Four Corners, Monument Valley, Natural Bridges, and Goblin Valley

We left Albuquerque and headed north to Bloomfield, NM with the hope of visiting Chaco Canyon with an archeologist. Unfortunately, our trip into the canyon was rained out so we headed to Four Corners and Monument Valley. We passed through the town of Farmington NM with a stop at the Hogback Trading Company.

A visit to Hogback Trading Company is as much a part of the Four Corners experience as visiting the monument. Established in 1871 by Joseph Wheeler this post quickly became an institution in the daily lives of the Navajo people. Alabaster sculptors, silversmiths, weavers and young artisans of all forms have been encouraged by the Wheeler family for over 125 years.
Today, Tom Wheeler, fourth generation trader, continues the traditions of his great-grandfather and maintains a highly regarded reputation with artisans and collectors. Tom's hospitality, knowledge regarding history, and the most extensive inventory of Navajo Rugs and Turquoise Jewelry keeps visitors returning! Here, Nancy purchased her first piece of beautiful jewelry which had passed on through Tom’s family, which made it very special.

The Monument Valley trip had to be cancelled because of rain. There are no paved roads in this area which is on the Navajo Reservation. We spent the night at Mexican Hat and then traveled to Blanding, UT where we spent the night. We awoke to snow covered mountains and headed north to Natural Bridges.

Natural Bridges National Monument has three very distinctive sandstone bridges. These natural bridges are formed by the erosive action of moving water. Arches are formed by the erosive action of frost and seeping moisture.

Goblin Valley is full of strange shaped rock formations surrounded by walls of eroded cliffs. The wonderful stone shapes result from millions of years of geologic history. The goblins are made of Entrada sandstone which has been sculpted by forces of nature such as uplift and erosion by wind and water. The uniquely shaped goblins lure you to join them in their desert playground.

We have put together a YouTube movie presentation showing pictures of Four Corners, Monument Valley, Natural Bridges, and Goblin Valley. There is a sound track so turn up your speakers and click the full-screen icon in the lower right hand corner of the movie frame to get the full effect. CLICK HERE to watch the movie presentation.