Hello Lykkers! Do you know Monument Valley in Arizona-Utah border, is a surreal desert with towering sandstone buttes, vast red plains, and vistas.
This iconic film location is one of the most stunning spots in the American Southwest. Here’s your two-day guide to Monument Valley.
Day 1: Arrival and Exploration
Morning: Journey to the Valley
Begin your adventure by arriving at Monument Valley via car. The closest major cities are Flagstaff, Arizona (about 3 hours away), and Moab, Utah (about 2.5 hours away). For those flying in, Flagstaff Pulliam Airport is the nearest airport. Renting a car is highly recommended for flexibility and access to the valley.
Price: Car rental prices range from $50-$100 per day, depending on the season and vehicle type. Entry to Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park is $8 per person.
Mid-Morning: Visitor Center and Scenic Drive
Head to the Monument Valley Visitor Center to learn about the Navajo culture and history that shape this land. Afterward, embark on the 17-mile self-guided Valley Drive, a dirt road winding through the park’s most famous rock formations like the Mittens, Merrick Butte, and John Ford’s Point. Make sure to stop frequently to take in the stunning views and snap some memorable photos!
Lunch: Enjoy a Navajo taco or frybread at the View Restaurant (around $10-15), located inside The View Hotel, with sweeping vistas of Monument Valley’s iconic landscapes.
Afternoon: Guided Navajo Tour
After lunch, enhance your Monument Valley experience with a guided Navajo tour. These tours, led by local Navajo guides, offer access to restricted areas and provide deep insights into the valley’s geology, culture, and history. Choose from a jeep tour, horseback ride, or photography tour, depending on your interests. Prices range from $75-$150 per person, depending on the duration and type of tour.
Evening: Sunset and Stargazing
As the day draws to a close, find a spot at the Visitor Center or John Ford’s Point to witness a magical Monument Valley sunset. The sandstone formations glow with brilliant shades of red, orange, and purple as the sun dips below the horizon. Once darkness falls, prepare for a spectacular stargazing experience. With minimal light pollution, Monument Valley offers one of the best night skies in the country.
Day 2: Deeper Into the Valley
Morning: Hike Wildcat Trail
Start your second day with a hike along the Wildcat Trail, a 3.2-mile loop trail that circles West Mitten Butte. This trail offers close-up views of the buttes and mesas and is the only self-guided hiking trail in Monument Valley. Be sure to bring water, sunscreen, and a hat, as the trail offers little shade. The hike is free, but a donation to the Navajo Nation is appreciated.
Midday: Explore Nearby Attractions
Take a short drive to nearby attractions like Mystery Valley, a less-visited area featuring hidden arches, petroglyphs, and ancient ruins. Alternatively, visit Goulding’s Trading Post Museum, which offers a glimpse into the history of the area, including memorabilia from classic Western films shot in the valley.
Lunch: Return to the View Restaurant or stop by the nearby Goulding’s Stagecoach Dining Room for a meal (around $12-20).
Afternoon: Scenic Drive to Valley of the Gods
End your trip with a scenic drive to the nearby Valley of the Gods. Often called a “mini Monument Valley,” this area offers similar red rock formations with fewer crowds. Enjoy the peaceful drive and take in the stunning scenery. The road is unpaved but generally accessible to most vehicles.
Evening: Departure
As the day winds down, head back to your accommodation or begin your journey home, reflecting on the natural beauty and cultural significance of Monument Valley.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Monument Valley is in spring (April to May) and fall (September to October), when temperatures are mild, and the crowds are smaller. Summer can be hot, with temperatures exceeding 90°F, while winter nights can be cold, but the snow-dusted formations are a sight to behold.
Accommodation Options
Budget: Goulding’s Lodge Campground (from $40 per night) – Offers campsites and RV hookups with stunning views.
Mid-range: The View Hotel (from $150 per night) – Provides comfortable rooms with private balconies overlooking the valley.
Luxury: Goulding’s Lodge (from $250 per night) – Offers upscale rooms, a museum, and a restaurant.
From its iconic sandstone buttes to the deep cultural connections of the Navajo people, Monument Valley is more than just a scenic destination—it’s a journey through time. This mystical landscape promises an adventure like no other. Embrace the spirit of the Wild West and let Monument Valley captivate your heart.
