Redditors Call Four Corners Monument a Ripoff – Here’s Why We’d Still Stop By

The Four Corners Monument

Some folks on Reddit hate it, but we think standing in four states at once is pretty cool. Here’s the real scoop on America’s most controversial roadside attraction.

The Story Behind the Monument

During the Civil War in 1863, Congress mapped out state borders in the West to stop land fights. Surveyors marked lines that created the only spot in America where four states meet.

Little did they know they were creating what would become either the coolest photo op ever or the biggest tourist trap in the Southwest, depending on who you ask.

What You’ll See When You Visit

The first marker in 1912 was just a plain cement pad. Today, you’ll find a nice granite and brass monument where you can put your hands and feet in Arizona, New Mexico, Utah, and Colorado all at once.

Six flags fly overhead – one for each state, plus flags for the Navajo Nation and Ute Mountain Ute Tribe.

It’s Not Exactly in the Right Spot

The Four Corners Monument is about 1,800 feet off from what modern surveyor tools say it should be.

No one’s moving that plaque anytime soon, though. All four states agree that this is the official spot, even if it’s not perfect.

Why It Matters to the Navajo People

Four Corners sits on Navajo land and is run by the Navajo Nation Parks Department. For both the Navajo Nation and Ute Mountain Ute Tribe, this place has deep cultural roots.

If you want to learn more about Navajo and Ute culture, head over to the Monument Valley Visitor Center (two hours away).

What the Haters Say about Four Corners Monument

Many Reddit users are NOT impressed with Four Corners, calling it:

• “It’s just a marker on a concrete slab. Very anticlimactic.“
• “Absolutely, positively, 100% not worth it.“
• “It is a horrid tourist trap. I don’t know anyone who’s gone to four corners and enjoyed it.“
• “Nope, boring.”

Harsh, but we get it. Four Corners Monument is quite a detour. The nearest gas station is miles away, and there’s barely any cell service in the area. Aside from the plaque and a few booths, there’s really nothing else to do here.

What the Fans Say about the Four Corners Monument

On TripAdvisor, people are more positive:

• “One of those bucket list experiences!”
• “Nice people and beautiful handmade crafts to buy.”
• “Fun little road stop for some great photos.”

It’s also ranked ranked #2 of 4 things to do in Teec Nos Pos, with 3.5 stars out of 2,180 reviews.

Our Take: Stop By If You’re Near

No, it’s not as amazing as the Grand Canyon. But there’s something cool about touching four states at once.

It takes just a few minutes, makes for a great photo, and gives you a special travel story. How often can you be in four places at once?

Bring Your Credit Card

The monument is on Navajo land and costs $8 per person to visit. Important: they only take credit cards – no cash. This fee helps maintain the site.

Shop for Native American Crafts

Around the monument, Navajo vendors sell handmade jewelry, crafts, and tasty frybread. This is a great chance to buy something authentic and support local artists. Don’t be shy about chatting up the vendors.

What to Do After the Four Corners Monument

Four Corners itself will take maybe 15 minutes to visit. Luckily, it’s on the way to some amazing places:

• Monument Valley with its famous red rock towers
• Mesa Verde’s ancient cliff homes
• Natural Bridges National Monument
• Canyonlands National Park

Quick Facts for Your Visit

Address: NM-597, Teec Nos Pos, AZ 86514

Hours: 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, Monday-Saturday

Closed: New Year’s Day, Thanksgiving, Navajo Nation Family Day, Christmas, and all other Navajo Nation holidays

Tip: Go early to avoid the long lines and heat.