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Monument Valley , also known as Monument Valley , is a spectacular landscape located in the Navajo Nation in southern Utah and within the state of Arizona.

A unique place that we made sure to visit on our 21-day road trip along the West Coast of the United States in our RV, after checking off all the requirements and preparing our route. After Route 66 in our RV and visiting the best viewpoints of the Grand Canyon , it was time to venture into the more mythical Far West of Monument Valley , and now we're going to tell you about our experience and everything we learned.

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Where it is and how to get to the Monument Valley: our tremendous arrival

Monument Valley is located in the Navajo Nation region , between the states of Arizona and Utah in the United States.

Accessing this magical place is exciting, especially if you are a road trip enthusiast.

From various nearby points, such as Phoenix or Las Vegas, you can reach it by road enjoying the impressive views of the American southwest.

The most common thing for a traveler traveling the West Coast of the United States is to arrive at Monument Valley from their previous visit to the Grand Canyon of the Colorado or from Page having visited Antylope Canyon in the latter.

Our arrival and heart-stopping journey to Monument Valley

In our case, we accessed it from the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, a 3-hour drive from there, and on this route, everything happened to us!

When I say everything, it really is everything, I laugh writing this, but there were quite hard and tense moments on this journey towards Monument Valley.

First a storm with good lightning , then a tornado in the distance visible on the road that crossed our path, then a very serious accident, 3 cars ahead of us, in which we were stopped for 3 hours and finally we arrived with a sandstorm that apart from not seeing anything we got our rental van stuck in the sand on the road to the entrance of the campsite where we would spend that night in Monument Valley.

Come on, we won't forget the access to Monument Valley hehehe.

Luckily, as you must have guessed, it all ended up being just an anecdote , and finally the next day the visit to the Valley of the Monuments was wonderful, but the arrival was absolutely spectacular!

The Navajo Nation of the United States

The Navajo Nation is a recognized Native American community in the United States , with a significant presence in the Southwest, primarily in the states of Arizona, New Mexico, and Utah . They also have populations in Colorado and northern Mexico. They are the largest Native American group recognized by the United States government.

Navajo history and culture

The Navajo people have a rich history and culture that stretches back many centuries. Their language and culture are central to their identity, and the Navajo language is spoken by a significant number of community members.

The Navajo Nation has its own governmental structure, with a tribal government consisting of a president and a council , responsible for making decisions and managing the nation's internal affairs.

Territory and economy

The territory of the Navajo Nation encompasses a wide variety of landscapes, including plateaus, canyons, deserts, and mountains.

The Navajo community's economy has historically been based on agriculture, livestock farming, and crafts , with the production of textiles, jewelry, and pottery traditionally being important for their livelihood.

Resilience and Historical Challenges

The history of the Navajo people includes significant challenges, such as the Long March , a tragic episode in which they were forcibly removed from their lands in 1864 by U.S. authorities and forced to march to a place of internment. However, over time, they were able to return to much of their ancestral lands and have sought to preserve their culture, language, and traditions for generations.

What time is it in Monument Valley?

Monument Valley has its own natural clock, with changing light and shadow transforming the landscape throughout the day. If you're looking for the most breathtaking experience, knowing the time in Monument Valley is essential to making the most of your visit. Both sunrise and sunset offer magical moments that you won't want to miss.

So keep in mind that in the Navajo Nation, the time is Utah time, not Arizona time where you are. So if you're coming from Las Vegas, Los Angeles, the Grand Canyon, or Page, add one hour to your watch.

Admission price to visit Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park

You should know that to enter the main visitor area of ​​Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park and explore the Navajo reservation in Monument Valley, it is necessary to pay an entrance fee to the Navajo Indians.

Here I provide you with information about where and how much you pay to access the park:

Pay point

The entrance fee to Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park is paid at the ticket booths upon entering the Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park Visitor Center by road , which is the common starting point for most visitors wishing to explore the park. They are similar to toll booths.

