page to monument valley tour

Lake Powell/Page to Monument Valley and Grand Canyon Aerial Tour (PMGP1)

Quick Details

• Map Marker Departure City: Lake Powell/Page
• User Ages: Ages 2+
• Hour Glass Duration: 3 hours
• Users Passenger Minimum: 3 passengers

Monument Valley and Grand Canyon combo flight

From page – flight code: (pmgp1).

• Scenic, narrated flight
• Lake Powell
• Navajo Mountain
• Monument Valley
• Grand Canyon
• Marble Canyon
• Wahweap Marina

Flights may make additional stops.

Tour Itinerary

This scenic flight leaves Page airport, providing great views of the turquoise waters and sandstone cliffs of Lake Powell and Navajo Mountain before heading to Monument Valley for an overflight of the Navajo Tribal Park and the Monuments.

Continue on over the rugged canyon lands, and table mesas of the Navajo Reservation en route to the Grand Canyon. Enjoy a spectacular overflight of the Grand Canyon along a special route that only a few companies are allowed to fly, through the widest and deepest parts of the Canyon.

Finally, continue on up Marble Canyon before landing back at the Page Airport.

This tour will be booked on a first-come/first-served basis. We will confirm the availability with you after booking.

Related Air Tours

• Hour Glass 1-1.5 hours
• User Ages 2+
• Map Marker Lake Powell/Page

Page to Grand Canyon (PGP1)

Enjoy this 90-minute aerial tour from Page to the Grand Canyon! Fly over the beautiful, rugged Arizona landscape where your pilot will narrate your journey and describe the landmarks below.

• Hour Glass 1.5 hours

Page to Monument Valley (PMP1)

The stark, rugged, and breathtaking vistas of the Southwest await you on this scenic aerial tour that departs from Page, Arizona. Fly over Glen Canyon Dam and Monument Valley.

Explore Monument Valley Tours »

Monument Valley

Monument Valley might be the most iconic images of the American Southwest. If you're planning on visiting and want a logistical run down of how to make it happen, here it is. Monument Valley is located on the Arizona and Utah borders in the Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park. There is only one main road through Monument Valley, US 163, which offers the most famous images of Monument Valley. Once you get the park itself, there is an admission fee:

• Per Vehicle Pass: $20 per non-commercial vehicle up to 4 people ($6 each additional passenger)
• Per Individual Pass: $10 per walk-in, bicycle, or motorcycle
• Commercial Pass: (based on capacity of vehicle)
• 1-4 Passengers: $35 (additional $6 each)

Once you're in the park, you'll want to do the Valley Drive. It's basically the only road visitors can drive on without a tour guide. This road is rough but drivable without 4WD; but after a good rain fall, this road is nearly undrivable even for the most capable of vehicles. Valley Drive is 17 miles of dirt road which starts at the visitor center and heads southeast amongst the towering cliffs and mesas. It takes you past 11 numbered stops at the most scenic places, one of the most famous being Totem Pole, the 450 ft spire that is only a few meters wide. A typical journey around the loop takes at least 2 hours. Visitors are not allowed to hike away from the road closer towards any of the formations on the Valley Drive, but there are several guided tours that do take guests on hikes. Typical rates for guided tours begin around $75 for a 2 hour trip and can includes exploring ancient cave and cliff dwellings, natural arches, and even petroglyphs. This is the basic Monument Valley experience. Some visitors get their fill of this magnificent area just by driving the Valley Drive and taking picutres, other guests crave a true Southwest or Native American cultural experience. If you are the latter, it is recommended that you purchase your guided tour and lodging from one of the small Navajo ran businesses. For each visitor who has gone this route, there tends to be a unique and special story that comes out of it.

Going on a guided tour of Monument Valley is highly recommended. Because Monument Valley is on Navajo land, much of the terrain is off limits to visitors without a guide. Part of the reason for this is to preserve the ancient rock formations and the cultural hertiage of this land, but the other reason is because Monument Valley tours and lodging is a source of inccome for the Navajo who live here. It is a priviledge to experience such a spectacular place, and paying for a tour is a great way to preserve and respect this land and its people. Almost everyone who has been on a guided tour has found it very worth while. The ability to walk among the rock formations, through arches, by cliff dwellings and petroglyphs is special, second only to the stories your Navajo guides will share with you. Many of these tours are customizable or even pre-taylored to some of the most popular activities such as photography, horse trail riding or geology tours. No matter which tour you choose, it will certainly be worthwhile.

There are only a couple of options for lodging in Monument Valley. There are two hotels, some cabins, and several camping/RV options. The nearest town is Kayenta, which has a couple more hotels that are more familiar brands. But booking your stay with a Navajo tour company that offers camping on their land is also an incredible experience for those who do not require any amenities. Backcountry permits are also available for those who wish to camp at designated campsites within the park. Find and book Monument Valley hotels, camping and backcountry permits .

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Experience Sedona, Monument Valley & Antelope Canyon on this 3-day package through some of the most unique and stunning landscapes of the American West.

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• Experience the stunning upper Antelope Canyon

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Monument Valley

Quick Details

• Hour Glass Duration: 90 Minutes
• User Ages: Ages 6+

Discover Native Architecture on a Monument Valley Tour

The flight will start with many of the same sights as on our 40 minute lake tour. Once reaching Cathedral Canyon the tour will then continue on past Rainbow Bridge and follow the San Juan River into Monument Valley where the passengers will see many monuments such as Mitchell Butte, the East and West Mittens, along with the highway used in many movies, including Forrest Gump and Easy Rider.

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Go on Antelope Air’s tour of Bryce Canyon to see geological rock formations called hoodoos, natural amphitheaters, and more from above. This tour has limited availability, with only a few flights per year!

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Embark on a 45 min aerial journey of Dangling Rope Marina and marvel at Rainbow Bridge. Book a tour from Page, AZ airport today with Antelope Air!

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Join Antelope Air’s 50 min tour of Reflection Canyon in Utah. Witness the enchanting waterway that can mirror the sky.

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Discover the wonders of White Pocket, Coyote Buttes North, Yellow Rock, and Alstrom Point on Antelope Air’s extended Wave 90 min plane tour.

• +1 (928) 256 0008
• Antelope Canyon & Monument Valley

Upper Antelope Canyon

The most popular slot canyon in overall visitation. At a mere 100 yards in length and mostly flat, the slot canyon itself is walkable by the vast majority of tourists for both young and old.

Lower Antelope Canyon

As beautiful as Upper Antelope Canyon. Located below-ground in more of a “V” shaped configuration. Visitors must descend the equivalent of 3-4 flights of stairs to access the canyon.

Antelope Canyon X

Witness the same soaring walls and windy labyrinth paths as the popular Upper and Lower Antelope Canyon with one key difference — far fewer crowds.

