Monument Valley is more than a scenic landscape; it’s a journey into the heart of the American Southwest, where time slows down, and the natural beauty overwhelms the senses.
Set against vast blue skies and the rich red earth, this valley is steeped in Native American culture and the romance of the Old West.
Imagine watching towering sandstone buttes catch the morning light, wandering along ancient trails, and feeling the whispers of the past in the air. Here are three experiences in Monument Valley that will stir your soul and stay with you forever.
The Mittens and Merrick Butte: Sunrise at the Edge of Eternity
There’s nothing quite like watching the sunrise over the Mittens and Merrick Butte. As dawn breaks over Monument Valley, the sky transforms into a canvas of pinks, purples, and golds, casting soft light onto these famous buttes that rise like ancient guardians from the desert floor. Standing here, surrounded by silence and the vastness of the valley, feels like stepping into a timeless world. The shadows stretch long and dramatic across the landscape, and for a few precious moments, it’s as if the earth itself is holding its breath.
The Mittens and Merrick Butte
Getting there: Monument Valley is most easily accessed by car, making it a perfect road trip destination. From Phoenix, Las Vegas, or Salt Lake City, it’s a scenic drive of 4-5 hours to reach Monument Valley Tribal Park. Once you arrive, follow signs to the visitor center where you can enter the park.
Where to eat: Begin your day at The View Restaurant, located right inside the park. They serve a delicious breakfast featuring traditional Navajo fry bread with honey and local green chili stew. Imagine sipping hot coffee while watching the sunrise from your table—it’s a memory you’ll carry forever.
Where to stay: For an unmatched experience, book a room at The View Hotel, where every room faces the valley, giving you a private sunrise view from your balcony. Alternatively, stay at Goulding’s Lodge, a historic site with options to stay in traditional Navajo hogans, giving you a true taste of life in the Southwest.
Opening hours: Monument Valley Tribal Park is open year-round, with summer hours from 6 am to 8 pm and winter hours from 8 am to 4:30 pm. Arrive early to catch the first light as it touches the valley.
What to bring and tips: Bring layers, as mornings can be chilly even in summer. A good camera and binoculars are essential, as the sights here are something you’ll want to capture forever. Remember, this is Navajo land, so respect the culture and follow the park’s guidelines.
Valley Drive: A Journey Through a Majestic Desert Wonderland
Valley Drive is a 17-mile unpaved loop that takes you on a journey through some of the valley’s most incredible rock formations, such as Elephant Butte, Three Sisters, and the famous John Ford’s Point. Each formation along this scenic drive is unique, shaped by millions of years of wind and erosion, with legends embedded in every rock. As you make your way along the dusty road, it feels as though you’re moving through a living gallery of natural wonders, each turn revealing a new masterpiece.
Getting there: Valley Drive begins near the visitor center after you enter Monument Valley Tribal Park. While a standard car can navigate the route, a high-clearance vehicle is recommended, as the road can be rough and bumpy. To truly immerse yourself, consider booking a guided Navajo tour, where locals share stories and legends that add depth to each rock formation.
Where to eat: After an adventurous day, unwind at Goulding’s Stagecoach Restaurant. Located nearby, this cozy spot serves Navajo favorites such as blue corn mush and mutton stew. The restaurant walls are decorated with artifacts and photos from Monument Valley’s iconic role in Western films, adding an extra layer to the experience.
Where to stay: Goulding’s Lodge is the perfect place to stay after a day on Valley Drive. It’s more than just a hotel; it’s a piece of Monument Valley history, originally a trading post. Here, you’ll find rooms with panoramic views of the valley, a museum dedicated to the area’s film history, and even an indoor pool for a refreshing dip.
Opening hours: Valley Drive is accessible during the park’s operating hours, but mornings and late afternoons are ideal for capturing the landscape in the soft light that adds an otherworldly glow to the rocks.
What to bring and tips: Pack plenty of water, comfortable shoes, and a hat, as the desert sun is intense. Binoculars will let you take in the details of each formation, and a camera with a good zoom lens is invaluable for capturing the grandeur of the valley from different perspectives. Drive cautiously, as the terrain is uneven, and respect all posted signs to preserve this natural wonder
John Ford’s Point: Step into the Scene of the Wild West
John Ford’s Point is a must-visit for its sweeping views of Monument Valley that have been immortalized in Western films. Named after director John Ford, who shot iconic films here, this lookout offers one of the most cinematic views in the valley. Picture standing on a cliff edge, surrounded by a vast red desert that stretches endlessly to the horizon, and you’ll understand why this spot has come to define the spirit of the American West. Often, you’ll find a Navajo horseman on the point, adding a sense of timelessness to the scene and evoking the romance of the Old West.
Getting there: John Ford’s Point is located along Valley Drive, about halfway through the 17-mile loop. The site is well-marked and easily accessible by car or tour vehicle. If you’re part of a guided tour, the guides often bring you here for the views and incredible photo opportunities.
Where to eat: Close by, The View Café offers quick snacks and refreshments, perfect for a midday break. Try their Navajo taco, a delicious mix of fry bread topped with beans, cheese, lettuce, and local spices. Sit on the deck with your meal and take in the views of the valley—it’s as close to a scene from a Western film as you’ll get.
Where to stay: For an unforgettable experience, spend a night at the Monument Valley Tipi Village, where you can stay in a traditional tipi surrounded by the red desert landscape. It’s a unique, rustic stay that immerses you in the beauty of Monument Valley, far from city lights and close to the stars.
Opening hours: Accessible during park hours, but visiting in the late afternoon provides the best lighting for photos and fewer crowds, letting you take in the vastness of the valley in peace.
What to bring and tips: Bring a wide-brimmed hat, sunscreen, and your camera fully charged. The view from John Ford’s Point is one of the most photographed in the valley, so plan to spend some time here just soaking it all in. Be courteous to local Navajo guides and photographers who may be offering horse rides and souvenirs for visitors, as this is a significant cultural and economic hub for the community.
Monument Valley is a place that leaves a mark on your heart, a destination that goes beyond breathtaking views and offers a deep connection to nature and history. From witnessing the sunrise over the Mittens, to exploring the raw beauty along Valley Drive, and feeling the cinematic thrill of John Ford’s Point, every moment in Monument Valley is an experience in awe. The valley stands as a testament to the power of nature, the endurance of culture, and the beauty of untouched wilderness. As you leave, you’ll carry the stillness, grandeur, and timeless spirit of Monument Valley with you—a piece of the Southwest that will forever live in your memory.