Entrance fee to Monument Valley Tribal Park

The park entrance fee is $8 per person arriving by vehicle. There's no separate price for children and adults. However, children under 7 get in free, so be sure to ask them not to charge you.

For payment, you can pay however you like, in cash or by card , and the ticket is only valid for one day.

Before you go, check the park's official updated information in case anything has changed.

Remember that these rates contribute to the conservation and preservation of this important and beautiful natural and cultural site. By paying the entrance fee, you are helping to ensure that Monument Valley remains available and well maintained for future generations.

What to see in the Monument Valley

Exploring Monument Valley is like entering a movie set.

Wonders of stone and sand in the Valley: Unmissable places and views to see

When you think of Monument Valley , the first image that comes to mind is the iconic rock formations that seem to reach for the sky. These majestic red sandstone structures are the true stars of the show and will leave you speechless. Here are some of the highlights you shouldn't miss during your visit.

The "Mitten Formations"

The Mitten Formations are probably the most recognizable symbol of Monument Valley . These immense rock formations, so named for their resemblance to giant mittens, stand out imposingly on the horizon. There are two of them: Mitten Butte and Merrick Butte.

Observing them at dawn or dusk , when the light plays with their contours, is a unique experience.

John Ford's Point

This spot is named after the famous film director John Ford, who shot many of his western films in this area.

From here, you'll have a spectacular panoramic view of the valley and its iconic rock formations.

It is an ideal place to capture stunning photographs and appreciate the grandeur of nature.

Elephant Butte

Elephant Butte is another fascinating rock formation in the valley.

Its name comes from its resemblance to a reclining elephant , with its trunk and ears clearly defined. It's amazing how nature can create such striking likenesses through erosion and time.

The Artist's Point

If you are a photography lover , Artist's Point will be your paradise.

From this point, you will have a perfect view of the rock formations and the possibility of capturing incredible photos that look like something straight out of a magazine.

The light of the sunset illuminates the landscape, giving you unparalleled opportunities for photographic creativity.

The Totem Pole

The Totem Pole is another peculiar rock formation that you can't help but admire.

It is a tall, slender structure that rises from the ground, with a relatively small base compared to its height. It is a fascinating visual challenge and a testament to the majesty of nature.

These are just some of the places that will leave you in awe in Monument Valley.

See the sunrise and sunset in Monument Valley: a must, but at what time?

Sunrise and sunset in Monument Valley are unique moments.

The sunlight playing on the reddish rocks creates stunning views and changing shadows that paint the valley in vibrant colors.

Discover the best times to watch the sunrise and sunset in Monument Valley and don't miss this unforgettable experience with this chart:

Here you have the table with the approximate times of sunrise and sunset in Monument Valley for each month of the year.

This table shows the approximate sunrise and sunset times in Monument Valley for each month of the year so you can see the sunrise and sunset times in Monument Valley.

Month	Sunrise time	sunset time
January	07: 30 AM	05: 30 PM
February	07: 00 AM	06: 00 PM
March	06: 30 AM	06: 30 PM
April	06: 00 AM	07: 00 PM
May	05: 45 AM	07: 30 PM
June	05: 30 AM	08: 00 PM
July	05: 45 AM	08: 00 PM
August	06: 00 AM	07: 45 PM
September	06: 15 AM	07: 15 PM
October	06: 30 AM	06: 45 PM
November	07: 00 AM	05: 30 PM
December	07: 15 AM	05: 15 PM

How to visit the Monument Valley: On foot, vehicle or tour on horseback or 4×4

Visiting Monument Valley is an adventure that will leave you breathless.

You can explore it on foot, on an organized horseback or 4x4 tour, or with your own vehicle . Each option has its own charm and offers a unique perspective of this incredible place.

Let's look at each option below.

Walking: Wildcat Trail in Monument Valley

Exploring the Wildcat Trail on foot provides a unique experience for nature lovers and those who want to connect with the natural and cultural beauty of Monument Valley. It is the only walking trail that can be done well marked and laid out.

For us it was one of the best ways to enter the valley, see reptiles and animals in the area and touch the fine sand.

