Colorado Plateau

The Colorado Plateau is a vast and geologically diverse region centered around the Four Corners, encompassing southwestern Colorado, northwestern New Mexico, southeastern Utah, and northern Arizona. Within Arizona, the Colorado Plateau refers to the northern portion of the state, where expansive high desert landscapes, deep canyons, and dramatic rock formations define the terrain.

This region is home to some of the most iconic canyon systems in the world, including the Grand Canyon, which serves as the centerpiece of the plateau. Nearly all drainages and waterways within this area ultimately flow into the Colorado River or its major tributaries, shaping the landscape over millions of years.

The Colorado Plateau contains an extraordinary concentration of protected lands, including 10 National Parks and 17 National Monuments. These areas preserve the region’s unique geology, cultural history, and extensive canyon networks, making it one of the premier destinations for canyon exploration and outdoor recreation in the United States.