Antelope Canyon Tickets

Instant Confirmation Lower Antelope Canyon Tickets and Tours

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Antelope Canyon Tours

• Multiple Choices

Antelope Canyon Tour Packages

Options to visit Upper Antelope Canyon, Lower Antelope Canyon, or Canyon X. Plenty of time slots to fit into your travel planning.

• Morning Tour - 9:00AM ~ 9:30AM
• Prime Time - 11:30AM ~ 12:00PM
• Afternoon Tour - 1:30PM ~ 2:00PM
• Morning Tour - 9:30AM ~ 10:00AM
• Prime Time - 12:00PM ~ 12:30PM
• Afternoon Tour-2:00PM ~ 2:30PM

Monument Valley Tours Combo

Comfortable air-conditioned car transfer from your hotel in Page, visit Antelope Canyon and then to Monument Valley.

Monument Valley Round Trip Only

• [6.00AM pick-up] Monument Valley Round Trip Only

Monument Valley Packages

• [6.00AM pick-up] Monument Valley Jeep In-depth Tour 1.5 Hours

Monument Valley Loop Drive Tour

• Closely see tall spectacular monuments and enjoy fantastic natural lanscapes

Navajo Deep Hiking Tours Local

Mountain Sheep, Rattlesnake & Owl Slot Canyon.

Mountain Sheep Slot Canyon

• [8:30AM ~ 3:30PM] 2 Hours Hiking Tour

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Why we’re the best.

Can't find Antelope Canyon tickets anywhere? Want to get knowledgeable about geological history? Leave it to us! You just have to relax and enjoy the perfect vacation.

Canyon Tickets: INCLUDED

Hotel pickup: included, parking fee: included, water & snacks: included, welcome to roaming navajo.

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Roaming Navajo committed to help visitors have the best tour experience possible so they can go home with happy memories and newfound knowledge that they can cherish for a lifetime.

Free shuttle from most hotels in downtown Page. A comfortable air-conditioned Van, professional Navajo guide, and more important - warm service.

Antelope Canyon Tickets and Horseshoe Bend parking fees included. No more worries and no more searchings!

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Provides masks which is mandatory in Navajo Nation, bottled water and snacks. What you need to do is just hop on and go!

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Roaming Navajo offers Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, and Monument Valley tours, shuttle bus, transportation service in Page, Arizona.

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Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park

Navajo nation park & recreation.

While visiting the Monument Valley, you will need to try the 17-mile loop drive for a view of the scenic beauty and magnificent formations. Currently, with the monsoon season we want all travelers to know that the valley drive has very rough terrain and deep sand dunes.  Motorcycles/RV’s are Prohibited on the loop drive, due to the rough terrain and deep sand dunes. We ask that travelers be prepared for long wait times and inclement weather during the peak season. Which begins in the months of  May to September, the high volume of travelers will create some wait time. So please be cognizant of your surroundings and please obey all signs, stay on designated routes; stay hydrated and stay safe. The safety of our public and community is our utmost importance. Also, wear appropriate attire as the weather is unpredictable and can change at any time. Wearing a hat, t-shirt, long sleeves and tennis shoes will keep you comfortable and avoid the elements. Including, staying hydrated and have water on you at all times which makes you less prone to heat exhaustion and dehydration.

Welcome to the Navajo Nation’s Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park. You are experiencing one of the most majestic – and most photographed – points on earth. This great valley boasts sandstone masterpieces that tower at heights of 400 to 1,000 feet, framed by scenic clouds casting shadows that graciously roam the desert floor. The angle of the sun accents these graceful formations, providing scenery that is simply spellbinding.

The landscape overwhelms, not just by its beauty but also by its size. The fragile pinnacles of rock are surrounded by miles of mesas and buttes, shrubs and trees, and windblown sand, all comprising the magnificent colors of the valley. All of this harmoniously combines to make Monument Valley a truly wondrous experience. Enjoy this beautiful land. While on your travel stop and take a look at some of our vendors on the loop road. Our vendors have beautiful hand crafted jewelry and more. You can buy direct from the artisan, which makes your travel experience so much more to have a momentous keepsake with you while at home.

Navajo Name: Tse’Bii’Ndzisgaii – Monument Valley

Hiking Trails : Wildcat Trail 1.5 miles (Sign in/out at Visitor Center).

Monument Valley Hours of Operation:

Park/administration office:   8:00 am to 5:00 pm. monday-friday.

Winter Hours-

Scenic Drive: 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, Monday – Sunday. Last Entry at 2:30 pm, Daily.

Tour Booth: 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, Monday – Sunday.

Summer Hours-

Scenic Drive: 7:00 am to 7:00 pm, Monday – Sunday. Last Entry: 4:30 pm, Daily.

Tour Operator Booth: 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, Monday – Sunday.

Monument Valley Closures:

We are Closed during all major Holidays in accordance with the Navajo Nation.

• Thanksgiving Day
• Christmas Day
• New Year’s Day

Elevation: 5,564 feet above sea level

GPS Coordinates: N 37.00414 W 110.09889

Backcountry Permit: A Backcountry Permit can be obtained from the Visitor Center, and for San Juan River Permit it can be purchased at the Welcome Center.  Please sign in/out prior to Hiking.  Please proceed with extreme caution. 

Navajo Parks and Recreation is not liable for any damage to vehicle while in loop drive or on Navajo Tribal Park land.

Special Use Permit: Needed for all other types of Land Usage. Photography,  Filming, Weddings, and Paintings.  Please stop by Visitor Center for more information.

Size:  91,696 acres (spans across Utah & Arizona)

Entry Fee: $8 per person, per day.

Additional person: $8 per person, per day, per location.  (subject to change)..

Before human existence, the Park was once a lowland basin. For hundreds of millions of years, materials that eroded from the early Rock Mountains deposited layer upon layer of sediment which cemented a slow and gentle uplift, generated by ceaseless pressure from below the surface, elevating these horizontal strata quite uniformly one to three miles above sea level. What was once a basin became a plateau.

Natural forces of wind and water that eroded the land spent the last 50 million years cutting into and peeling away at the surface of the plateau. The simple wearing down of altering layers of soft and hard rock slowly revealed the natural wonders of Monument Valley today.

From the visitor center, you see the world-famous panorama of the Mitten Buttes and Merrick Butte. You can also purchase guided tours from Navajo tour operators, who take you down into the valley in Jeeps for a narrated cruise through these mythical formations. Places such as Ear of the Wind and other landmarks can only be accessed via guided tours. During the summer months, the visitor center also features Haskenneini Restaurant, which specializes in both native Navajo and American cuisines, and a film/snack/souvenir shop. There are year-round restroom facilities. One mile before the center, numerous Navajo vendors sell arts, crafts, native food, and souvenirs at roadside stands.

Buy local, Buy Navajo!

SCAN QR CODE FOR MONUMENT  VALLEY MAP

Road Trip to Monument Valley: Where to Stay, the Best Tour + Sunrise AND Sunset

It’s been on my travel bucket list to go to Monument Valley FOREVER. 

