Table of Contents

• Route: Albuquerque to Durango to Monument Valley and back
• Highlights: Mesa Verde, Shiprock, Monument Valley, Canyon de Chelly
• Theme: Native American Heritage

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Introduction

The Four Corners Loop is a journey through the heart of the American Southwest, a region rich in natural beauty, cultural significance, and deep historical roots. This road trip takes you from the vibrant city of Albuquerque through the stunning landscapes of New Mexico, Colorado, Arizona, and Utah, highlighting key sites of Native American heritage. From the ancient cliff dwellings of Mesa Verde to the majestic spires of Monument Valley, this "Native American Heritage" road trip is a journey into the past, where the stories of the land and its people come to life. Join William and Hui Cha Stanek as they explore this unique and sacred landscape, sharing personal insights and practical tips for a road trip that offers both adventure and reflection.

Personal Insights from Hui Cha Stanek: "The Four Corners region is a place where history, culture, and nature converge in a way that is both humbling and inspiring. William and I have always been drawn to this part of the country, not just for its breathtaking landscapes, but for the deep sense of history that permeates every canyon, mesa, and cliff. The stories of the Native American peoples who have called this land home for thousands of years are etched into the rocks and the ruins, and you can feel their presence as you explore these ancient sites. This road trip is more than just a journey through beautiful landscapes; it's an opportunity to connect with the history and heritage of the Southwest, to learn from the past, and to honor the traditions that have shaped this land. We invite you to join us on this journey, to discover the magic and the mystery of the Four Corners."

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Day 1: Albuquerque to Durango

Morning: Departure from Albuquerque

• Overview: Start your journey in Albuquerque, a city known for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant arts scene. Before hitting the road, take some time to explore Old Town Albuquerque, with its historic adobe buildings, shops, and galleries.
• Tips from Hui Cha: "Albuquerque is a city that blends the old and the new, with a deep respect for its Native American and Hispanic roots. Start your day with a walk through Old Town, where the past comes alive in the architecture and the art."

Mid-Morning: Route to Durango

• Overview: Head north from Albuquerque towards Durango, Colorado, passing through the dramatic landscapes of northern New Mexico. Along the way, consider a stop in the small town of Aztec, home to the Aztec Ruins National Monument.
• Recommended Scenic Stops: Aztec Ruins National Monument (ancient Puebloan structures), the Animas River Valley, and the beautiful views of the San Juan Mountains as you approach Durango.
• Photography Tips: "The drive through northern New Mexico offers a mix of desert landscapes and mountain vistas - capture the changing scenery as you climb into the San Juan Mountains."

Lunch Stop: Aztec

• Lunch Recommendations:
  1. Rubia's Fine Mexican Dining: A local favorite offering authentic New Mexican cuisine in a relaxed setting.
  2. Aztec Restaurant: A classic diner offering hearty American and New Mexican dishes.
  3. Blake's Lotaburger: A regional chain known for its green chile cheeseburgers, perfect for a quick, tasty bite.

Afternoon: Arrival in Durango

• Overview: Arrive in Durango, a historic town known for its Old West charm and outdoor adventures. Spend the afternoon exploring the town, with its historic downtown area, galleries, and the famous Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad.
• Recommended Scenic Stops: Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad (a historic steam train ride through the mountains), Animas River Trail (a scenic riverside walk), and the Durango Heritage Celebration (seasonal events showcasing the town's history).
• Evening: Enjoy dinner in one of Durango's many excellent restaurants, and take in the views of the surrounding mountains as the sun sets.
• Dining Recommendations:
  1. The Ore House: A historic steakhouse offering a menu of steaks, seafood, and local fare in a cozy, Western-themed setting.
  2. El Moro Spirits & Tavern: A popular spot for creative cocktails and farm-to-table cuisine in a historic building.
  3. Ken & Sue's: A casual yet elegant restaurant offering a mix of contemporary American and international dishes.
• Accommodation Options:
  1. The Strater Hotel: A historic hotel located in the heart of Durango, offering Victorian-style rooms and old-world charm.
  2. Leland House & Rochester Hotel: A boutique hotel with a mix of historic and modern accommodations, located downtown.
  3. Holiday Inn & Suites Durango Downtown: A modern, comfortable option with easy access to downtown Durango and nearby attractions.

