Monument Valley — Attraction in Oljato-Monument Valley

You can't beat the view! Just that alone is worth the price of admission, which has increased significantly over the years. If you want free views, there are plenty along the highway. Be prepared to shell out $8 per person to enter the park for the day. This is a Navajo Tribal Park so your US National Park Pass will not work here. The scenic loop drive has become increasingly more difficult over the years. I first visited Monument Valley 17 years ago and have since visited 3 more times. I don't think a road grader has touched that road in all that time! I first did the drive 17 years ago in my basic sedan car and did not have too many issues. Now be prepared for some pretty scary rock portions on the entrance/exit part of the road which descends into the valley. We made it in and out with our family minivan, but we were close to having rocks puncture the undercarriage or getting stuck in some deep sand. Hate it how the tour vehicles just blow past you while you are trying to find a way around the obstacles. There definitely needs to be some sort of sign disclaiming the rough road, but nothing. I'm amazed more people don't get stuck driving that road! The staff working the park are extremely rude. Look, I get it, if you are a native Navajo resident the valley is considered sacred to you. But if you have decided to open it up for tourists, then you need to lighten up and be hospitable. The front gate attendant wouldn't even make eye contact or give any basic information. On the scenic loop a Navajo woman in her SUV was honking and screaming at a French couple who had pulled to the side of the road to take pictures. There was more than enough space for people to get around, but she stopped there in her Suburban, honking and screaming at these people until they got in their car and went to a dedicated pull off space in which she stopped again and continued screaming at them. It sounded more like New York City than the middle of the wilderness! Please, if you want people to come see your amazing views, you need to treat them as guests and not a nuisance! If they are a nuisance, shut down your park and let the tourists view it from the road. I've seen plenty of annoying tourists at National Parks and while park rangers have to also enforce rules, they do so in a way to help the people understand why and still give them a...

It's kind of interesting when you have been to some place or look someplace up Google like you to review it. Okay I've been to Monument Valley many times. My grandchildren live up in Monument Valley near olito and I don't think I spelled that right but they are very happy there. My son-in-law moved back home with the grandkids and taught me about peace and tranquility.

I live in Mesa Arizona and there's a lot of noise and traffic and crowd and when I really want to get away I like to go camping. There's a lot of great places to camp all over Arizona. The thing I like best about Monument Valley is that it is so quiet. I mean where else can you go to sleep and not hear anything all night but maybe the bark of a dog here and there or the coyotes making some noise but realistically all night it is so quiet.

I want to take photographs of stars and when I want to I head up here. The monuments are fantastic to take pictures of and there's so many beautiful scenic views. Think of all the John Ford movies that were made here with John Wayne and all the famous westerns that they told you were all over the Southwest but most of them were shot right up in Monument Valley because of the awesome backdrops. Yeah you can go down to Old Tucson studios and see stage sets of western scenes but if you want to see the real scenes. If you want to go out and see the things that are creator made in there infinite beauty this is a good place to go.

There's some places to camp up in Monument Valley there's some hotels lodges in the area I think it Goulding's Lodge is one. The thing I like about this area is if you're traveling there are modes and venues for every type of interest. If you want to go take it to her they're great tour companies that will drive you through the scenic loop. If you want to take your own car it's like eight bucks ahead to get in and it's a beautiful ride. If you want to camp they are all kinds of private camp sites that people's property and there's even a KOA in the area.

remember to get fuel and food before you head way out here though. There's only one or two places to get food in like kayenta or in Monument Valley itself but the prices are not what you're going to find in the big cities if you're coming from Phoenix...

Monument Valley, located on the border of Utah and Arizona, is a breathtaking testament to the raw beauty of the American Southwest. Its iconic sandstone buttes, rising dramatically from the desert floor, have been the backdrop for countless films and photographs, but experiencing it in person is a whole new level of awe-inspiring.

Scenery & Atmosphere

The landscape is otherworldly. Towering rock formations, vivid red earth, and expansive skies create a palette that shifts colors throughout the day, from the golden hues of sunrise to the deep, fiery tones of sunset. The stillness and vastness of the valley evoke a profound sense of peace and connection to nature.

Accessibility & Tours

While you can admire some views from the main highway, the real magic lies within Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park. The park’s 17-mile scenic loop drive offers closer views of iconic formations like the Mittens and Totem Pole. Guided tours led by Navajo guides are highly recommended—they not only take you to restricted areas but also provide rich cultural insights into the land’s history and significance to the Navajo Nation.

Cultural Significance

Beyond its stunning visuals, Monument Valley holds deep cultural and spiritual importance. It is part of the Navajo Nation, and visitors can learn about Navajo traditions, stories, and crafts. The local culture adds an enriching layer to the experience, making it more than just a scenic visit.

Practical Considerations

The park is well-maintained, with a visitor center offering amenities like restrooms, a gift shop, and a small café. There’s also The View Hotel, which offers stunning accommodations with balconies facing the iconic formations. However, the area is remote, so plan ahead with water, snacks, and a full tank of gas.

Final Thoughts

Monument Valley is not just a destination; it’s an experience—a journey through time, culture, and nature. Whether you’re a photographer, a history enthusiast, or simply someone seeking natural beauty, this iconic landscape is a must-visit. It’s a place where the grandeur of nature and the richness of culture come together, leaving an indelible mark on your soul.

Highly...