I don’t even remember the first time I saw photos of Monument Valley. Probably in a classic old western…John Wayne and Clint Eastwood both filmed a handful of movies here. Ansel Adams took the most famous photographs. And of course there was Forrest Gump. 

Monument Valley is incredibly iconic. Maybe one of the most iconic American landscapes out there. In a land of exceptional landscapes (the American Southwest is one of the dreamiest places on the planet), Monument Valley stands out as truly special. 

And I finally got to see it!

Monument Valley is a Navajo Tribal Park on the Navajo Reservation along the Utah and Arizona border. 

Surprisingly it’s not a National Park. But after doing Utah’s “Big 5” plus the Grand Canyon, I can honestly say that Monument Valley is every bit as impressive (maybe more so) than the legendary National Parks that surround it. 

It’s also pretty remote. This isn’t a spot where you’re going to fly into a major airport and pop over for a quick visit. It takes some planning. 

The best way to see Monument Valley is on a road trip through the southwest. 

Monument Valley Road Trip 

Here’s everything you need to know about adding Monument Valley to your epic southwest road trip: 

How to Get to Monument Valley

Like I said, Monument Valley is kind of in the middle of nowhere. It’s about 2.5 hours from Moab, UT, about 3 hours from Gallup, NM, and about 2 hours from Page, AZ. 

If you’re doing a southwest road trip, the best way to squeeze it in is probably while driving between Moab, UT and Page, AZ. 

If you’re plotting out a big road trip of all the best sights in southern UT and northern AZ while flying in and out of Las Vegas, my perfect itinerary would look like: 

Las Vegas > Valley of Fire State Park > Zion > Bryce Canyon > Capitol Reef > Moab (Arches & Canyonland) > Monument Valley > Page (Antelope Canyon) > Grand Canyon > Las Vegas

How Long Do You Need at Monument Valley?

If you’re not doing a big loop, it’s still doable as a day trip from either Moab or Page. 

Driving south on Highway 163 from Utah to Arizona is where you’ll stop for “Forrest Gump Point.” 

Mobs of cars (and even tour buses) pull over on the side of the road for people to take pictures. It’s actually pretty chaotic with people running out into the middle of the road for photos. But you’ve gotta get that shot! 

This is a 15 minute photo stop, max. And it’s not even actually the heart of Monument Valley. 

Many Navajo actually live on the valley floor, so access beyond the highway is somewhat limited. There’s a 17-mile scenic loop that’s the main attraction. 

It’s $8/person to enter and it’s recommended you have 4WD or at least a high clearance vehicle (I saw a few small cars). Most people spend 2-4 hours driving the loop. With your admission you can also access a visitor center and trading post at the View hotel and it’s a MAGNIFICENT VIEW. 

So, you can really see most of Monument Valley in about 3-4 hours (there’s very limited hiking in the area so it’s mostly just the drive). 

The caveat here is that sunrises and sunsets are SPECTACULAR at Monument Valley so if you’re coming all the way then you really should spend the night so you can experience both. 

You can watch both from the viewing decks built around The View hotel. Everyone is welcome for sunset, but sunrise is just for hotel guests (the gates to the park don’t open until 8 AM). 

Where to Stay at Monument Valley

Opens are pretty limited if you want to stay right near Monument Valley. 

By far the best option is The View . This place was built to offer you, hands down, the best view of Monument Valley. You’ll see the most famous view of Monument Valley right from your balcony!!

There’s a restaurant onsite (with free breakfast) plus this is where the big trading post is. Besides people staying at the hotel, this is the main tourism hub for people coming to do the 17-mile scenic loop drive. 

Now, it’s not cheap…in mid September I paid about $400/night for an upper floor monument view room, but I think it’s worth it. 

The rooms are nice (but dated), but you’re 100% here for the view. It is magnificent. 

**Wait to do your shopping at the trading post until after you check in because they’ll give you a 20% off coupon. 

Goulding’s Lodge is another good option. Harry and Mike Goulding bought the land in Monument Valley in the 1920s and started a trading post with the local Navajo. They were instrumental in bringing Hollywood to Monument Valley and built the first tourism amenities in the area. It’s not quite as nice at the View (and the view isn’t quite as good), but it’s still the best option if you can’t get a room at the View.

There’s also a KOA campground just north of Monument Valley. 

If you want more of a resort experience that’s a base camp to explore the surrounding area, I would take a look at the Bluff Dwellings Resort & Spa . It’s about an hour from Monument Valley, but it looks really nice. 

Do You Need a Tour? 

Tours aren’t required to drive the 17-mile scenic loop, but there are guided tours that will take you beyond the scenic loop into the back country. 

We had a Jeep and I felt confident in being able to do the full scenic loop, but after doing some research, we decided to do a guided tour instead. 

I booked the extended three hour sunset tour with Monument Valley Tribal Tours and it included a lot of the scenic drive loop plus a trip to the back country. And I think it was totally worth it. 

Honestly, you’ll be able to see the most iconic parts of Monument Valley just on the beginning of the scenic drive but some of the most special parts are in the back country. 

All of the pictures below are things you’ll only see on a back country tour. 

In mid September, the sunset tour was from 3 PM to 7 PM. We got to Monument Valley about noon and had plenty of time to take pictures at Forrest Gump Point, shop at the trading post, get checked into the View, see Goulding’s, and have lunch (the View has minimal offerings at lunch but there are food trucks over by Goulding’s) before our tour. 

It’s a good idea to have cash and small bills with you. The photo op on the horse at John Ford’s point is $10/person plus you’ll want to tip your tour guide and maybe even leave some donations at the hogan and other places. 

Tour Monument Valley with a Navajo guide (1.5hr TSNGT)

• Poncho if needed
• Navajo Guides
• All our guides either live locally and also live in close surrounding areas of Monument Valley.
• Park Entrance Fee is not included in the tour price, fee is separate.
• Sometimes restroom facilities are not available when on tour.
• Entry/Admission - Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park
• Monument Valley Tribal Park Visitor Center, U.S. 163 Scenic, Oljato-Monument Valley, AZ 84536, USA Pick-Up is at the Monument Valley Visitor Center parking lot. At the West end of the parking lot, there is a turquoise kiosk/booth with "Guided Vehicle Tours and Information" painted on it. Go to the kiosk/booth, check-in, and wait for your guide. Contact us if you got a problem.
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Stroller accessible
• Service animals allowed
• Infant seats available
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Not recommended for travelers with back problems
• Most travelers can participate
• Please put contact information on your reservation. We may need to contact you. If you can put your email information in as well in the notes. Thank you
• Cell service is not so good here at times so we receive text message as well to contact us or you can email us at [email protected].
• Park Entrance fee is not included with the price
• This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
• This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 15 travelers
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
• Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park

