Located along the Arizona-Utah border you will find the breathtaking Monument Valley. Featured in many movies over the years, you’ve likely seen the iconic scenery at some point or another. Seeing it in person is even better than you can imagine.
Although commonly thought of as a national park, Monument Valley is actually part of the Navajo Nation. (Your National Park Pass will not be accepted here!) This area is known as Tsé Biiʼ Ndzisgaii in Navajo, which means “Valley of the Rocks.” Some families still live here, with no access to electricity or running water.
You can take one of the tours offered here, or you can take the route that we opted for and drive yourself around the 17 mile loop and take a self guided tour. The grated dirt roads provide a fun and unique way to get around the park. Plenty of pull off areas are provided for when you want to get out, stretch your legs, and snap a few stunning photos.
Some of the dirt/sand can get a little thick at times, so we were happy to have rented a small SUV. Don’t let that stop you from giving it a try, as we saw many small cars that were making their way through the terrain as well.
There are several hiking trails you can take advantage of during your visit, with difficulties ranging from easy to strenuous. If you want to feel like you are in a Western movie, you can take advantage of the horseback riding that is offered by the Navajos.
Monument Valley does have a fairly early closing time for the park, so be sure to do your research before you make the drive out there!
I would recommend this geologically fascinating trip to anyone. It is a truly unique destination and you can help to support the Navajo Nation.
On my bucket list for sure! I think it would really help if your post included a map – or even just a link to one. We have visited the Grand Canyon and Mesa Verde which actually bracket this site. Somehow we missed out both times, but then you cannot see everything!
Maybe I’ll get out there this year or next. Excellent insight through the beautiful photos and write-up.
Thanks so much! I hope you get to go there soon!
Such a fun place to drive! And the scenery is jaw-dropping. I did not know the Navajo name – beautiful.
Fabulous photos!
Thanks so much!
I haven’t been here since I was probably 5 or younger! I’d love to go back here as I don’t remember much at all, and I’d love to have some photos of it to remember it through. It looks so stunning!
It was a gorgeous drive for sure!
this is one area of the USA I have not seen but your photos make me want to go immediately.
I hope you get to go soon! I’m sure you would love it!
Great info. Cool pictures. I believe I remember the opening of an Indiana Jones movie taking place in that park. Now I know the name and location. Thanks. Its now on my bucket list!
Thanks for your comment! It is such a fun place to explore 🙂
Great blog voyages. John Ford and John Wayne, Maureen O’Hara and Ward Bond will never die.