The Ultimate Monument Valley Travel Guide for 2025

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Monument Valley is one of the most iconic spots in the USA, known for its unique rock formations and vast desert landscapes.

It shows up all the time in movies and photos, but there’s so much more to it—especially when it comes to its cultural and historical significance.

In this travel guide, you’ll find the top things to check out in Monument Valley, along with some handy tips to help you make the most of your visit.

We’ll also dive into the region’s history and explore why Monument Valley is so important to the Navajo Nation. Ready to explore? Let’s go!

Where is Monument Valley Located?

Monument Valley is an amazing spot on the Colorado Plateau, famous for its giant rock formations that tower up to 985 feet above the valley floor.

It’s located right on the border of Arizona and Utah, within the Navajo Nation Reservation.

The incredible landscape here has made it a popular backdrop for western movies and a must-see stop for anyone touring the American Southwest.

Why Monument Valley is More Than Just a View

Monument Valley isn’t just an amazing landscape – it’s also part of the Navajo Nation, which has a unique “dependent nation” status, giving it more independence than other areas in the U.S.

The Navajo Nation has its own government, with a president, tribal council, and a legal system that mixes modern law with traditional practices.

Their legal system is all about “hozho,” or balance and harmony, and they focus on resolving conflicts through talks and understanding different points of view.

They also have their own education system, where standard subjects are taught alongside Navajo language and traditions.

The Cultural Heart of Monument Valley

Monument Valley is a sacred place for the Navajo Nation, with rock formations that are deeply tied to their mythology.

For example, The Mittens are said to be the hands of the First People that grew from the earth.

The valley is thought to have a positive energy that promotes spiritual renewal. It’s also a key historical spot, connected to the Long Walk of the 1860s.

Even though it’s a huge inspiration for artists, Monument Valley is still home to many Navajo families who continue to live by their traditions.

Best Things to Do in Monument Valley

Scenic Drive

The 17-mile Scenic Drive is the main thing to do in Monument Valley. It’s a loop that takes you past some of the valley’s most famous rock formations, like:

• North Window: A natural “window” between the rocks with a stunning view of the valley.
• The Mittens i Merrick Butte: These iconic formations are often the first things you’ll see. The “Mittens” look like giant gloves sticking out of the earth.
• John Ford’s Point: Named after the director who made Monument Valley famous in his western movies. This spot gives you a panoramic view of the valley.
• Three Sisters: A group of three slim rock formations that look like nuns.
• Totem Pole: A tall, skinny rock formation that looks like an ancient totem.
• Artist’s Point: One of the best spots to catch the panoramic view of the valley, especially at sunset.

What You Need to Know:

• The road’s unpaved and can be a bit bumpy in places, but most regular cars should be fine. You don’t need a 4×4.
• Only standard cars are allowed – no big SUVs, campers, or motorcycles.
• Drive slow and take in the views. Make sure to stop only in the designated areas to protect the desert ecosystem.
• You can drive yourself or go on a guided tour.
• Plan for 2-4 hours to drive the route, depending on how often you stop.
• The road’s open only during park hours, so plan ahead. The last entry is about 2.5 hours before the park closes.

Forrest Gump Point

This iconic spot, where Forrest Gump wrapped up his run in the movie, gives you a great panoramic view of Monument Valley.

It’s located on US-163, heading northeast from the Arizona–Utah border, and you don’t need to pay any park entrance fee to visit.

The best time to catch the view is in the morning, when the rising sun lights up the entire valley.

Hiking in Monument Valley

If you want to get up close to Monument Valley, the Wildcat Trail is a must. It’s a 3.2-mile trail and the only one you can do without a guide.

Here’s the scoop:

• Difficulty: Moderate. The trail is pretty flat, but the sandy ground can make it a bit tricky. There’s some elevation change at the start (going downhill into the valley) and at the end (heading back up).
• Time: Most people take about 2-3 hours to finish it.
• Views: The trail loops around West Mitten Butte, giving you awesome views. You’ll be right in between the monuments at some points.
• Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon when it’s cooler, and the light is perfect for photos. Avoid midday hikes in summer—it can get way hotter on the trail than up top, which can lead to dehydration.
• What to Bring: Plenty of water, snacks, sunscreen, and comfy shoes.

Watching the Sunrise and Sunset

Watching the sunrise or sunset over Monument Valley is something you won’t forget.

The best spots for sunrise and sunset are The View Hotel’s terrace, Artist’s Point, and Forrest Gump Point.

A few tips for photos:

• The best light is right after sunrise and before sunset. The colors pop, and the shadows make the landscape look even cooler.
• Use the natural lines and shapes of the rock formations to frame your shots. Desert plants can make a great foreground.
• Monument Valley is perfect for panoramic shots. Take a series of pics and stitch them together later, or use your phone’s panorama mode.
• If you’re staying overnight, try capturing the starry sky. Monument Valley has some seriously dark skies—great for stargazing.
• Besides wide shots, don’t forget about the details—the textures of the rocks, desert plants, and sand patterns.

Guided Tours

If you want to dive deeper into the region, a guided tour is a great option.

Lots of tours are led by Navajo guides who share cool insights about the culture, history, and geology of Monument Valley. Here are some choices:

• Jeep rides: Great for getting to the more remote spots, like Mystery Valley or Teardrop Arch.
• Horseback rides: A traditional way to explore, often with stories about Navajo history and culture.
• Photo tours: Perfect for anyone into photography, these take you to the best spots at the best times.
• Cultural tours: Focus on the history and traditions of the Navajo, with visits to traditional hogan homes and craft demos.
• Airplane tours: Get unforgettable aerial views of Monument Valley.

