites of Navajo people—explorers can walk through the rooms and view rock art depicting animals, humans, weapons, supernatural beings and more, all of which provide an insight into the daily lives of the inhabitants, as well as a look at their religion and culture.

Four Corners Monument

This is your chance to be in four places at once at the Four Corners National Monument—the only place in the United States where four states (Arizona, New Mexico, Utah and Colorado) connect.

Salmon Ruins

Salmon Ruins is an important piece of southwest history and has preserved one of the largest outlying Chaco colonies. Once home to an estimated 200 to 300 people, the living complex was built during the 11th century by ancestral Puebloans. In addition to exploring ancient homes, visitors can explore homesteads of early pioneers and visit the museum to see collections of jewelry, pottery, and tools.

The following National Parks and Monuments are open during the shutdown with limited or no services:

Hovenweep National Monument

The monument is open, but visitor centers are closed during the shutdown. Hazardous conditions may exist, and there will be no visitor services. Please check conditions and be prepared.

Mesa Verde National Park

The Park is open, but visitor centers are closed during the shutdown. Hazardous conditions may exist, and there will be no visitor services. Please check conditions and be prepared.

National Bridges National Monument

The monument is open, but visitor centers are closed during the shutdown. Hazardous conditions may exist, and there will be no visitor services. Please check conditions and be prepared.

For more information on attractions and closures, check here. For more information on Farmington or to plan your visit check here. For those with trips already scheduled and looking for options to expand their outdoor adventure, please call (505) 326-7602 for personalized recommendations.