Shiprock One Of New Mexico S Coolest Rock Formations

New Mexico is full of crazy things. From alien sightings in Roswell, New Mexico, dinosaur footprints in Clayton Lake State Park, and a giant rattlesnake sculpture in Albuquerque, New Mexico, there is no shortage of adventures and things to explore. However, all of these are blown away by Shiprock. Just outside the city, Shiprock, New Mexico lies a giant rock called Shiprock, which gave the town its name. Shiprock is actually a monadnock, which is an isolated rock that rises abruptly from surrounding flatlands.

Shiprock rises out of the desert in Navajo Nation, towering more than 1,500 feet over the surrounding desert.

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In 1975, the National Park Service designated Shiprock as a National Natural Landmark.

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The Navajo name for the peak is Tsé Bitʼaʼí, which means “rock with wings.” The rock has been an important feature of Navajo culture for generations.

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A popular place for adventures, the first recorded climb of Shiprock happened in 1939 but climbing Shiprock has been illegal since 1970.

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While it is illegal to leave the paved road while driving, you can still get an incredible view of Shiprock from the road.

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Shiprock is actually a volcanic plume that formed around 30 million years ago when lava ran over the surface of the mountain.

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There are lots of fascinating things to see in the deserts of New Mexico. Because Shiprock is governed by The Navajo Nation, it is important to abide by their regulations for the rock itself and the surrounding areas. Remember, Shiprock is considered sacred to The Navajo Nation. If you are looking for an adventure and want to see something new in the New Mexico desert, head towards the four corners to see the beauty and wonder of Shiprock in Northwest New Mexico.