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Monument Valley remained relatively unknown until the 1930s when it caught the eye of filmmaker John Ford. Enamored by its allure, Ford selected this scenic location as the backdrop for his renowned Western film, Stagecoach. Subsequently, Monument Valley became a recurring setting in numerous Ford productions and an iconic representation of the American West.
Monument Valley is renowned for its stunning red sandstone formations and sweeping vistas, which embody the quintessential essence of the Southwest. It is a must-visit destination and an absolute highlight on any Southwest road trip. In this comprehensive guide, discover everything you need to know before embarking on a Monument Valley scenic drive.
What is Monument Valley?
Monument Valley is one of the Southwest’s most photographed landscapes. The park, belonging to the Navajo Nation, spans 30,000 acres (47 sq mi) across Arizona and Utah within the Colorado Plateau. It is proudly designated as a tribal park, known in the Navajo language as Tsé Biiʼ Ndzisgaii, which translates to the Valley of Rocks.
This awe-inspiring Monument Valley showcases an array of magnificent rock formations, specifically red sandstone buttes and mesas. These remarkable geological wonders have evolved over millions of years due to the forces of erosion, resulting in the breathtaking formations. The largest butte soars an impressive 1,000 feet (305 m) above the valley floor.
How to Get to Monument Valley
Embarking on a Monument Valley scenic drive is an incredible experience, but planning your route is important for a seamless adventure. Nestled along the Arizona-Utah border, Monument Valley is accessible via various transportation options. The most popular way is to include it on a southwest road trip – the park sits conveniently off US-163. However, if you’re traveling from afar, reaching the valley may entail flying into a nearby airport and renting a vehicle.
There are a handful of airports to choose from but the best option is Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX). The drive from Phoenix to Monument Valley is 330 mi (531.084) and takes about 5 hours. There are some beautiful stops along the way such as the Grand Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, and Antelope Canyon. Make sure you allow yourself time to explore. Flagstaff Pulliam Airport (FLG), is the closest airport, however, it requires a connecting flight and then roughly 3 hours of driving.
Other options include airports in Las Vegas, Salt Lake City, or Albuquerque, each varying in distance and driving time. Regardless of your starting point, a road trip to Monument Valley promises picturesque landscapes and captivating pit stops along the way.
- McCarran International Airport (LAS), Las Vegas: 410 mi
- Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) – 390 mi
- Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ) – 330 mi
Monument Valley Scenic Drive
Exploring Monument Valley offers two options: guided excursions led by knowledgeable Navajo guides or independent exploration through a self-guided tour. The latter, known as the Valley Drive, is a straightforward 17 mi (27 km) scenic loop, perfect for self-navigation. The drive takes 2-4 hours, depending on how long you spend at each stop.
Tour arrangements or back-country permits are necessary to venture beyond the loop. The land belongs to the Navajo Nation and trespassing is strictly prohibited. Abiding by the rules established by the Navajo government is essential for all visitors. Guided tours, including sunrise and sunset options along with photography tours, are available for those seeking a group experience.
I highly recommend a self-guided tour or a Monument Valley scenic drive. The loop is entirely unpaved, so expect a bumpy and dusty ride. I underestimated the terrain’s ruggedness and failed to consider road and weather conditions when renting a vehicle. I managed the drive in a small, compact car without major obstacles, but a sturdier 4×4 vehicle would have been more comfortable.
General admission to the park is $8 per person, per vehicle. Upon entry, a map outlining key points of interest along the loop will be provided.
What to See in Monument Valley
Monument Valley’s scenic drive unfolds through a series of 11 distinctive points, each offering its own unique view. Among these, John Ford Point stands out as an iconic stop, synonymous with the Westerns crafted by filmmaker John Ford. Photo opportunities of a horse and cowboy are available for a fee.
Merrick, East Mitten, and West Mitten Buttes form a striking trio, with East and West Mitten resembling mittens when viewed from the south. Artist Pointe provides a panoramic view of the West Mitten Butte, East Mitten Butte, and Merrick Butte, serving as a prime location for sunrise.
These are just a few highlights among the 11 lookout points. Other points include Elephant Butte, Three Sisters, Camel Butte, The Hub, North Window, Totem Pole and Sand Spring, and Totem Pole and Yei be Chei.
How Many Days at Monument Valley?
The Monument Valley scenic drive is a magical experience and deserves a place on your southwest road trip, whether it be for a day or a weekend. Deciding on the ideal amount of time to spend at Monument Valley largely depends on the depth of exploration and personal preferences. While it’s possible to complete the Monument Valley scenic drive and see the major attractions within a day, more time allows for a better experience.