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Day 2: Durango to Mesa Verde National Park

Morning: Departure from Durango

• Overview: Start your day with a short drive west to Mesa Verde National Park, home to some of the best-preserved Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings in the United States.
• Tips from Hui Cha: "The drive to Mesa Verde is beautiful, with the morning light illuminating the red rock formations and the distant mountains. Take your time and enjoy the scenery as you approach one of the most significant archaeological sites in North America."

Mid-Morning: Explore Mesa Verde National Park

• Overview: Spend the day exploring Mesa Verde National Park, where you can tour ancient cliff dwellings, hike through beautiful canyons, and learn about the history and culture of the Ancestral Puebloans who lived here over 700 years ago.
• Recommended Scenic Stops: Cliff Palace (the largest cliff dwelling in the park), Balcony House (an adventurous tour with ladders and tunnels), and Spruce Tree House (one of the best-preserved sites).
• Photography Tips: "The light in Mesa Verde changes dramatically throughout the day - morning and late afternoon are best for capturing the textures and colors of the cliff dwellings against the surrounding landscape."

Lunch Stop: Far View Terrace cafe (Inside Mesa Verde)

• Lunch Recommendations:
  1. Far View Terrace cafe: Located within the park, offering casual dining with views of the surrounding mesas.
  2. Metate Room Restaurant: A more upscale option located at the Far View Lodge, offering Southwestern-inspired cuisine with panoramic views.
  3. Pack a picnic: Enjoy a packed lunch at one of the park's scenic picnic areas.

Afternoon: Continue Exploring Mesa Verde

• Overview: After lunch, continue exploring the park's many trails and archaeological sites. Consider taking a ranger-led tour for a deeper understanding of the history and significance of the area.
• Recommended Scenic Stops: Petroglyph Point Trail (offering views of ancient petroglyphs), Chapin Mesa Archaeological Museum (featuring exhibits on the Ancestral Puebloan culture), and the overlooks along Mesa Top Loop Road (offering stunning views of the cliff dwellings).
• Evening: After a full day of exploration, return to Durango for dinner and a relaxing evening.
• Dining Recommendations:
  1. Seasons Rotisserie & Grill: A fine dining restaurant offering seasonal dishes made with locally sourced ingredients.
  2. Jean-Pierre Bakery & Wine Bar: A French-inspired bistro offering pastries, sandwiches, and a selection of wines.
  3. Steamworks Brewing Company: A popular brewpub offering craft beer and a menu of pub fare with a Southwest twist.
• Accommodation Options:
  1. Far View Lodge: Located within Mesa Verde National Park, offering rustic accommodations with breathtaking views.
  2. DoubleTree by Hilton Durango: A comfortable, modern hotel located along the Animas River, offering easy access to downtown Durango.
  3. Historic Strater Hotel: Return to Durango's most iconic hotel, blending Victorian charm with modern comforts.

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Day 3: Durango to Monument Valley

Morning: Departure from Durango

• Overview: Begin your journey from Durango to Monument Valley, one of the most iconic landscapes in the American Southwest, known for its towering sandstone buttes and vast desert vistas.
• Tips from Hui Cha: "The drive from Durango to Monument Valley takes you through a diverse landscape of mountains, deserts, and open plains. Be sure to stop and take in the views along the way, especially as you approach the Utah border."

Mid-Morning: Shiprock

• Overview: On your way to Monument Valley, consider a detour to Shiprock, an impressive and sacred rock formation that rises dramatically from the surrounding desert. This iconic landmark is deeply significant to the Navajo people and offers a stunning photo opportunity.
• Recommended Scenic Stops: Shiprock Overlook (offering views of the towering volcanic rock formation), the nearby Navajo Nation communities, and scenic pullouts along the road for photographs.
• Photography Tips: "Shiprock is best photographed from a distance to capture its full scale against the expansive sky. Early morning or late afternoon light will add depth and texture to your shots."

Lunch Stop: Kayenta, Arizona

• Lunch Recommendations:
  1. Amigo cafe: A local favorite offering Navajo tacos and other traditional dishes.
  2. Blue Coffee Pot Restaurant: Known for its hearty portions and traditional Navajo and American cuisine.
  3. Burger King (with Navajo Code Talkers Exhibit): A unique spot that includes a small exhibit honoring the Navajo Code Talkers of World War II.

