Culture & History
Discover the rich culture and historical depth of the Four Corners region, a unique crossroads where the states of New Mexico, Colorado, Utah, and Arizona converge. The mesas and canyons of the Four Corners were home to ancient peoples whose legacies continue to resonate and live today, leaving an indelible mark on the American Southwest. Discover the dynamic history of its modern indigenous peoples, the Ute, Paiute, Diné (Navajo), Hopi, Zuni and Pueblo.
The Ancestral Puebloan culture, formerly known as Anasazi, reached across the entire Southwest for centuries, and is renowned for its architectural marvels, including the cliff dwellings of Mesa Verde and the great houses of Chaco Canyon. From the awe-inspiring Aztec Ruins to the mysterious rock art and pueblitas, the heart and soul of the region are truly its Native cultures.
Explore the rich tapestry of Native American history and culture, from the ancestral stories etched in stone to the vibrant traditions that continue to flourish today. Discover the culinary delights of native food traditions, a testament to the region’s rich agricultural heritage and the ingenuity of its people.
The region’s mining history adds another layer, with tales of fortune, struggle, and resilience that shape the character of these lands. Here, history is a living, breathing presence that continues to influence and inspire. Journey with us along the Trail of the Ancients National Scenic Byway, a 480-mile route through Colorado and Utah that links an impressive array of archaeological sites, including Aztec Ruins.
Immerse yourself in the stories, traditions, and legacies that shape the Four Corners. Learn the fascinating history of the Hole-in-the-Rock Expedition. We invite you to explore, learn, and engage with the rich history and culture of the Four Corners. Explore the Aztec Museum & Pioneer Village.
Walk in the footprints of the Old Spanish Trail and make new discoveries and gain a deeper understanding of this remarkable region. Open up a world of discovery, where every turn on the road brings a new story, a new perspective on the American experience.
Mesa Verde National Park — Cliff Dwellings Unlock the Past
Mesa Verde National Park has some of the most notable and best-preserved ruins in North America with more than 4,700 archaeological sites. We tell…
Explore Historic Navajo Defensive Sites and Rock Art
Discover the ancient Navajo defensive sites, known as ‘pueblitos,’ scattered across the Four Corners region. Experience the legacy of these fortified structures built by…
The Fascinating History of the Hole in the Rock Expedition
Explore the Hole in the Rock Expedition’s Riveting Tale of Pioneering Spirit and Unyielding Courage.
From Four Corners to Ancient Ruins: Cortez Colorado Has it All
Explore Cortez, Colorado: A hub for history, culture, and outdoor adventure in the heart of the Four Corners region, offering breathtaking landscapes and ancient…
Visit Natural Bridges National Monument
When exploring the Four Corners region in America’s beautiful Southwest, Natural Bridges National Monument definitely belongs on your itinerary. Here, you can see two…
A Complete Guide to Wildlife Viewing in the Four Corners
Wildlife viewing opportunities abound, and some of the animals you can spot here aren’t seen in many other places. With the wide open spaces…
Explore the Indigenous Tribes of the Four Corners
Explore the rich heritage and history of Native American tribes within the Four Corners region, including the Navajo, Hopi, Ute, and Jicarilla Apache. Discover…
Navajo National Monument: Hiking, Camping & Ancient History
In 1909, President William Taft established Navajo National Monument to protect the three Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwelling sites found there. Betatakin is the easiest…