Shiprock
Tsé Bitʼaʼí
A volcanic neck rising nearly 500 m from the flat desert, shaped like a sailing ship. It is a sacred mountain of the Navajo Nation and a landmark of the Four Corners region.
Shiprock is the volcanic neck left behind after an eruption about 27 million years ago. It rises about 480 m above the surrounding plain, with long rock walls (dikes) extending from its sides. In the Navajo language it is called Tsé Bitʼaʼí, meaning 'rock with wings'. It lies within the Navajo Nation reservation and is regarded as sacred. Climbing has been banned since 1970, so visitors can only admire it from a distance. The classic viewpoints are along Route 491 and Indian Route 13, where you can see the rock walls and the main peak together. When entering unpaved tribal land, follow Navajo Nation rules and do not cross the fences. It is about 50 km from Farmington, and you can stop at Four Corners Monument on the way.
Opening hours
Open all day (view from afar)
Nearby sights
- Farmington Museum at Gateway Park
- Bisti/De-Na-Zin Wilderness
- Salmon Ruins & Heritage Park
- Aztec Ruins National Monument
- Angel Peak Scenic Area
- Valley of Dreams (Ah-shi-sle-pah Wilderness Study Area)
- Chaco Culture National Historical Park
- San Juan River Quality Waters