Are you interested in exploring the valley’s type of place surrounded by culture, photography, sunset-sunrise view and adventure? Monument valley is an outstanding destination to visit. It is popular for scenic drives, horseback riding and travel guides. This destination is on the border of Northern Arizona, it’s a family friendly place to make the best memorable trip. This is a scenic place, monument valley represents a powerful visual and cultural symbol of the American southwest. It is known for its iconic red stone buttes standing tall in the blue sky. This place is also the most legendary filming location in the US. The rocky formation and sweeping red desert is the area drawn for film makers. The Monument Valley is an unforgettable trip, it’s the most precious of the Southwest.
In this post, we will discuss Monument Valley and their features such as things to do, watch best views, travel tips for first time visitors and top attractions.
Best Views in Monument Valley
There are several perfect views in Monument Valley such as the panorama from the visitor center, John Ford’s point and the artist’s point. You can visit their places at sunrise or sunset times. It’s the best time to witness vibrant and red-rock desert landscapes.
The Mittens & Merrick Butte
This place is the first major viewpoint along Monument Valley Drive. You can see the large merrick butte as well as two mitten twins. The colossal sandstone masterpieces are sculpted by millennia of wind and water, creating the breathtaking panorama. Especially at sunrise or sunset time, when their colors intensify. There are many spots for photography like the hotel terrace and the monument view point parking area. These sports offer stunning views of the sun casting deep red, orange and purple.
Artist’s Point
Artist Point is a stunning overlook that provides breathtaking views of west mitten butte, merrick butte and east mitten butte. Visitors come to describe it as a dream true and most beautiful spot on the drive. The area was virtually empty, making it a peaceful and special place with natural beauty. There is limited capacity during the pandemic, no crowds and allow visitors to fully appreciate the scenery.
Horseshoe bend
Explore a horseshoe bend, it’s the most breathtaking wonders in the world. There are two most famous destinations in the region are horseshoe bend and Monument Valley. It is a mesmerizing horseshoe shaped curve in the Colorado river. It is known for jaw dropping beauty, with emerald water against the rust colored cliffs that rise around it.
Mexican Hat
The stunning scenic view of Mexican Hat is an outstanding must see if you love the outdoors. The Mexican Hat is an awe-inspiring wide open landscape demanded to explore. If you’re in the region and want to experience much of the splendor of surrounding areas you can. The gouldings are amazing guided tours, they will allow you to access areas that are not available otherwise you receive. In depth information about surroundings from well with the trained professional tour guides.
Top Things to Do in Monument Valley
If you plan to visit Arizona or Utah, you will know what to do in Monument Valley. Navajo Tribal park is the home of iconic landscapes in the country. Visit there for the first time, know the best things to do and plan the perfect way to spend your day.
Scenic Drive
Driving the 17 mile loop road on Monument valley scenic drive is the best thing to do in this place and is a great way to start your day. There are several stops to scenic drive to get out and see different viewpoints, it’s so amazing. It also provides a close view of famous formations such as the Mittens, Elephant Butte and John Ford’s Point. The solo guide route is the perfect way to experience the park easily, they offer classic desert landscapes, photogenic vistas and explore some peace.
Photography Tours in Monument Valley
The first professional photographer, Josef Muench, entered this area, Monument Valley has been truly one kind of photographer’s paradise. You can enjoy and explore this photographer’s paradise for yourself on a photography tour. The best angle for photography using wide angle lenses for scale during the golden hours, and long lenses for compression.
Horseback Riding Experience
The horseback riding in Monument valley offers Navajo guided, western experience, taking riders through red rock landscapes like Mittens. They will provide horses for both the beginners and experienced riders.The navajo horseback riding tours offer immersive journeys through the restricted and the breathtaking desert landscapes.
Explore Visitor Center and Museum
Camp Nelson National features a visitor center and museum. Visitors can learn about camp Nelson national by watching the 17 minute film. Explore new exhibits designed and complete junior ranger booklets, include the railroad network to freedom and purchase keepsake in book stores. You can engage people to learn about trail systems, events, programs and guided tours.
