Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park is a unique and stunning place located in the heart of the American Southwest. Located on the border of Arizona and Utah, this park is a sacred place for the Navajo people and a fascinating destination for travelers interested in Native American culture and the region’s stunning natural beauty.
The park is home to some of the world’s most famous rock formations, with high-grade red sandstone and crags rising above the desert floor. These formations were formed by millions of years of wind and water erosion, creating a stunning landscape that seems almost otherworldly.
There are many ways for visitors to explore the park and learn about its rich cultural heritage. One of the most popular options is to take a tour with a Navajo guide who can tell stories and legends about the land and its people. These tours are offered in a variety of formats, from jeep tours to horseback riding, and can be tailored to suit any traveler’s interests and preferences.
A must-see in the park is the Monument Valley Visitor Center, where visitors can learn about the history and culture of the Navajo people through exhibits, films and live demonstrations. The center also offers ranger-led programs, guided walks and cultural demonstrations, providing a deeper understanding of the park’s significance to the Navajo people.
For those who want to spend more time in the park, there are several overnight options. Located in a park, the View Hotel offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and comfortable, modern facilities. There are also several campsites in and around the park for those who want a more rustic experience. See the story of The Three Sisters standing next to 17 Mile Drive in Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park
The Complete Travel Guide to Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park
How to get to Monument Valley?
Monument Valley is located on the Navajo Nation in the Four Corners region of the United States, near the border of Arizona and Utah. Here are some common ways to get there.
- By carMany visitors to Monument Valley arrive by car, and the park is easily accessible by road. The park is located along US Highway 163, which runs between Cayenta, Arizona and Mexican Hat, Utah. From there you can follow the signs to the park entrance.
- On tourThere are several tour companies that offer tours of Monument Valley, including jeep tours, horseback riding, and hiking. These tours usually include transportation to and from the park, as well as a guide who can provide additional information about the history and culture of the park.
- With airplaneThere are several regional airports near Monument Valley, including Page Municipal Airport in Arizona and Montezuma County Airport in Colorado. From there you can rent a car or arrange a shuttle service to take you to the park.
- By busThere are also several bus companies that offer transportation to Monument Valley, including Greyhound and several regional carriers. However, these services may have limited schedules and may not be the most convenient option for all visitors.
Best time to visit Monument Valley.
The best time to visit Monument Valley depends on your interests and what you hope to experience during your trip. Here are some things to consider when planning your visit:
- weatherMonument Valley has a desert climate with hot summers and mild winters. If you prefer cooler temperatures, the best time to visit is October through April, when daytime temperatures are typically in the 50s and 60s Fahrenheit. If you prefer warmer weather, the summer months of June through August can see daytime temperatures in the 90s Fahrenheit.
- MultitudesMonument Valley can get quite busy during the peak travel season, which usually runs from May to September. If you prefer a quieter experience with fewer crowds, visit in the off-season from October to April.
- Events and activitiesThe park hosts several events throughout the year, including cultural celebrations and traditional Navajo ceremonies. If you are interested in attending these events, check the park’s event calendar to plan your visit accordingly.
- DecorationMonument Valley’s stunning rock formations and landscapes are beautiful year-round, but some visitors prefer the colors of the desert in the spring and fall months, when the sun is lower in the sky and the colors are more vivid.
Is Monument Valley free?
No, Monument Valley is not free. As of September 2021, the entrance fee to Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park is $20 per person for visitors ages 9 and older as of September 2021. Admission is free for children 8 and younger.
It’s worth noting that there are other fees associated with visiting the park, such as camping, tour and photography permit fees, which may vary depending on the specific activities you plan to do in the park. However, the entrance fee is the main fee that all visitors are required to pay to enter the park.
How long does it take to visit Monument Valley?
The amount of time you need to visit Monument Valley can vary depending on your interests and what you want to see and do in the park. However, most visitors usually spend around 2-3 hours driving around the park’s scenic circuit and stopping at various viewpoints to take in the magnificent scenery.
If you have more time and are interested in hiking or exploring the park’s cultural and historical sites, you can plan a longer visit. The park offers several hiking trails ranging from easy to strenuous, and there are also guided tours available that can provide additional insight into the park’s history and culture.
Overall, I would recommend planning to spend at least a few hours in Monument Valley to fully appreciate its beauty and unique cultural significance.
What is the best trail in Monument Valley?
Monument Valley offers several hiking trails, each with its own unique features and scenery. The best path for you will depend on your interests, fitness and the time you have available. Here are some of the most popular trails in Monument Valley:
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Wildcat Trail – This 3.2 mile trail is the only self-guided hiking trail in the park and is considered by many to be the best. It takes you around West Mitten Butte and offers great views of the valley and its famous formations.
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Merrick Butte Trail – This 2.4-mile round-trip hike takes you to the summit of Merrick Butte and offers panoramic views of the valley and surrounding desert landscape.
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Hunt’s Mesa Trail – This 6-mile hike is considered one of the most difficult trails in the park, but it offers some of the most spectacular views. It takes you to the top of Hunt’s Mesa, which provides a bird’s eye view of the entire valley.
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North Window Trail – This 1.2 mile round trip hike takes you to a natural arch in the rock formation known as the North Window. It’s a relatively easy hike and offers some great photo opportunities.
These are just a few of the many hiking trails in Monument Valley, and there are several other options to explore depending on your interests and abilities. As always on the trails, be sure to bring plenty of water, wear appropriate footwear, and follow all park rules and regulations.
The best hike in Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park.
Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park offers several camping options, each with its own unique features and amenities. Here are some of the best hiking options in the park.
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The View Campground – This campsite is located inside the park and offers stunning views of the iconic rock formations. It has 95 campsites with electricity and water hookups, as well as showers and toilets. There is also a restaurant on site that serves traditional Navajo cuisine.
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Camp Goulding – This campground is located just outside the park and offers 62 campsites with full hookups. It also has showers, toilets and a laundry room. The camp is part of the Goulding’s Lodge complex, which includes a restaurant, gift shop and museum.
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Navajo National Monument Campground – This campground is located about 50 miles from Monument Valley and offers 31 campsites with no hookups. It has restrooms, picnic tables, and fire pit grills and is located near several hiking trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
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Primitive camp – If you prefer to camp off the beaten path, the park offers several areas for primitive camping. These areas do not have facilities or services, but they offer a more secluded and natural camping experience.
It’s important to note that hiking in Monument Valley can be popular and campgrounds can fill up quickly, especially during peak travel season between May and September. Be sure to book in advance to secure a spot.
No matter how you choose to explore Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park, one thing is for sure. this is a destination that will leave you in awe and inspiration. With its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, it is a place that truly feels like a journey through time and culture.