A collection of Scenic photos throughout the Four Corners.

The Four Corners Scenic Gallery gives us an insight into the vast beauty of the Navajo Nation and surrounding region. Located in the surrounding Four Corners, I took advantage and set up a scenic gallery to give just cause to visit the Four Corners/Southwest U.S. Here are some facts and information about the Four Corners region, Navajo Nation, and Southwest Native American culture, with a focus on the Monument Valley area:

Four Corners Scenic Gallery:

1. Unique Geographic Location: The Four Corners Monument is the only point in the United States where the borders of four states meet: Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, and Utah. It’s a popular tourist destination for this reason.
2. Navajo Reservation: The monument is located within the boundaries of the Navajo Nation Reservation, making it a significant cultural and historical site for the Navajo people.
3. Geological Features: The Four Corners region is known for its stunning geological formations, including deep canyons, mesas, and buttes, which offer breathtaking views and excellent photo opportunities.
4. Cultural Demonstrations: Visitors can often experience Native American cultural demonstrations, including traditional Navajo dances and artisan crafts, at the monument.

Navajo Nation:

1. Largest Native American Nation: The Navajo Nation is the largest federally recognized Native American tribe in the United States, covering more than 27,000 square miles in portions of Arizona, New Mexico, and Utah.
2. Language and Culture: The Navajo people have a rich cultural heritage, and the Navajo language is widely spoken on the reservation. Traditional practices, such as weaving, jewelry-making, and storytelling, continue to be an integral part of Navajo culture.
3. Monument Valley: Monument Valley, located within the Navajo Nation, is famous for its iconic red sandstone formations, including the Mittens and Totem Pole. It has been a backdrop for many Western films and is a must-visit for its stunning landscapes.
4. Navajo Code Talkers: During World War II, Navajo Code Talkers played a crucial role in the U.S. military by using their language to create unbreakable codes that were used for secure communication.

Southwest Native American Culture (Monument Valley area):

1. Traditional Dwellings: The Navajo people historically lived in traditional hogans, which are round or octagonal homes made of logs and covered in mud or adobe. Some of these traditional dwellings can still be seen in the region.
2. Sandpaintings: Navajo sandpaintings are intricate designs created with colored sand and used in healing and spiritual ceremonies. They are considered sacred and are not intended for public display.
3. Rock Art: The Monument Valley area contains ancient petroglyphs and pictographs created by indigenous people, providing a glimpse into their history and spiritual beliefs.
4. Sacred Sites: Many locations in Monument Valley hold spiritual significance for the Navajo people, so it’s important to be respectful and obtain permission when visiting certain areas.

Here are some additional resources for further information:

1. Four Corners Monument
2. Navajo Nation Official Website
3. Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park
4. Navajo Code Talkers Association

When visiting these areas, it’s essential to respect the land, culture, and traditions of the Navajo Nation and other indigenous communities in the Southwest.