The Wildcat Trail:

1. Length and difficulty:
   • The Wildcat Trail is approximately 4 miles (6,4 km) in total (round trip) and is considered moderate difficulty.
   • La greater difficulty is that it does not have not a shadow and that is why in the middle of summer it is not recommended and they even close the trail during the hottest hours.
2. Trailhead:
   • The trail begins to the left of the Monument Valley Visitor Center, off the scenic highway.
   • Before leaving you have to register at the visitor center or on the same sheet of the trail entrance post before the walk. It is important for two things: to obtain updated information about the conditions of the trail and receive safety recommendations and 2 to control that everyone returns later, since you have to indicate at the exit that you have left as well.
   • The path is marked with indicator posts that facilitate navigation. Besides, there are brochures available at the visitor center for a self-guided experience, providing information on points of interest along the way.
3. Travel:
   • The path is marked with indicator posts that facilitate navigation. Besides, there are brochures available at the visitor center for a self-guided experience, providing information on points of interest along the way.
   • The Wildcat Trail takes you to heart of the valley, allowing you to walk among the iconic monumental rock formations of Monument Valley. You will experience the best views of the known mittens, tables, natural arches and other impressive geological features.

Things to know before taking the road: tips

3. During the walk, it is possible to meet Navajo guides offering additional guided tours to learn more about Navajo culture, history and legends associated with Monument Valley.
4. El terrain varies, including rocky areas, sand and uneven surfaces.
5. It is recommended to use suitable closed footwear for walks and carry enough water, sunscreen, a good hat and other essential supplies. On our walk we saw a snake, so we insisted on wearing closed-toed shoes.

Remember: respect for the environment

It is important to respect and follow the environmental preservation and conservation guidelines . Avoid littering and respect the rules of conduct to ensure that this unique natural place remains in good condition for future generations.

4×4 tours through the Monument Valley: An unforgettable and comfortable experience

4x4 tours of Monument Valley are a popular way to explore this iconic natural landscape, due to their comfort and the explanations about Navajo culture that the guides provide during the visit.

See here the ideal tour with minibus and guided walking tour , the perfect combination that, due to its price and what it offers, is what we recommend after seeing all the options.

Experience and routes in 4×4

The 4x4 tours are led by local Navajo guides who have in-depth knowledge of the region.

Tours vary in route and length but are typically group tours for groups of about 10 people, and typically take visitors through the dirt roads of Monument Valley, showcasing the most iconic rock formations, natural arches, scenic viewpoints and sites of cultural interest.

Some tours even offer customization options , allowing visitors to choose specific destinations or additional activities so that they are individual and not in a group like normal tours.

 In addition, you can find special sunrise or sunset tours to enjoy the unique light that the valley offers at these times of the day.

During the tour, visitors have the opportunity to enjoy breathtaking panoramic views , while learning about the history, legends, and Navajo culture that have shaped Monument Valley.

And the cool thing about these visits is that the guides share meaningful stories and offer detailed information about the rock formations and their cultural importance.

Duration and price of 4×4 routes

The duration of the 4x4 tour can vary, generally ranging from 2 to 4 hours , depending on the provider and the type of tour chosen.

As for the price, it can also vary, but you can expect a price range of approximately $50 to $100 USD per person for a basic tour.

Practical advice:

If you're going during peak season (June to September), it's worth booking well in advance, as they sell out quickly.

But if you go in the off-season, you might be able to wait until you get there, and in front of the visitor center you can go and see them and haggle a bit to get a better price; sometimes it works.

Monument Valley Scenic Highway in your vehicle at your leisure

Exploring this area in your own car gives you the freedom to travel at your own pace and stop at the points of interest that most appeal to you. However, you should be aware that this road is not paved but a 21 km long, one-way, potholed dirt forest track in poor condition . Therefore, it is only recommended for 4x4 vehicles or SUVs with high ground clearance to avoid scraping the undercarriage on the potholes.