I recommend spending one night. One night will allow you to fully appreciate its beauty and captivating landscapes. It will give you a full day to explore and will allow you to experience stunning sunrise or sunset views. Extending your stay to two or more days enables a deeper dive into the area’s cultural heritage, engaging in guided backcountry tours, embarking on additional hikes, and allowing time to relax without feeling rushed.
While driving in and around Monument Valley, I noticed the time on my phone changing. It’s important to be aware of the time differences between Arizona, Utah, and the Navajo Nation when planning your trip. Arizona does not observe daylight saving time and uses standard mountain time. Utah and Navajo lands, however, do observe daylight saving. This is something you will want to keep in mind, especially if you have tours planned.
Best Time to Visit Monument Valley
Monument Valley has a desert climate with hot summers and cold winters. The best time to visit Monument Valley typically falls during the spring and fall seasons. From March to May and then again from September to November, the weather tends to be milder, offering comfortable temperatures for exploring the valley. During these seasons, you can avoid the scorching summer heat and the heavier crowds that typically arrive in the warmer months.
Spring and fall also provide ideal conditions for capturing stunning photographs and enjoying outdoor activities like hiking and sightseeing without enduring extreme temperatures. However, keep in mind that spring months (April to June) might experience stronger winds in the region.
Winter, spanning from December to February, can bring colder temperatures and occasional light snowfall. Although it’s less crowded during this time, some facilities and tours might have limited availability due to the off-peak season.
Summer (June to August) tends to be the busiest period, attracting more tourists. While the days are long and warm, temperatures can soar, making outdoor activities more challenging. If visiting during summer, plan for early morning or late afternoon excursions to avoid the peak heat and crowds.
Where to Eat in Monument Valley
In Monument Valley, dining options are limited. The primary dining venues are The View Restaurant and Stagecoach Restaurant, both situated within the Valley’s lodging establishments. The View Restaurant is known for its incredible panoramic views overlooking the valley and offers a mix of Navajo-inspired dishes and classic American cuisine such as burgers and sandwiches.
The Stagecoach Restaurant also offers a selection of Navajo-inspired dishes alongside familiar American fare. While the food at these establishments is fairly average, the incredible views from The View Restaurant make it a favored choice for visitors. It’s important to check their operating hours, as they may have specific timings for each meal service.
Where to Stay in Monument Valley
In Monument Valley, there are few lodging options but the two most popular offer guests a chance to immerse themselves in the area’s natural beauty. Both establishments fill up quickly, so it’s advisable to make reservations well in advance. For those unable to secure lodging within the valley, towns like Kayenta and Page offer additional accommodation options, allowing visitors to enjoy Monument Valley as a day trip from these areas.
The View Hotel is a favorite for its exceptional location, offering guests breathtaking views of the iconic Monument Valley landscape. The lodge features rooms with private balconies or patios, enabling visitors to take in the stunning scenery.
Guests can also enjoy an on-site restaurant, serving locally inspired cuisine, and access to guided tours of the valley. As the only hotel located within Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park, it provides an excellent experience for those looking to explore the natural beauty and cultural significance of the area.
Goulding’s Lodge offers a wide range of accommodations, including regular rooms, suites, and camping or RV sites, catering to different budgets. The lodge holds historical significance as John Wayne’s preferred choice when visiting Monument Valley.
In addition to its variety of lodging options, Goulding’s has a restaurant, grocery store, and visitor center, making it a convenient base for exploring the valley. Guests can also take advantage of guided tours and cultural experiences.
La Quinta by Wyndham in Page is an excellent choice for travelers seeking comfort and convenience. Located just two hours from Monument Valley, it offers easy access to this iconic landmark. A stay in Page also provides the opportunity to explore nearby natural wonders, including Horseshoe Bend, Antelope Canyon, and Lake Powell. With modern amenities and a central location, La Quinta serves as a great base for discovering surrounding areas.
Tips & Other Things to Know
- You will want to check the official site of the Navajo Nation for park hours and Navajo holidays before planning your visit.
- Avoid wearing sandals. It’s very dusty and sneakers will be much more comfortable.
- Don’t forget to bring water, a jacket, and sunscreen. Don’t underestimate the sun and wind.
- Entry to the park is $8 per person/ per day.
Have you done a Monument Valley scenic drive? What did you think? If you’ve enjoyed this post, please leave a comment or share using the social media buttons below. Looking for more southwest road trip stops? Continue to my post, “6 Incredible Things to Do in Page, AZ.”
Amazing photos….so rustic!
Thank you!
We visited Utah last year but didn’t have time to explore Monument Valley. I will be saving this for when we return! :)