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• You'll start at Monument Valley Tribal Park Visitor Center U.S. 163 Scenic, Oljato-Monument Valley, AZ 84536, USA Pick-Up is at the Monument Valley Visitor Center parking lot. At the West end of the parking lot, there is a turquoise kiosk/booth with "Guided Vehicle Tours and Information" painted on it. Go to the kiosk/booth, check-in, and wait for your guide. Contact us if you got a problem. See address & details
• 1 Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park Stop: 10 minutes - Admission excluded Our team will take you on 15 miles of rough terrain sharing with you movie locations, Monument names, cultural and Navajo traditions. 5-10 mins is spent at each stop for great pictures. Read more
• You'll return to the starting point

• BTurner4646 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles The only way to learn about the Anasazi in the Monument Valley area Shannon has been guiding tours in the Monument Valley since she was a teenager working with her mother. Shannon is a mother, guide and business owner who clearly loves this beautiful area and its long history. There are many hidden Anasazi ruins in this area that are impossible to see without an expert guide. Shannon is that expert guide. We brought along our dogs, and Shannon was very kind and patient with them as she expertly navigated difficult roads to show us many hidden sites. If you love Chimney Rock National Monument. Mesa Verde, Canyon of the Ancients, Hovenweep National Monument, and Bandolier National Monument; you will love this tour! Read more Written April 8, 2024
• tnelledavis 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles The quickest 2.5 hours Vernon was a wonderful guide with so much insight and personal history with the region and particularly in this park. I would recommend a tour with him to anyone, especially if you want a guide that is very knowledgeable. Read more Written March 19, 2024
• X4551CYrobertp 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles So worth it 10/10 recommend. Our guide Ken was amazing. He was very knowledgeable about the valley and shared many stories and insights. The places they take you off the main loop are beautiful. And the hogan visit was very informative. Will definitely come back again Read more Written March 2, 2024
• R4593PPkellys 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Definitely worth it Thoroughly enjoyed the tour. I enjoyed it enough to schedule another one as soon as I could. If I were to return, I would schedule with them again. Highly recommended. Read more Written February 15, 2024
• Joe J 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Monument Valley January 4 hour morning tour Excellent Navajo guide. On time and with many stories about growing up and living in the Valley. Also many stories about the movies that have been filmed in the Valley. Read more Written January 16, 2024
• NosherNeil 0 contributions 1.0 of 5 bubbles A MUST TO AVOID Do not use this company. The guide did not show and we were promised a full refund. We received no refund. AVOID! Read more Written January 8, 2024
• llibecurb 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Highly recommended tour! We thoroughly enjoyed our Three Sister Navajo Guided tour of Monument Valley. We booked a private 2.5 hour tour, so we could take our dog along. Our guide, Chris, did a great job, sharing not only the history of Monument Valley but also his personal story living in the area. We learned much about the Navajo culture and beliefs, and traveled back into some beautiful remote area. The drive through Monument Valley would have been much too rough for our Honda CRV, so we really appreciated being able to just sit back and enjoy the breathtaking scenery while our guide, Chris, handled the challenging drive! Read more Written November 9, 2023
• mini6322 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Excellent Half Day Private Tour of Monument Valley with Three Sisters Navajo Guided Tours Utilized the Three Sisters Navajo Guided Tour website to research the respective tour options they offered. Had some additional questions since traveling with pet and decided to call their published number. Cory was there to assist. She was very patient with our questions and extremely helpful with tour recommendations to meet our desires. Made the online reservations about 3 weeks ahead of our late Sept visit. We got a reminder e-mail a few days before our scheduled tour date outlining the meeting location and time. Met our assigned guide, Chris, at the turquoise kiosk. Thought he was great, very knowledgeable, flexible and personable. Learned about some of his dineh heritage & culture, saw the monuments & highlights along the scenic drive, learned the history of the valley, ventured to the restricted area to view many arches, anasazi ruins, several petroglyphs &/or pictographs as well as had time to visit a traditional hogan where a woman (missed her introduction) explained some traditions and typical activities of the Navajo families. Can’t say enough about the full experience with Three Sisters Navajo Guided Tours; found them very accommodating. First time doing a private tour and it was well worth it. Totally get & agree with others recommendation of having a navajo guided tour over doing a self guided tour. Read more Written November 5, 2023
• 495karined 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great tour ! Very nice tour with our guide, she took the time to take pictures of us and to tell us some stories about Indian lifestyle and of her own family. Read more Written November 5, 2023
• Z1665ORthomash 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Tour with the Light chaser Pick up at 6 for 3 hours of discovering monument Valley, the best photos spots at the perfect time with "the light chaser". A great moment in a majestic area Read more Written October 20, 2023
• ronaldkF3640XZ 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Rough and ready, open air, filled with so many astounding sights. We were scheduled for a group sunset tour through Monument Valley. However, only the two of us showed up. Clint, our Dine guide, gave us a fabulous tour through the valley, telling us lore, Native history and culture and made stops at so many places where we could alight from his tour bus and take many pictures. He was just great! It was one of the true highlights of our trip and I would say, completely moving and transformative. Thank you so much, Clint!!! Read more Written October 19, 2023
• Y2046PCandreww 0 contributions 3.0 of 5 bubbles Bad end to the tour Went on the stargazing tour 9th October. Good to see so many stars and the milky way galaxy. However at the end of the tour gave the guide a tip and he just looked at the note and drove off. No thanks, bye or anything. Maybe he wanted more, but he was so rude at the end. Read more Written October 9, 2023
• J7576AXtammys 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Three Sisters Tours It was fantastic. Well prepared and right on time. Clint was a great guide. He took us to some gorgeous views and was great working with the lighting so we could get some awesome pictures. Definitely recommend. Read more Written October 8, 2023
• bsb61 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles First rate tour operator provided us with a superb tour experience from beginning to end. Magnificent scenery interpreted by knowledgeable indigenous guide who shared personal and cultural history of the area. Read more Written October 4, 2023
• A5778GUjohns 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Unforgettable Tour Experience!! 3 Navajo Sisters provided us with an amazing tour experience. We did the full-day tour, and loved every minute. Our guide, Ben, was great. Personable, knowledgeable, and he shated his culture and history and musoc with us. Also, he is a good. Safe, experienced driver. First time in this part of the country, and we couldn't have had a better introduction. We highly recommend 3 Navajo Sisters for a great time in this remarkable place! Read more Written September 25, 2023

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Tour Monument Valley with a Navajo guide (1.5hr TSNGT) provided by Three Sister Navajo Guided Tour

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Monument Valley Scenic Drive: The Ultimate Guide

• 2019-10-14 15:45:25

Monument Valley was a relatively unknown area until the 1930s. In 1938, John Ford, a director, fell in love with the area and chose the location for his well-known western film,  Stagecoach.  Monument Valley became an integral part of his films and was featured in many more over the years. Ford’s films made Monument Valley one of the most familiar landscapes in the United States. They really put the region on the map and were the beginning of its increasing popularity. The area’s beautiful red sandstone buttes and panoramic views have become symbolic of the American West and are usually the first thing that comes to mind when one pictures the southwest today.

