I don't even know where to begin, visiting the Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park was absolutely…read morebreathtaking and deeply spiritual. The contrast of the rich red rock formations against the vivid blue sky is pure eye candy, almost surreal. But what made the experience even more meaningful was meeting members of the Navajo Nation. Learning about their culture and traditions added a powerful, educational layer to the trip. I couldn't leave without buying a unique piece of jewelry handcrafted by an elder. It features multiple stones representing protection, health, and prosperity, and knowing the meaning behind it makes it even more special. We will definitely be back. This place is simply stunning. Travel tips: * You will need an SUV, the roads are rough and not suited for regular cars * Bring sunscreen and lip balm, the dry desert climate is no joke * Go at sunrise or sunset for the most incredible colors and fewer crowds * Bring cash for local vendors (especially for authentic handmade Navajo jewelry) * Allow plenty of time, this isn't a quick stop, it's an experience to take in slowly Absolutely unforgettable.

An amazing stop to add to your trip. You get to see the infamous monument valley and take pictures…read morefor memories to compare from years before. There's a shop inside and bathrooms. You can also take a ride to the actual valleys for a 17 mile loop for $15 per vehicle. Plenty of parking.

Excellent visitor center with free wifi and clean bathrooms. There are also a lot of brochures and…read moresome dioramas showcasing some attractions of the area. The person staffing the front desk was very helpful in providing us travel tips. We were trying to follow a lead to see if the visitor center sold NPS medallions, but alas they did not.

Wonderful free advice and maps from the lovely docent today. Blanding is indeed a base camp of…read moresorts for folks wanting to explore the gorgeous nature and historical sites in the Four Corners area. This visitor's center has lots of free information for you, plus restrooms, a drinking fountain and free parking. Highly recommended.

This is a huge, beautiful, and modern visitor center. On one end you can glimpse their archival…read moresection that preserves the artifacts found here and the research work going on. The other end has a bookshop and a small museum that gives context to the history of the area. Since the national park is so large, I had to ask a ranger for clarification to see what areas of the park were open. Wetherill Mesa is currently closed due to construction. There's also free wifi (you can use it to download the NPS app and get more information during your visit) and clean bathrooms.

Nice visitor center right at the entrance to Mesa Verde National Parks. Was pleasantly surprised by…read morehow large their visitor center was. Plenty of exhibits and information on the park and the Ancestral Pueblo culture. Perfect starting point to lay some foundation before entering the park. Everyone we interacted with here was so nice and friendly, more than willing to share what they know about the park and the culture. Nice little bookstore. Not the largest I've seen but has a nice selection. Plenty of clean bathrooms. Should definitely be your first stop when visiting the national park.

Natural Bridges is one of the most pristine, unspoiled, well-maintained and absolutely gorgeous…read moreNational Monuments I've ever visited. There are three large natural bridges created by erosion that can be seen from the well-paved loop road. You may also hike down to see the bridges closer up; some of the hikes require a bit of dexterity, as you will be navigating ladders and steep staircases. But it's completely worth it. In addition to the stunning natural beauty, there are well-maintained historical relics including petroplyphs and kivas. The visitor center will collect the admission fee (well worth it, believe me) and has books, souvenirs and some hiking supplies available for purchase. My highest recommendation.

This monument delivered on its name - there are in fact natural bridges located here. The three…read morenatural bridges can be seen from overlooks, but to get under them requires hiking. The trail to Sipapu bridge is the most fun as there are stairs, ladders, and steep switchbacks on exposed rock face. There's also a ledge that can be walked on at the middle of the trail that gives an excellent view of the bridge if you don't want to hike down all the way. There's also a small cliff dwelling on the ledge to look at up close. Other more complete structures can be seen at the end of Horsecollar House Overlook.

Stopped in on April 6, 2021. The lights are on, but nobody's home! We stopped in here for some…read moreguidance on what to do in the area. First of all, we didn't realize there was any staff on hand until we peeked around the corner and found somebody sitting at their desk. They did not volunteer to provide any information. When we asked for some hiking suggestions, the attendant did not even put her cell phone down but instead informed us that ".... I don't know what's good or what's open". Lastly, she did not wear a mask or make any attempt to put one on during our brief conversation. Doesn't instill a sense of confidence!

Is this place ver open? The "Gift shop" sign is flashing but they haven't been open for 4 days!read more

This is one amazing Utah state park that visiting Arches National Park or even the adjacent…read moreCanyonlands National Park will not prepare you for. The dramatic, jaw-dropping views of the of the Colorado River, as it meanders green-brown through ions of rock strata and history, is nothing like I've ever seen. They've really built a great overlook there; well paved, comfortable and thoughtful, with places to sit and take it all in (--Hah! Fat chance; it would take you weeks to let it settle into your brain. You just don't want to move, it is so breathtaking). The silence there is profound and the picture perfect day we had today (mid 70's with puffy clouds against a deep blue sky) made it stunning in every way.

This is a small park, but well worth it. The views are just jaw-dropping…read more If you are in Moab, you need to come here. It's just off the north entrance to Canyonlands. There are stone fneces to keep kids safe at the major viewpoints as well. If you are here near mealtime, make sure to visit the ladies at the lunch shack outside the visitors center. The food is expensive (of course) but it's made fresh and tastes great.

All National Parks are amazing, but it's rare to find one that has such a a fascinating…read moreanthropological history as well as incredible views and landscapes. We visited in Late June, and although it was warm, the heat was very bearable. Definitely recommend registering for a tour (don't wait - they fill up quickly!) while planning your visit so you can get a better understanding of and a close up look at the cliff dwellings. Also, be aware that some of the tours are strenuous so read the descriptions before making your choices. I knew what they were before heading to Mesa Verde, but experiencing it first hand and getting to walk on in the ancient dwellings really made it come alive for me. The scenic drive was incredible as well. So many beautiful vistas and historical stops along the drive. We were here for one full day and saw quite a bit - Cliff Palace, Balcony House (Both guided tours - check the website before booking since you need to account for travel time in between), and scenic drive with stops along the way. Loved it here!

I'm already planning a second visit here just due to the sheer amount of things there are to do and…read moresee. Wetherill Mesa was closed due to construction when I visited, and the season for the pueblo tours was not open yet, so that's already on my to do list. Exploring Chapin Mesa took an entire day to drive the loop, do some hiking, and read about all the different artifacts that were uncovered. I liked how there were displays about the different stages of housing and the evolution to the amazing cliff dwellings that the national park is known for. Definitely bring your binoculars to get a better look at the structures!

This visitor center has a playground next to it, so great if you have kids that want to stretch…read moretheir legs. The entrance takes you past a long wall full of brochures and pamphlets, and leads into the main area that has some displays of the Puebloan people. The front desk was staffed by a helpful person who pulled out a map and gave us recommendations on which pueblos to visit. Pretty welcoming!

Coming from out of town, I was tasked with hosting a meeting between Pueblo Community College and…read morelocal school officials. I scoured the internet and couldn't find a place with availability. I contacted the Chamber of Commerce who put me in touch with the Colorado Welcome Center. Right away, the communication was wonderful. They were welcoming with great suggestions and easy scheduling of the room. When we arrived, we were offered a room with beautiful lighting and ample space. We had the option to close the door for privacy. There was no charge to use the room and it was perfect for our needs! I appreciate the employees who made it happen!