Afternoon: Arrival in Monument Valley

• Overview: Arrive in Monument Valley, a landscape of towering sandstone buttes that has been featured in countless films and photographs. Spend the afternoon exploring the valley, either on your own or with a guided tour led by a Navajo guide.
• Recommended Scenic Stops: The Mittens (iconic twin buttes), John Ford's Point (named after the famous director who filmed here), and the 17-mile scenic drive through Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park.
• Photography Tips: "Monument Valley is all about the interplay of light and shadow on the towering buttes - sunrise and sunset are the best times to capture the valley's dramatic beauty."

Evening: Enjoy a traditional Navajo dinner and possibly an evening cultural program or storytelling session, providing insight into the history and culture of the Navajo people.

• Dining Recommendations:
  1. Goulding's Stagecoach Dining Room: Located at Goulding's Lodge, offering a menu of Southwestern and Navajo-inspired dishes.
  2. The View Restaurant: Offers panoramic views of Monument Valley along with a menu featuring local flavors and traditional Navajo dishes.
  3. Amigo cafe (Kayenta): Return to this local favorite if you're staying in Kayenta, with traditional Navajo dishes and friendly service.
• Accommodation Options:
  1. The View Hotel: The only hotel inside Monument Valley Tribal Park, offering unparalleled views of the valley from every room.
  2. Goulding's Lodge: A historic lodge located just outside the park, offering a variety of accommodations, including hotel rooms, suites, and RV sites.
  3. Kayenta Monument Valley Inn: A comfortable hotel located in nearby Kayenta, offering easy access to Monument Valley and surrounding attractions.

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Day 4: Monument Valley to Canyon de Chelly

Morning: Departure from Monument Valley

• Overview: After a sunrise view of Monument Valley, begin your journey south to Canyon de Chelly, a site of deep cultural and historical significance to the Navajo people, known for its stunning red rock canyons and ancient cliff dwellings.
• Tips from Hui Cha: "Watching the sunrise over Monument Valley is an experience you'll never forget - get up early and take in the colors as the sun illuminates the buttes and spires, casting long shadows across the valley floor."

Mid-Morning: Route to Canyon de Chelly

• Overview: Drive through the wide-open landscapes of northeastern Arizona as you make your way to Canyon de Chelly National Monument, located in the heart of the Navajo Nation.
• Recommended Scenic Stops: Agathla Peak (a striking volcanic plug south of Monument Valley), Navajo Nation communities along the route, and the Chinle Wash as you approach Canyon de Chelly.
• Photography Tips: "The landscapes along this route are vast and open - use a wide-angle lens to capture the scale of the land, and don't be afraid to include the road as a leading line in your composition."

Lunch Stop: Chinle, Arizona

• Lunch Recommendations:
  1. Junction Restaurant: A local spot offering Navajo and American cuisine in a relaxed setting.
  2. Dine Restaurant: A simple, family-friendly restaurant known for its traditional Navajo dishes.
  3. Sacred Canyon Lodge cafe: Located near the entrance to Canyon de Chelly, offering a mix of traditional Navajo and American fare.

Afternoon: Explore Canyon de Chelly

• Overview: Spend the afternoon exploring Canyon de Chelly National Monument, known for its towering sandstone walls, ancient cliff dwellings, and rich Navajo history. Consider taking a guided tour with a Navajo guide to gain deeper insights into the canyon's history and cultural significance.
• Recommended Scenic Stops: White House Ruins (the most famous cliff dwelling in the canyon), Spider Rock (a towering sandstone spire with deep cultural significance), and the North and South Rim Drives (offering numerous overlooks and trailheads).
• Photography Tips: "Spider Rock is one of the most iconic features of Canyon de Chelly - capture it in the late afternoon when the light casts deep shadows, adding depth and drama to your photos."

Evening: Enjoy a quiet evening in Chinle or at the canyon, reflecting on the day's exploration and the deep history of this sacred place.