Helpful Tips

Best Time to Visit Monument Valley

Monument Valley is open all year, but the best time depends on what you prefer:

• Spring (March-May) and Fall (September-November): Mild temps make these perfect for hiking and outdoor activities.
• Summer (June-August): It can get super hot, often over 100°F, and it’s peak tourist season.
• Winter (December-February): It’s cold, and sometimes snowy, but the winter views are pretty unique.

Personally, I’d say spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) are the best times to go!

How to Get to Monument Valley

Monument Valley is a remote spot on the Arizona-Utah border, and the best way to explore it is by car. A large sedan or midsize SUV works great for the area.

It’s easy to add Monument Valley to a road trip with other popular destinations like the Grand Canyon, Antelope Canyon, or Arches National Park.

Here’s how far it is from nearby places:

• Page, Arizona: ~125 miles (2 hours)
• Flagstaff, Arizona: ~186 miles (3 hours)
• Grand Canyon: ~186 miles (3 hours)
• Phoenix, Arizona: ~311 miles (5 hours)
• Salt Lake City, Utah: ~373 miles (6 hours)
• Las Vegas, Nevada: ~404 miles (6+ hours)

Most people drive in from Page via US-98 E to US-163 N. The views on this route are stunning.

Fuel Up: Gas stations are few and far between, so top off your tank whenever you can!

Where to Stay in Monument Valley

If you’re planning to stay near Monument Valley, here are some great options:

• The View Hotel: Right in Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park, with rooms that give you unbeatable views of the valley.
• Goulding’s Lodge: A historic spot just outside the park with a variety of places to stay.
• Camping: The campground at Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park keeps it simple but delivers stunning views.
• Private Campgrounds: Check out Arrowhead Campground for gorgeous views and a convenient location near the scenic drive entrance.

If you’re looking for more options, check out hotels in nearby towns:

• Kayenta, Arizona (24 miles south of Monument Valley):
  • Hampton Inn Kayenta Monument Valley: Comfortable hotel with a pool and free breakfast. Rates start around $180 per night.
  • Wetherill Inn: Simple and affordable, offering cozy accommodations. Rates start around $120 per night.
• Bluff, Utah (50 miles north of Monument Valley):
  • Willow Street Cottages: Charming, fully-equipped cottages offering privacy. Rates start around $150 per night.
  • Bluff Gardens: Relaxing property with a beautiful garden setting. Rates start around $140 per night.
• Monticello, Utah (93 miles north of Monument Valley):
  • The Atomic Blue Motor-Inn: Stylish motel with comfortable rooms and convenient access to attractions. Rates start around $110 per night.
  • Inn at the Canyons: Cozy hotel offering comfortable rooms and breakfast included. Rates start around $130 per night.

Entrance Fees and Hours

The entrance fee to Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park is $8 per person (not per vehicle), unlike national parks where the fee is typically per vehicle.

Opening Hours:

• Summer (May 1 – September 30): 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM, daily
• Off-season (October 1 – April 30): 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM, daily

Scenic Drive Hours:

• Winter: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM, daily. Last entry at 2:30 PM.
• Summer: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM, daily. Last entry at 4:30 PM.

Monument Valley is closed on the following holidays: Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day.

What to Pack for Monument Valley?

• Clothing: Layers are key! Days can be hot, and nights chilly. Pack:
  • Lightweight, breathable clothes for the day
  • A warm jacket or fleece for the evening
  • Comfortable hiking shoes
  • Wide–brimmed hat
  • Sunglasses
• Gear:
  • Camera or smartphone with a good camera
  • Tripod for nighttime photography
  • Power bank (there’s no electricity at the campsites)
  • Binoculars for observing distant rock formations
• Food and Water:
  • Water bottle
  • High–energy snacks
  • Thermos for hot drinks, especially if you’re planning to watch the sunrise
  • Own food if staying overnight
• Other Essentials:
  • Sunscreen with high SPF
  • Lip balm
  • Basic first aid kit

Other Tips

• Respect the land and culture: Stick to the trails, respect Navajo traditions, and ask before taking photos.
• Stay overnight if you can: Catch both the sunset and sunrise, and enjoy the night sky.
• Check road conditions: Make sure the roads are clear, especially after rain or snow.
• Bring cash: Some vendors might not take cards.
• Respect sacred sites: Don’t enter areas marked as closed.
• Follow “Leave No Trace”: Don’t leave trash or take souvenirs.
• Watch for wildlife: Be cautious of snakes and other animals on the trails.

Monument Valley: Fun Facts

• The iconic sandstone formations in Monument Valley were shaped by millions of years of erosion.
• Wind and rain sculpted the rocks into their stunning shapes over time.
• These formations are around 160 to 250 million years old, dating back to the Triassic and Permian periods.
• Monument Valley has been featured in tons of movies and shows, like Easy Rider, Back to the Future III, and Westworld.
• In Navajo, it’s called Tsé Biiʼ Ndzisgaii, which means “valley of rocks.”
• The valley is known for its super dark skies, making it perfect for stargazing.

The Ultimate Monument Valley Travel Guide: Conclusions

Monument Valley isn’t just a stunning view – it’s rich in Navajo Nation history and culture.

As you explore, you’ll get a deeper connection to the land, learning about the traditions and stories of the Navajo people while soaking in the breathtaking scenery.

It’s a must-see stop on any Western US road trip. If you enjoyed this Monument Valley travel guide, feel free to share it with your friends!

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