Many visitors tend to drive into Utah and stop at the popular Forrest Gump Point. From here, they take advantage of the terrific photo ops and take in Monument Valley from a distance. However, Monument Valley is a place you should get up close and personal with. Trust me, you don’t want to skip over it. It will be a highlight of your southwest road trip. In this guide you will learn everything you need to know before visiting this incredible park and embarking on your own Monument Valley scenic drive.

What is Monument Valley?

Monument Valley Park is a desert region of the Colorado Plateau. It is not an official national park, but belongs to the Navajo Nation and thus, a Navajo Tribal Park. It’s a stunning collection of varying rock formations, famous for its dramatic sandstone buttes and mesas. The elevation from the valley floor ranges from 5,000 to 6,000 feet above sea level, with the largest of the buttes being 1,000 feet above the canyon floor.

Where is Monument Valley?

Monument Valley is located off the US-163, just north of the Arizona and Utah border. It’s not a difficult place to reach, but it is somewhat remote and requires a car and a little planning. It’s best done as part of a Southwest road trip. There are a handful of airports you have the option of choosing from, but your best bet is to fly into Phoenix and rent a car. The closest airport is actually Flagstaff, but a change of planes is necessary, so it is easiest to just drive directly from Phoenix. The drive from Phoenix is 330 miles and takes about five hours, but there are some great stops along the way, such as the Grand Canyon and the beautiful sights of Page, AZ. Other airport options include:

• Las Vegas – 410 mi
• Salt Lake City – 390 mi
• Albuquerque – 330 mi

How to Visit Monument Valley

There are two options when it comes to exploring Monument Valley- either with a Navajo guide or through a self-guided tour. The self-guided tour is an easy-to-follow, 17 mile scenic drive loop, referred to as the Valley Drive. If you wish to explore beyond the loop, you will need to make tour arrangements since it is tribal land. Trespassing is not allowed and visitors need to respect and abide by the rules set by the Navajo government. There are sunrise and sunset tours, as well as photography tours available to choose from.

I recommend doing a self-guided tour, or scenic drive. General admission is $20 per vehicle, up to four passengers, with each additional passenger being $6. A map of the loop will be handed to you upon entry with all the major points marked. The entire loop is completely unpaved, so be prepared for a very bumpy and dusty ride. I knew very little about Monument Valley before my visit and when renting a car, I chose a small, compact vehicle. However, I would recommend renting a 4×4. I drove very slowly and didn’t experience any major difficulties with my car, but some of the steeper hills did present more of a challenge and were somewhat worrisome. There was some rain the day before, but I definitely wouldn’t have risked it if there was significant water on the ground.

What to See in Monument Valley

There are eleven lookout points along the loop and one self-guided hiking trail in the park. It’s easy to see all the major sights on the drive. Some points that you will want to be sure not to miss are:

• John Ford Point :  John Ford Point is probably the most popular stop. It is easily recognizable from Ford’s westerns. For an additional fee you can take a photo of a horse and cowboy out on the point or even sit on the horse yourself.
• Merrick and Mitten Buttes:  The three large buttes known as Merrick, East Mitten and West Mitten are located in the same general area and form a triangle. When viewed from the south, the Mitten Buttes actually resemble mittens with thumbs facing inward.
• Artist Pointe:  This lookout has an incredible view of West Mitten Butte, East Mitten Butte, and Merrick Butte. It’s also a great spot for sunrise.

Wildcat Trail is the only self-guided hiking trail in the park. It’s a 3.2 mile loop that takes about three hours to compete. The trail offers hikers some amazing scenery and takes them to incredible views of the Mitten Buttes and Merrick Butte. There are some other trails in the area, but you will need to be accompanied by a guide to access them.

How Much Time Do I Need There?

The Valley Drive can be done in two hours, but if you want to do any hiking or exploring beyond the loop, I suggest giving yourself at least a day and stay a night in the area. Monument Valley is a gorgeous place to catch either sunrise or sunset, which makes an overnight stay totally worth it.

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 day. 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 booked.

When to Visit Monument Valley

Monument Valley has a desert climate with hot summers and cold winters. Temperatures can get high in the summer months, but it doesn’t get as hot as one would think because of the altitude. Summers, however, are the most crowded and the road is usually packed with visitors. Winters can see light snowfall, but the snow usually stays on the ground for only a day or two. Spring or fall is the ideal time to visit with mild weather. You’ll be able to avoid both the extreme temperatures and the crowds. April through June are the more windy months. I visited in May and temperatures were mild, but it was incredibly windy and made for a very dusty experience. I still had a great time; just be prepared and bring a jacket.

Where to Eat & Stay in Monument Valley

When it comes to hotels in Monument Valley, there are very few options. I would suggest The  View Hotel or Goulding’s Lodge. Both of these hotels book up well in advance and can get expensive, so I recommend making reservations as early as possible. If you find them booked, don’t let that stop you from visiting the park. I opted to use Page, AZ as a home-base and make Monument Valley a day trip, which worked out well for me. Goulding’s also offers camping with the option of an RV site or traditional tent.

When it comes to food in Monument Valley, the options are limited as well. There is The View Restaurant and Stagecoach Restaurant, which are located in the above mentioned hotels. They serve a combination of Navajo and classic plates, such as burgers. The food is pretty average. I would choose The View Restaurant, not for its food, but for its views of the valley. Be aware that the restaurants are not open at all hours and although they do serve breakfast, lunch and dinner, they have specific hours for each meal.

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.
• If you’re only driving the loop, getting out of the car isn’t really necessary, but I would wear sneakers nonetheless. It’s really dusty.
• Don’t forget to bring water and sunscreen.

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Monument Valley: The Ultimate First Timer’s Travel Itinerary

Most of you know Monument Valley because Forest Gump ran across America. Pictures of the famous Highway 163 with towering red monuments in the background are sprawled across Instagram, from the park’s 350,000 visitors a year.

What To Expect: Driving through Monument Valley was somewhat shocking for us – and we’d almost compare it to a bit of culture shock . Being from Kentucky, neither of us had spent a ton of time out West and we weren’t prepared for the spectacular landscapes. From the swirling red desert to the towering monuments… it somewhat felt surreal . On our trip through the Southwest, we had already been to the Grand Canyon and we were still overwhelmed by the beauty of it all!

Monument Valley Navajo Park stretches across the 26,000 square mile Navajo Reservation in Utah and Arizona. The entrance to the park is in Utah – but you’ll technically be driving through the Arizona side to see all of the most famous rock formations.

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO How Much Does Monument Valley Cost? $20 Per Car ** Park Hours: Hours change with the seasons. Check here. Is Monument Valley In Arizona or Utah? Both. Best Time To Go To Monument Valley? Spring and Fall. Best Hotels: Goulding’s Lodge , The View Hotel Closest Airport: Page Airport Can I Use My US National Park Pass: No

** There is an additional $6 a person fee if your car has more than 4 people, and ages 9 and under are free. This cost does not include guided tour tickets. At the time of writing this article – normal private car tours have not resumed. Make sure to book your tickets in advance! (See guided tours below!)