• Dining Recommendations:
  1. Junction Restaurant: A return to this local favorite for more Navajo and American comfort food.
  2. Sacred Canyon Lodge cafe: Enjoy a casual meal with a focus on local Navajo cuisine.
  3. Burger King (Chinle): For a quick and convenient option, with friendly service and familiar fare.
• Accommodation Options:
  1. Thunderbird Lodge: The only hotel within Canyon de Chelly National Monument, offering rustic accommodations with modern amenities.
  2. Holiday Inn Canyon de Chelly (Chinle): A comfortable, modern hotel located near the entrance to the park.
  3. Sacred Canyon Lodge: A quiet, serene lodge located near the canyon, offering a peaceful retreat with easy access to the park.

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Day 5: Canyon de Chelly to Albuquerque

Morning: Departure from Canyon de Chelly

• Overview: Begin your return journey to Albuquerque, reflecting on the deep history and natural beauty you've experienced along the way. Consider taking a different route back to explore new landscapes and communities.
• Tips from Hui Cha: "The road back to Albuquerque offers a chance to reflect on the journey you've taken - think about the stories you've heard, the people you've met, and the landscapes you've explored. Every mile is a reminder of the deep connection between the land and the people who call it home."

Mid-Morning: Route to Gallup, New Mexico

• Overview: Drive through the heart of the Navajo Nation as you make your way to Gallup, New Mexico, a historic town known for its Native American art, culture, and trading posts.
• Recommended Scenic Stops: Hubbell Trading Post National Historic Site (the oldest continuously operating trading post in the Navajo Nation), Red Rock Park (known for its striking red rock formations), and El Morro National Monument (a historic site with ancient petroglyphs and inscriptions from Spanish explorers).
• Photography Tips: "Hubbell Trading Post offers a glimpse into the history of the Navajo Nation - capture the historic buildings and the unique art and crafts sold here, which reflect the rich cultural heritage of the region."

Lunch Stop: Gallup, New Mexico

• Lunch Recommendations:
  1. Jerry's cafe: A local institution known for its green chile dishes and classic New Mexican fare.
  2. Earl's Restaurant: A casual, family-friendly spot offering a mix of American and New Mexican dishes.
  3. Camille's Sidewalk cafe: A charming cafe offering sandwiches, salads, and smoothies in a relaxed setting.

Afternoon: Return to Albuquerque

• Overview: Complete your journey by driving back to Albuquerque, where you can enjoy a final evening exploring the city's vibrant cultural scene or relaxing after your adventure.
• Recommended Scenic Stops: Stop at any remaining scenic or cultural sites along the way, such as Acoma Pueblo (one of the oldest continuously inhabited communities in the U.S.) or Petroglyph National Monument (featuring ancient rock carvings).
• Evening: Arrive back in Albuquerque, where you can enjoy a final evening meal and reflect on the journey through the Four Corners region.
• Dining Recommendations:
  1. El Pinto Restaurant & Cantina: A popular spot for authentic New Mexican cuisine in a beautiful, historic setting.
  2. Antiquity Restaurant: A fine dining experience offering steak, seafood, and local dishes in Old Town Albuquerque.
  3. Sadie's of New Mexico: A beloved local chain offering hearty portions of New Mexican comfort food.
• Accommodation Options:
  1. Hotel Chaco: A luxury boutique hotel inspired by the ancient architecture of Chaco Canyon, located in the heart of Albuquerque.
  2. Los Poblanos Historic Inn & Organic Farm: A beautiful inn offering a unique farm-to-table experience and a peaceful retreat on the outskirts of the city.
  3. Hotel Andaluz Albuquerque, Curio Collection by Hilton: A historic hotel offering modern luxury with a touch of Old World charm in downtown Albuquerque.

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Conclusion

Reflections from Hui Cha Stanek:
"The Four Corners Loop is a journey through a landscape that is as rich in history as it is in beauty. From the ancient cliff dwellings of Mesa Verde to the towering spires of Monument Valley, and the sacred canyons of the Navajo Nation, this road trip has been a powerful reminder of the deep connection between the land and its people. William and I have always felt a strong pull to the Southwest, a region where the stories of the past are written in the rocks, the ruins, and the very earth itself. As we drove back to Albuquerque, I couldn't help but think about the lessons this journey has taught us - the importance of honoring the land, respecting the cultures that have shaped it, and understanding the history that continues to influence it today. The Four Corners region is a place where the past and present come together, where the land tells the stories of those who have walked it for centuries. I hope this trip inspires you to explore this sacred land with an open heart, a curious mind, and a deep respect for the heritage that makes it so special."