Start of the road

The scenic route generally begins at the Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park Visitor Center , which is right next door on the left. At the Information Center, you can get up-to-date information on road conditions, points of interest, and any other needs you may have.

Points of Interest that you can see

During your tour, you'll be treated to stunning views of iconic rock formations such as the Mittens, Totem Pole, Elephant Butte, and other otherworldly landscapes straight out of a Western movie.

Schedule, kilometers and duration of the Monument Valley scenic route:

The schedule for this route is flexible and can be adapted to your preferences within the road's opening hours, which are from 6 a.m. to 20 p.m. when it closes.

The duration of the tour may vary depending on the number of stops you decide to make, but on average, you can plan for at least 2-3 hours to fully enjoy the scenery.

In total the route, which is circular and one-way, is 13 miles, 21 kilometers.

Horseback riding route through Monument Valley

Exploring Monument Valley on horseback is a unique experience that allows you to immerse yourself in the nature and culture of this iconic region of the southwestern United States in an authentic, Far West-style way.

Horseback riding tours in Monument Valley are typically led by local Navajo cowboys who have in-depth knowledge of the region and its rich history. These guides offer a unique perspective, sharing stories and insights into Navajo culture and the rock formations.

Beginning of horseback riding routes

Horseback riding tours generally begin from the Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park Visitor Center , where participants meet and prepare for the excursion.

Route and duration

Horseback riding tours vary in length and difficulty, catering to different riding experience levels. These tours can last from one hour to several hours , allowing you to explore a significant portion of Monument Valley's landscape. Please note that they are only available for riders 8 years and older , and the price per person is around $100.

During the horseback ride, you'll be able to enjoy stunning views of the rock formations, canyons, and valleys of Monument Valley. Guides often take participants to notable points of interest, including the famous mittens, natural arches, and other landmarks away from cars.

reservations and recommendations

It is advisable to book your horseback riding experience in advance to guarantee availability, especially in high seasons. It is also essential to follow the safety instructions provided by the guides and use the appropriate riding equipment.

You can see the tour operators that offer horseback riding tours here.

Where to sleep in Monument Valley

Sleeping in Monument Valley is quite an experience. From cozy campsites to good hotels, there are options for all tastes.

The View Hotel in Monument Valley

The View Hotel in Monument Valley is the most exclusive option for those seeking accommodation right next to the Visitor Center and with the best views of Monument Valley. With panoramic views of the most iconic rock formations, this hotel is the only one located within the National Park, along with its campground with RV sites and bungalows.

The bad thing is its high price and that you must reserve well in advance. It fills up quickly and if this is your option you have to book as soon as possible.

Goulding's Lodge

The most exclusive option with a view that won't break the bank is Goulding's Lodge . It's not nearly as expensive as The View hotel, which isn't quite as luxurious either, but it has equally good views.

In this hotel there are just as beautiful views and at a better price. Without a doubt the one we would recommend.

Campsites and RV Parks

For nature lovers and outdoor adventurers, camping in Monument Valley is one of the most exciting options, with diverse choices and one of the cheapest.

Not only is there the Hotel The View campground, which is the one with the most emblematic views and the only one within the National Park next to the Visitor Center, but also the most expensive, almost $120 per night.

If you leave the Visitor Center and the park entrance ticket booths, you'll find other campsites for less than half the price and with equally good views.

We camped with our rental camper in a private Navajo Indian campground outside the Park and the views were also great and the place was beautiful and for less than half the price, it was undoubtedly a success.

Monument Valley APK, play before you come

Prepare your visit: Immerse yourself in Monument Valley with this app.

Are you excited about your visit to Monument Valley ? You can prepare for the adventure by downloading the Monument Valley APK , an application that allows you to virtually explore this amazing place before your trip.

With all this I hope, you now have a real x-ray of what you are going to find there. The Monument Valley is an incredible place, one of those that you have seen a thousand times in movies and when you are there you don't believe you are living it. A place that amazes all travelers and that will surely captivate you.

Remember to write us your adventures, thoughts and doubts in the comments. We read you.

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