Entrance Fees & Permits of Monument Valley
How much you spend, it depends on what you do on the way. There are some general ideas of what to expect.
- Park Entry: Per person $8, pay the cash at the gate of Monument Valley Navajo Tribal park. They offer access to a 17 mile scenic loop with outstanding views.
- Guided Tours: $60 – $120 per person, it depends on the length and type of tour like jeep, horseback and sunrise. The tour is the only way to access restricted backcountry areas.
- Self Guided Trails: Free with park admission. There is no extra permit needed for wildcat trail and Lee Cly Trail.
- Cash Policy: Some independent, local tour guides and outside hotel areas take cash. With the facilities of the hotel,the visitor center has a cashless system.
Travel Tips
For your perfect trip to Monument Valley, book a Navajo guided tour to restricted areas, drive a high clearance vehicle and visit during spring and fall time. Bring some cash for fees, carry water and watch time zone changes.
- Cost: The park admission is $10 per person and if you rent a vehicle it costs $15. If you explore further and you need to purchase a backcountry permit, it costs $15 per day. The jeep tour starts at $15 per person.
- What you’ll need: If you plan to drive in loop. you will have a high clearance vehicle that manages the rugged dirt road. also bring water, snacks and offline maps.
- Packing: Visitors can travel around the world to photograph the stunning Monument Valley. You should pack some major things in your luggage like clothes, shoes, hat, sunglasses, jacket and first aid kit.
- Respect culture and land: Respect to the navajao culture and land, it involves the sacredness of nature, they follow local guidance and practise mindfulness.
Where to Stay Near Monument Valley
If you visit Monument Valley and search for the best hotel to stay in. There are some options to stay such as the view hotel and Goulding’s lodge. They also have nearby towns like kayenta and mexican hat.
The View Hotel
The view hotel was opened in December 2008, they feature carefully designed accommodations that serve the needs of visitors around the world. There are three floors that provide 95 rooms, each one with a private balcony with views of anywhere else in the world. The top floor is starview rooms with unforgettable views of the stars and serves a perfect venue for amateur night time.
Goulding’s
Enjoy the stunning views in monument valley at the Goulding Lodge, it is the premier loading and recreation destination. Guests can enjoy the cuisine at a restaurant & relax in the indoor pool. It is best to select the lodge, they offer stylish amenities like free wifi, air conditioning & stunning views on the terrace. It is perfect for staying with families, it’s so relaxing & comfortable.
Ideal Time to Visit Monument Valley
Monument Valley is excellent year round, but each season can bring its own personality. Here are what to expect during each season and what makes the perfect time for you.
Spring: they offer mild day time temperature and chill nights, with fewer crowds & occasional wildflower blooms. It is an excellent time for hiking & photography, or in the early spring season it can be windy & chilly.
Summer: It brings extreme heat, crowd viewpoint and dramatic afternoons. Long days or full access to tours and facilities, this is a popular time. In that time plan to hike for early morning and seek shade midday.
Winter: The winter is the quietest time to visit. The snow dusted mesas and empty trails create a real beauty. Especially for sunrise and stargazing, so be prepared for freezing nights, tour availability and daylight hours.
Fall: It is arguably the sweet sport, with stable weather, fewer visitors than summer and glowing red rock light. It will be your favorite season for both photographers and campers.
Final Thoughts
Overall, if you prefer self exploration or travelling as part of guided tour, Monument Valley has many offers and is well worth your visiting. This destination has red rock formation, sandy plains and desert landscape. The area has the backdrop of some of Hollywood’s most iconic films. Monument Valley is a perfect destination for photographers, couples and adventure lovers. With the feature of stunning sunrises, sunsets and navajo culture. Visit with your family and friends as they offer jeep tours, hiking and drives, it makes unforgettable experiences.