Navajo History

While most people know Monument Valley by its common name – the park also has a Navajo name: Tse’Bii’Ndzisgaii. No tour of these fascinating monoliths would be complete without sharing the history of the people whose land you’re driving on!

The first peoples to inhabit the area were the Anasazi Indians in 1200 B.C.E. There is still evidence of their dwellings and pictograph cave drawings in protected areas around Monument Valley. (To access these historic relics – see the Mystery Valley tour below!)

Spanish settlers from the 17-18th century frequently roamed the parts of the desert but there is little evidence that they ever entered or found Monument Valley. With frequent clashes between the Spanish and the Navajo who called themselves Dine, (in English ‘The People’), no outsiders have ever truly settled in what the Navajo considered a sacred place.

• The Spiritual Background of Monument Valley: To the Navajo people, different parts of this region represent different things spiritually. Some spaces between the monoliths were considered ‘doors’ while others were considered the hands of dieties.

The Navajo people did not officially own this tract of land until the late 1920s/early 1930s. That’s less than 100 years!! Now home to the Navajo Nation, over 100 people from the Navajo tribe still live and work in the valley to manage and preserve this natural wonder. Other Navajo Tribal Parks include Lake Powell Navajo Tribal Park, Tseyi Dine’ Heritage Area, Four Corners Monument Navajo Tribal Park, and Little Colorado River Gorge.

• FUN FACT: Wild horses can still be seen roaming in Monument Valley! The Navajo people help manage the herds that run in Utah Valley, and there are regular ponies belonging to the tribe rounded up in pens near the scenic loop.

With all that the Navajo people have endured over the years due to settlers, please be deeply respectful. Don’t carve anything into their land and practice strict Leave No Trace principles!

Monument Valley Driving Tours

If you’re doing a self-paced tour through Monument Valley – you’ll likely be able to cover the 17 miles of the park in one day. This is what we did and absolutely loved it for our first time there.

NEW REGULATIONS AS OF 2021 At the time of writing this article – the Navajo Nation had just reopened the park. To do the full 17-mile Monument Valley scenic loop drive – you will have to book a tour. Private vehicles are not allowed at this time to limit capacity and protect the health and safety of the Navajo people. Before planning your trip – make sure to book in advance with one of the tour options we’ve shared below. If you’re willing to risk getting a tour or not, you can also potentially get a spot in one of the daily tours at the parks Visitors Center. Spots are not guaranteed.

After entering the park from Highway 163, visit the visitors center to pay your $20 visitors fee. Take a moment to walk around and look at the exhibits featuring local geology and Navajo culture!

You may then start your driving tour of Monument Valley past The View Campground.

P.S. Something we loved about visiting Monument Valley that you’ll notice right away: it’s not corporate. Even with the sheer volume of people who visit every year – it’s still a local feeling operation and feels like one of the more authentic American experiences!

• Driving Speed: We went no more than 20 miles and hour throughout our entire tour. If you’re short on time – don’t plan to rush through. Just see what you can see!

Scenic Driving Points

There is so much to see on the Scenic Loop – you could go back three or four times and notice something new every time. With that being said – there are a few major formations and gorgeous viewpoints that your guide will point out right away! (Even if you’re not with a guide – most of these fascinating waypoints are pretty easily identified.)

These are the 11 major sites to be on the lookout for while driving :

NO. 1 THE MITTENS AND MERRICK BUTTE: The most recognizable and most photographed section of Monument Valley, comprised of West mitten, East Mitten and Merrick Buttes. It’s where we stopped for the first photo in this post! There is a large area where you can park on your driving tour and take photos! Highly recommend having a tripod and a wide-angle lens!!

NO.2 ELEPHANT BUTTE: Doesn’t look like an elephant but it is MASSIVE! Like the kind of thing you just do not expect to be popping up out of the ground.

NO.3 THREE SISTERS: One of our favorite shots from the trip was at Three Sisters. The sun shone perfectly through three sisters perched high on the hill with a plane trailing close by!

NO.4 JOHN FORD’S POINT

John Ford’s Point is famous for many reasons. It’s a popular horseback riding tour spot, with people getting epic shots into the Valley down below – and also a famous movie scene!! Named after the director John Ford, this scene was in Stagecoach, My Darling Clementine, She Wore a Yellow Ribbon, and many more! To get here – make sure you follow the map and take a right instead of following the trail to the left along the main Valley Trail. There are shops and such there so you’ll know you’re in the right place!

• Oljato Navajo Trading Post: Close to John Ford Point is an area with little shops and the histoic national monument ‘Oljato Navajo Trading Post’. While no longer in use – you can still grab a frybread snack from Linda’s Frybread stand closeby!!

NO.5 CAMEL BUTTE: This formation is closer to the road and allows visitors to see striations in the rock. Take a moment to think about how these monuments formed over millions of years!

NO.6 THE HUB: A phallic-shaped formation that you can’t miss. (Insert hand covering face emoji here lol..) This formation is another that’s close to the road and allows you to see layers of sediment and rock that have formed over time.

NO.7 TOTEM POLE AND YEI BE CHEI

Where Are Totem Pole and Yei Be Chei: If you look closely in the background of the photo above – you’ll see the spindly columns of red rocks that form Totem Pole and Yei Be Chei. Totem Pole is farthest to the right and the jagged line of the other column formations is Yei Be Chei. NO.8 You can also see Sand Spring from this point! Sand Spring is where you can truly experience the red sands of the desert near the parking area for the Totem Pole lookout.

NO.9 ARTISTS POINT OVERLOOK: Driving back away from Totem Pole, head towards the loop and take a right. You’ll pass another giant formation called Spearhead Mesa , and before continuing on the loop you’ll see an offshoot to the north of Spearhead Mesa . This road will take you to the viewing area for Artist’s Point. Named Artist’s Point for a reason – this spot offers picturesque views of the Northern side of Monument Valley.

NO.10 NORTH WINDOW OVERLOOK: After leaving Artist’s Point, continue back towards the scenic driving loop and take a right. The first road you come to on your right will take you to North Window Overlook. Standing between Elephant Butte (left) and Clay Butte (right), you’ll have incredible views of East Mitten Butte and small portions of Merrick Butte to the west.

NO.11 THE THUMB: When you’re done admiring the view at North Window Overlook – head back towards the scenic loop. Before you continue driving, you should run smack dab into The Thumb. As the last official stop on the scenic loop, take your time enjoying this unique formation. As one of the only rounded formations in the park, this is where The Thumb takes its name from!

Booking Guided Tours in Monument Valley

There is so much to see and do – it can be somewhat overwhelming in reality? The sky is bigger than anything you’ve ever seen and if you’re from the East Coast or anywhere in the mountains, it’s an odd feeling being so out in the open.

If you’re not sure about driving through the park yourself – we highly recommend taking a guided tour of the park.

