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The iconic Shiprock rises out of the desert and is visible for miles. It’s located in the Four Corners region in northwest New Mexico, within the territory of Navajo Nation.
About Shiprock
The unique rock formation stands 1,583 feet (482 meters) high. It was created millions of years ago by the erosion of a volcano that once stood around it. The rock is historically and religiously significant to the Navajo people and is the subject of several Navajo legends. The Navajo name is Tsé Bitʼaʼí (Winged Rock or Rock with Wings), while the English name is due to its resemblance to a 19th-century clipper ship. The rock was named a National Natural Landmark in 1975.
The first recorded climb of the rock was in 1939. It was performed by David Brower (1912-2000), Raffi Bedayn, Bestor Robinson (1898-1987), and John Dyer, who climbed with a group on behalf of the Sierra Club. It was the first climb in the United States that used expansion bolts for protection.
Climbing the rock has been illegal since March 1970, when three climbers were seriously injured during an attempt. The rock climbing ban extends to all land under the jurisdiction of Navajo Nation.
Viewing the Rock
Because it’s considered a sacred site, it’s impossible to get anywhere near Shiprock without prior authorization from the Navajo Tribal Government. All of the land around it is private property, and anyone found trespassing is subject to prosecution.
The rock is 10 ¾ miles (17.3 kilometers) southwest of the town of Shiprock. The best way to see it is by finding a good spot and pulling off the road. There are no designated viewpoints but it’s impossible to miss from anywhere in the area. We drove south on US 491 past the Shiprock Campground, then turned right on Route 13 heading west. We drove for a few miles until we found a good place to stop and snap some photos.
