Each September, Farmington becomes a gathering place for off-road enthusiasts during Four Corners 4×4 Week. The annual event brings together trail riders, competitors, local businesses and spectators to celebrate the vehicles, landscapes and people that have made off-roading a longtime tradition in the area.
Hosted by the CliffHangers Four Wheel Drive Club, Four Corners 4×4 Week highlights the strong off-road community that exists throughout the Four Corners. While experienced drivers come to test their skills on local trails, the event also welcomes families, spectators and anyone interested in learning more about off-roading and outdoor recreation.
Throughout the week, attendees can watch competitions, explore vendor displays, admire unique vehicle builds and connect with the people who help make Farmington’s off-road scene special.
The week offers something different each day, showcasing the many sides of Farmington’s off-road community.
Activities begin Monday, Sept. 7, with the 4 Corners Show & Swap at the Farmington Museum & Visitor Center. Open to the public with free admission, attendees can buy, sell or trade parts, browse vehicles, and connect with fellow enthusiasts.
On Tuesday, registered Fall Crawl participants gather for a Meet & Greet before heading out for the Night Run at Chokecherry Canyon. From Wednesday, Sept. 9, through Friday, Sept. 11, Fall Crawl takes drivers onto public lands throughout San Juan County. Participants can choose from guided trail rides in areas like Chokecherry Canyon and Largo Canyon, with routes ranging from easier scenic trails to more technical terrain.
The 4 Corners Vendor Show takes place Thursday and Friday at the Farmington Civic Center, bringing together local businesses, manufacturers, and industry representatives to showcase products, equipment, and services. Open to the public, the vendor show provides an opportunity to learn more about the off-road industry and connect with those who support the hobby.
Friday evening, the Off-Road Downtown Takeover brings Jeeps, trucks, UTVs and other off-road vehicles to downtown Farmington. The gathering gives community members the chance to see a variety of builds, visit with enthusiasts and experience the excitement of the local off- road culture.
The weekend concludes in Chokecherry Canyon with the W.E. Rock Grand Nationals on Sept. 12 and 13. The rock-crawling competition brings skilled drivers from across the country to compete on challenging obstacles, including massive boulders and steep ledges. The Ultimate Performance UTV Side-by-Side ShootOut will also take place Saturday evening, adding another level of competition for spectators.
The landscape surrounding Farmington is a major part of what makes Four Corners 4×4 Week possible. Local trails and public lands have been enjoyed by off-road enthusiasts for decades and provide a variety of experiences for drivers of different skill levels.
One of the area’s most popular destinations is the Glade Run Recreation Area. Covering thousands of acres of public land, the Glade features sandy washes, slickrock, rolling hills and desert trails. The area is also enjoyed year-round by hikers, mountain bikers, horseback riders and campers.
Within the Glade is Chokecherry Canyon, a well-known destination for technical rock crawling. Its natural rock formations and challenging obstacles have made it the home of the W.E. Rock Grand Nationals and a favorite area for experienced drivers.
Largo Canyon, located east of Farmington, is another area highlighted during Four Corners 4×4 Week. The canyon features scenic trails, sandy washes, historic sites and incredible desert views. The area’s mix of terrain provides opportunities for both recreation and exploration.
For more than 40 years, off-road enthusiasts have explored the trails and public lands around Farmington. The area’s diverse terrain continues to attract those looking for outdoor adventure while showcasing the natural landscapes that make the region unique.
Behind Four Corners 4×4 Week is the dedication of the CliffHangers Four Wheel Drive Club, a local organization that has supported off-roading in Farmington for decades. The club organizes rides and events while also promoting responsible recreation, trail access, and the preservation of public lands.
Local businesses also play an important role in supporting the event and the off-road community. Ultimate Performance UTV, a locally owned business specializing in side-by-side parts, accessories, service and custom builds, is one example of a business that helps connect enthusiasts with the products and services they need.
Four Corners 4×4 Week is more than an event. It is a celebration of a community that values adventure, responsible recreation, and the public lands that surround Farmington. For more information visit FarmingtonNM.org/events/four-corners-4×4-week.