Guided tours of the park can be purchased through the Get Your Guide links below to support Navajo Nation! These tours are only available with Navajo Guides. (These tours are also great if you’re short on time and you want to see the best of Monument Valley in a few hours!!)

• Stargazing Tours – With nothing around Monument Valley for miles – stargazing here is one of the last places on Earth you can really go with no light pollution ! See the Milky Way for miles above the purple and red hues of the valley below!
• Scenic Loop Tour (Stopping at John Ford’s Point) – 2.5 Hour Tour – Explore backcountry with a Navajo guide and see landmarks that you can only access with a guided tour.
• Extended Monument Valley Tour & Backcountry Access – 3.5 Hour Tour – Explore deeping into the wilderness of Monument Valley with your Navajo tour guide!! Perfect for photographers – you’ll be allowed extra time at each stop.

All guided tours with Navajo guides will be in open-top guide trucks. 5-6 people can sit comfortably per tour!

Hiking Trails in Monument Valley

Because Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park isn’t a National Park – what you can see is extremely limited. To really get the most of your Monument Valley excursions, most people want to hike and get up close to the monuments. There is only one trail to be able to do that without a Navajo Guide: Wildcat Trail.

• Wildcat Trail – This 3.2 mile loop will take you around Mitten Buttes and Merrick Butte. This trail is moeratly difficult and will take you 2-3 hours to complete. (You’ll proabably stop for pictures alot!)

A LITTLE GEOLOGY LESSON! One of the best parts about visiting Monument Valley is the deep red clay and sands that swirl through the desert. Whether you’re hiking or driving – do yourself a favor and really pay attention to the desert around you. What Are The Rocks Made Of? The rocks are an interesting mix of red, purple, and blue hues throughout the day! These colors are made possible by deposits of different minerals throughout the soil. Iron oxides give off red hues and magnesium oxide gives off purple and blue hues!! FLORA & FAUNA: Vegetation of Monument Valley: Juniper trees, yucca, Russian thistle AKA tumbleweeds, and Navajo Tea. Flowers of the region: Purple Smallflower Fishhook Cactus, Yellow Hairspine Pricklypear Cactus, and Desert Tobacco (White Flowers) Animals in Monument Valley: Sparrows, Lizards, Rattlesnakes, Desert Cottontail Bunnies, Antelope Squirrel, and Coyote

Other Places To See Around Monument Valley

If you have time to spare, there are other tours around Monument Valley not specifically on the 17-mile scenic loop. For more hiking adventures – you’ll want to book one of the tours below to gain access to off-road hiking adventures.

The 17-mile scenic loop is the most epic part of the area though so if you have to choose between doing the main loop and other tours – you won’t regret doing the main loop!!

• Mystery Valley – Where you can see the petroglyphs from the anceint Anasazi settlements throusands of years ago!
• Teardrop Arch – This tour will be a 2 hour adventure through Horse Shoe Canyon to see Pearl Drop Ruins along with Teardrop Arch. One of the most highly reccomended tours after the Scenic Drive on Trip Advisor!
• Lower Monument Valley – Typically included with ‘backcountry’ tours and extended tours of Monument Valley that we’ve listed below. You’ll get to be up close with Totem Pole and other scenic spots that you can’t do while on the Scenic Loop.
• Hunts Mesa – The best overnight tour!! Camp out, grill steaks and enjoy the views from this 1200 foot tall mesa in Monument Valley!

Leave a comment below if you’ve done any other tours we should include in this first-timer’s guide to Monument Valley!

What To Pack For Monument Valley

Because Monument Valley is around very few other destinations – you’ll most likely be staying overnight. Beyond your normal toiletries, there are a few factors to consider.

• Are You Hiking or Driving The Park? Depending on how you plan on getting around the park, you’ll have different needs. If you’re driving the park, make sure you pack comfortable clothing to be in the car and your normal travel shoes. If you’re hiking the park, make sure to pack hiking boots.
• A Note For Hikers – If you’ve never been to the American Southwest, keep in mind that it’s an incredibly dry climate. Day 2 our lips were peeling because we’ve never been so dehydrated!!! Pack a reuseable water bottle/hydration bladder for hiking.

Regardless of whether you hike or drive the park – make sure you plan to put extra water in the car. We had reusable water bottles that we constantly filled with gallon jugs we kept in the trunk.

• Food: There is not much around the area for miles. We highly reccomend poacking all sorts of road trip snacks to get your through the day!! Get our guide here for the best healthy road trip snacks!!

Another thing to remember – Monument Valley lays in the Utah Desert. The temperature swings in large ranges between when the sun is highest at midday – and when the sun sets. Between these two extremes – you can go from hot to cold pretty quickly! Other items to include while packing for Monument Valley:

• Layers – Plan on at least bringing sweatshirts even in the dead of summer for the evenings!
• Camera or a Go Pro ( We took our Go Pro and it was a great choice!!! The air is so clear you’ll get some really stunning shots!)
• Reuseable Water Bottle

Restaurants Near Monument valley

As we mentioned before – there really isn’t much around Monument Valley. Finding restaurants can be somewhat difficult in the more popular months. HENCE the reason we highly recommend packing snacks!! That way you’ll at least be able to tide yourself over until you can grab a meal.

TRADITIONAL NAVAJO FOODS When you’re in the area, you’ll have the opportunity to try some traditional Navajo foods. Typically corn, beans, and grains are the main staples in Navajo dishes, with a familiar Mexican-style spice profile. What you may not have had before is frybread! Frybread is a slightly sweet cake, similar in texture to a funnel cake without sugar. Use it to sop up all the last bits of deliciousness!

The best places to eat around Monument Valley from closest to farthest are:

• Haskenneini Restaurant (0 miles): Only open during the summer months, this restaurant is inside the Monument Valley Visitor’s Center. They specialize in Navajo and American cuisines.
• The View Restaurant (1 mile) : Navajo tacos and plenty of veggies. This spot isn’t necessarily amazing food but it’s close and convenient when there isn’t much else around. (In The View hotel)
• Amigo Cafe (29.3 Miles/39 minutes): We hghly reccomend this spot in Kayenta for breakfast burritos! Expect Native American/Mexican cuisine with no fuss.
• Blue Coffee Pot Restaurant (29.5 miles/40 minutes) : A good little crossover between Native American cuisine and American food. Think burgers and breakfast sandwiches on frybread!

How To Get To Monument Valley

Plan to drive into Monument Valley mid to late afternoon from your previous destination. The closest airport is Page or Flagstaff (depending on how many layovers you have – one may be faster than the other.)

• Most people fly into Las Vegas to do a American Southwest Roadtrip. That’s what we did and what we would recommend as far as traveling if you’re not from the region.

If you’re from anywhere close to Monument Valley, flying isn’t worth your time. It’s literally not close to anything. (That doesn’t mean it isn’t worth your time! It’s absolutely worth the 3-4 hour drive out of your way!)

