For those who are fans of the better “western” the name “John Wayne” will probably sound familiar. And for those same western fans, the sets where “John Wayne” or “Clint Eastwood” galloped through the wild west as cowboys may also look familiar. After all, the “Monument Valley State Park” became world famous because of the many western movies that were shot there.
Are you planning to visit this wonderful place in the wild West? Be sure to read all the travel tips here!
What is Monument Valley state park?
The Navajo Tribal Park of Monument Valley is a hidden valley located in the Navajo Nation, 1700 feet above sea level. John Wayne called it “God’s treasure” at the time. This majestic valley is one of the most photographed places on earth for a reason.
What makes this place so unique are the masterpieces of sandstone, which tower almost out of nowhere into the landscape. These “monuments” vary in height between 30 and 500 meters and were created by erosion. The shadows of the picturesque clouds wander gracefully across the dark red desert floor, creating an enchanting landscape.
The people who still live in the park have sustained it for generations by living simply.
Monument Valley didn’t just lend its natural beauty to westerns. The film crew of Forest Gump, among others, also settled here. The famous scene where Forest finally stops running was shot in this region (Location: here)
Whether Monument Valley is worth a visit? Definitely!
Where is Monument Valley State Park located?
The valley lies right on the border between the two U.S. states of Utah and Arizona. The part that is in Utah is in the Southeastern part of Utah. For the part in Arizona, it is the Northern part of Arizona. The city of Flagstaff (Arizona) is closest to Monument valley.
Where can I stay near Monument Valley?
There are not really many accommodations near Monument Valley to spend the night. Still, there are some options but it’s best to book as soon as possible for your travel dates to make sure you find a good accommodation. We summarize the options:
Places to stay near Monument Valley State Park
Are you looking for a strategic and comfortable place to stay near Monument Valley Navajo Tribal park?
Then the Goulding’s Lodge is the best choice price-wise.
Places to stay in the region around Monument Valley State Park
A little further away from Monument Valley the prices for an overnight stay are usually a little less than right by the park. If you don’t mind driving 30 – 60 min away from Monument Valley Tribal park then the following places are the best choice:
Kayenta (Az): village next to 163 direction Page.
Mexican Hat (Ut): Village next to 163 direction Moab.
Bluff (Ut): Village next to 163 direction Moab.
Since sleeping arrangements are limited, being quick is the message!
How long is the scenic drive through Monument Valley?
Reckon on about 2-3 hours to drive the scenic drive all the way (including stops).
You are allowed to drive your car in the park (motorcycles are not). It is highly recommended to do the scenic drive through the park. This is a 24 kilometer route that takes you along the most beautiful spots in the valley. The roads are mainly gravel but you don’t need a 4×4 for this. The route consists largely of a loop. You can drive the route between 06:30 and 17:00.
To enter the park you do have to pay admission first. Admission is $8 per person per day.
How much time should you spend in Monument Valley?
To be able to explore the region sufficiently and comfortably, it is best to book at least 1 night. If you plan to do some hikes, a little more time is no luxury. So count on 1 to 2 days.
What is the best time of year to visit Monument Valley State Park?
That depends a bit on whether you can handle warmer temperatures or rather colder ones. July is on average with 32 degrees Celsius the warmest month of the year in Monument Valley. If you want to avoid the crowds and you can handle the warmer temperatures, then July and August are a good choice.
During spring and autumn the temperatures are a bit cooler but you still have nice weather. Think for example of June or September.
If you go to admire Monument Valley in the winter, there is even a chance that the landscape is covered with a white layer of snow.
Hiking trails in Monument Valley State Park
There are 2 hiking trails in Monument Valley Tribal Park that you can hike independently: the Wildcat trail and the Lee Cly Trail.
Both trails start near the visitor center in the park. So you have to pay admission first.
The Wildcat trail is a “scenic” 5.3-mile loop around the West mitten butte. The trail winds through desert landscape past crops and sandy slopes and offers spectacular views of the rock monument from the valley floor. A trail brochure can be picked up at the information desk.
Provide plenty of water, especially when hiking in the summer!
