Monument Valley
Near the Four Corners, a geographic point at the intersection of four U.S. states, Monument Valley is the quintessential American natural site, known for its red geological formations that rise from the ground amid desert landscapes. Located in the heart of Arizona, the area is also a Navajo reservation and part of the Colorado Plateau.
Locations
5
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Mylène @unreveunvoyage
The entrance to Monument Valley park is via US163. At the Navajo Welcome Center, take Monument Valley Road eastward. After just over 4 km, you will reach the park entrance (toll). The America the Beautiful Pass (also called the Interagency Annual Pass) IS NOT ACCEPTED as you are on Navajo territory. Expect to pay $8/person (valid for 4 days).
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Mylène @unreveunvoyage
It is important to know that Monument Valley is in the middle of nowhere. Even medium-sized towns are hours away by car. Despite the influx of tourists, the options for accommodation are very limited, and places fill up quickly.
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Mylène @unreveunvoyage
The site is primarily known for its three immense rocky buttes located in the middle of a valley: West Mitten Butte, East Mitten Butte, and Merrick Butte. One discovers vast desert expanses of dazzling orange where enormous monoliths rise from the ground. This landscape has also served as a backdrop in many films for many years: Forrest Gump, Cars, Transformers 4, Back to the Future III, Thelma and Louise...
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Mylène @unreveunvoyage
Valley Drive (27 km circuit) is open every day from 7 AM to 6 PM from April to September and from 8 AM to 4 PM from October to March. You must start Valley Drive before its closing time. Once closed, vehicles have until sunset to complete the loop and exit. The Visitor Center is located at the end of Monument Valley Road and offers stunning views of Monument Valley. Private companies offering 4x4 tours (jeep tours) or horseback riding are waiting in 2 huts in the parking lot. The Visitor Center is generally open every day from 7 AM to 8 PM from May to September and from 8 AM to 5 PM from October to April. Sometimes closed due to lack of staff. Please note that Monument Valley follows Utah time in summer and Arizona time in winter. So consider this factor if you have a guided tour scheduled.
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Mylène @unreveunvoyage
Monument Valley is a stunning natural site located on Navajo land. It embodies the mystery of the American West. Although it is a tourist destination, Monument Valley remains one of the most beautiful places to see in the United States.
Places to discover
Selected by our community of explorers
Forrest Gump Point
- Viewpoint
In addition to being mythical due to the iconic film, this viewpoint offers a breathtaking panorama.
Goosenecks State Park
- Nature
- Viewpoint
An impressive set of rock cavities naturally carved by the passage of water offering panoramic views.
Goulding's Lodge
- Hotel
- Camping
- Camping Car
- Housing
Various rooms in the heart of Monument Valley, including spacious suites and hillside villas equipped with modern amenities to explore the park.
Muley Point Overlook
- Nature
- Viewpoint
This superb viewpoint is located above the swan necks of the San Juan River and offers one of the most impressive views in all of Canyon Country.
The View Hotel
- Hotel
- Camping
- Camping Car
- Housing
Private and fully furnished cabins, a space to accommodate motorhomes, or an area for wild camping: the only hotel inside the park offers a unique way to experience it.
Valley Drive
- Road
- Viewpoint
Scenic route of the park leading to a group of red cliffs in the distance.
Valley of the Gods
- Road
- Viewpoint
The Valley of the Gods, in French, is a picturesque region near Monument Valley, with isolated mesas, imposing pinnacles, and vast open spaces.