DIRECTIONS TO MONUMENT VALLEY:

• From Las Vegas, Through Zion National Park, to Monument Valley: Starting in Las Vegas means you’ll take Interstate-15 from Las Vegas all the way to Zion National Park for about2 hours. You can either stop here in Zion National Park in Utah, (which we highly reccomend!) or continue on to Monument Valley for another 4.5 hours.
• Directions From The Grand Canyon in Arizona to Monument Valley (3.5 hours): AZ-64E for 1 hour to US-160 E towards Monument Valley. You’ll be on this highway for almost two hours! Then get off onto Main Monument Valley Road for the last 16 minutes of your journey.

You’ll be driving from your previous destination either from Utah or Arizona and all of a sudden giant rocks rise up in the distance. Signs will start pointing you towards Monument Valley and since there’s nothing else around – it’s hard to miss!

We also recommend booking your rental car in advance. With rental car shortages all across the country – booking a rental car at the airport last minute may be difficult! We booked a jeep months in advance because we knew that it would be difficult to get one so close to our trip.

Nearby Attractions

Since you only need one day in Monument Valley to really experience everything it has to offer – make sure to include these nearby attractions on your itinerary! (Most of these are within 6 hours from Monument Valley so it’s easy to add to your American Southwest road trip!)

• Forrest Gump Point: to get those spectacular shots, drive North of the Utah side of Monument Valley to US-163 Scenic, Mexican Hat, UT 84531. (Click the link for Google Maps directions!)

Monument Valley is also one of our favorite destinations for getting out where there are very few people. There are a few destinations left in the United States that lack the massive crowds that frequent many more popular destinations. If you’re looking for a more private hiking experience – read our guide to the most underrated hiking destinations throughout the United States!

If we were planning two separate trips – we would suggest starting in either Las Vegas or Sedona.

Trip Itinerary Starting in Las Vegas:

• Las Vegas – Get our full 24-Hour Las Vegas Guide here .
• Don’t forget to stop at the Neon Musem in Las Vegas – it was the best part of our trip there!
• Valley of Fire (Off I-15 on your way to Zion)
• Zion National Park

Trip Itinerary Starting in Sedona:

• Sedona – Hike to the Hidden Soldiers Pass Cave!
• Grand Canyon
• Antelope Canyon

After you’ve seen Monument Valley from either direction add these stops to extend your trip!

• Mexican Hat & Goosenecks State Park
• Valley of The Gods – Very similar to Monument Valley but much less touristy. You’ll see the Mexican Hat formation on the way
• Bryce Canyon National Park

The Best Time To Go to Monument Valley

The American Southwest is special in that it’s truly beautiful all throughout the year. The red clay and desert-like landscape mean that no matter when you go – you’ll take stunning photos and have epic sunsets.

For the most comfortable temperatures, we recommend going spring and fall. Temperatures in the winter stay in the 40s and 50s, and temperatures in the summer are usually above 90 most days. Since this is also the most touristy time to visit (school is out), the fall and spring tend to be less crowded.

When we visited in November – the weather was epically beautiful. We are hoping to visit again someday soon in the spring to see all of the desert wildflowers and cactus bloom!

• No matter when you visit Monument Valley – you’ll be sure to have one of the most stunning sunsets you’ve ever seen in your life! Get our guide here for the Prettiest Sunsets Across The USA .

HOW LONG DO YOU NEED IN MONUMENT VALLEY? Most people only need about a day and a half – so it can be part of a much longer American Southwest Tour.

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Until next time friends,

Thanks for sharing!

Evan and Shelby

Sharing beautiful places, sustainable & slow living tips, + good food from across the globe. You can probably find Shelbs creating a new playlist or editing photos, and Ev researching the latest and greatest in all manner of travel gear and tech. We're so happy you're here taking a moment to read and slow down a little.

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Sarah Wilson

This is one of the best detailed posts I’ve discovered about Monument Valley. I’m planning a road trip to the States, although being European I have to wait a bit so this is probably a 2023 trip now, I hadn’t realised that the tours on offer were run by Navajo guides, that makes me even more keen to book. I’m planning to do the full scenic route, some hiking and I’d love to do some star gazing.

I’ve been wanting to visit MV and remember seeing it on Forest Gump! I had plans to go last year and even booked a room, but the pandemic shut down the area so I had to cancel my plans. Looks like some areas are limited for safety, but glad to hear it’s back open to visitors. Loved the brief history and I can’t wait to visit soon.

Too bad we had to skip this on our visit to the Southwest, but we plan to make a stop in the future. Not just from Forrest Gump, but I also recognized Monument Valley from the old western movies. I think I will wait until everything is back to normal so we can do our self-guided tour when visiting.

Amazing itinerary made, very helpful. A long way away from me, like a distant dream, but reading this gave a good picture of the place and how the places can be visited.

I also visited the American Southwest for the first time this year. Isn’t it incredible?? I can’t wait to go back, and Monument Valley looks like the perfect next destination. It’s crazy how relatively close it is to the Grand Canyon despite having such a different vibe to it. I also love to hear that it’s not overly commercial. Trying the local food would definitely be a highlight for me, especially the frybread. It sounds delicious!

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Earth Day is observed worldwide to raise environmental awareness and involve citizens and communities in creating a cleaner, healthier world. At the Bureau of Land Management, our goal is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations, and you can help us achieve this. Find out how you can get involved in this year's Earth Day events on public lands below!

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Join us for an Earth Day event Saturday April 20 at the Discovery Hill Trail system with the Salmon International Mountain Bike Association (SIMBA).

The Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse Outstanding Natural Area plans to hold a volunteer planting event Monday April 22 from 9 a.m.-noon.

Join BLM Canyons of the Ancients National Monument staff and the Southwest Colorado Canyons Alliance this Earth Day to help clean up one of the places we love!

The BLM's Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse ONA, in partnership with Keep Palm Beach County Beautiful, plans to hold an Earth Week be

The BLM's Meadowood Special Recreation Management Area in Lorton, Va., plans to hold several Earth Day activities from 10 a.m.-1 p.m., Monday April 22, 2024.

The Bureau of Land Management Northeastern States District Office invites you to join the Garlic Mustard Pull-A-Thon to be held from noon-3 p.m., Monday, April 22 at the Granville Dog Exercise Area

The Bureau of Land Management will be participating in the Point Arena annual Almost Fringe Festival on April 20, 2024, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. to celebrate Earth Day!

The Redding Field Office will be participating in an event put on by nonprofit partners, Shasta Environmental Alliance at Ca

The BLM and the El Dorado Chapter of the California Native Plant Society are observing Earth Day by offering free guided, public Kanaka Valley birds and plants tours at the Pine Hill Preserve.&nbsp

The Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains National Monument will celebrate Earth Day at their visitor center by hosting volun

Join the San Juan Islands National Monument & our many community partners for the annual Great Islands Clean Up! Bring your family and friends to help clean our local beaches and roadways.