Top Hotels and Attractions in Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park

Exploring the Majestic Landscape of Monument Valley

Known for its iconic sandstone buttes and mesas set against a backdrop of blue skies, Monument Valley is one of the most recognizable landscapes in the American Southwest. Located on the Arizona-Utah border within the Navajo Nation Reservation, this area has been featured in countless classic Western films and photographs. From panoramic sunset views to guided hiking tours, Monument Valley offers a variety of ways for travelers to experience the majestic beauty of this sacred Native American landscape.

Overview of Monument Valley

Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park spans the northeast corner of Arizona and southeast corner of Utah within the Navajo Nation Reservation. The valley lies within the Colorado Plateau region at an elevation of around 5,564 feet (1,693 m). While Monument Valley only covers about 30,000 acres (12,140 ha), the surrounding Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park encompasses over 92,000 acres (37,230 ha) of majestic buttes, spires, and sandstone formations.

The towering sandstone formations of Monument Valley rise up to 1,000 feet (305 m) above the valley floor. These stark and striking landforms have been shaped over centuries by wind and water erosion. Iconic formations include the Mittens, the Three Sisters, and Elephant Butte. The valley also contains areas of sand dunes and pristinePetroglyphs carved into the rock walls provide evidence of Ancestral Puebloan and early Navajo settlements in the valley dating back nearly 2,000 years.

Top Hotels in Monument Valley

Monument Valley has a handful of hotels located within the tribal park to provide accommodations for visitors. Here are some of the top-rated hotels and lodges in this stunning desert landscape:

The View Hotel

Perched right on the edge of Monument Valley, The View Hotel offers premier panoramic views from each room's private balcony. The Navajo-owned hotel features Southwestern styled rooms with handcrafted furniture. Guests can start their day with a complimentary continental breakfast. There is also an on-site restaurant and gift shop.

Goulding's Lodge & Campground

This historic lodge dates back to the 1920s and was frequented by early Hollywood filmmakers. Goulding's offers lodge rooms, suites, and cabins with views of Monument Valley. Guests can enjoy amenities like a restaurant, gift shop, small museum, and pool. The on-site campground has tent sites and RV hookups.

Sacred Monument Resort

Located just minutes from the Monument Valley visitor center, Sacred Monument Resort provides cozy rooms and suites with desert views. The hotel offers modern amenities combined with Navajo cultural elements. Guests can relax at their restaurant and sports bar, heated indoor pool, and gift shop. Horseback riding, hiking, and jeep tours of the valley can be arranged.

Monument Valley Campground

For a more rustic lodging experience, Monument Valley Campground lets you sleep under the stars. The campground offers an array of accommodation types including campsites for RVs and tents, simple wooden cabins, and traditional hogans - round dwellings used in Native American cultures of the Southwest. A general store, restaurant, and gas station make it convenient for campers.

Key Sights to See in Monument Valley

Monument Valley boasts an incredible landscape to explore and photograph. Here are some of the top attractions and sights you won't want to miss during your visit:

Monument Valley Scenic Drive

The 17-mile self-guided scenic drive winds through the heart of Monument Valley, delivering non-stop views of its iconic rock formations. You can drive yourself or book a guided jeep tour. Stop at designated pullouts for photo ops along the way.

John Ford's Point

Named for the famed Western film director, this viewpoint offers one of the most stunning panoramas of Monument Valley's buttes and mesas. It was a favorite filming location for John Ford and provides the classic postcard view.

Totem Pole

Resembling a tall totem pole, this slender sandstone column rises nearly 150 feet skyward and has become an iconic image of the American Southwest. It's a short hike from the Monument Valley Visitor Center parking area.

Horseback Riding

One of the best ways to experience Monument Valley up close is on a horseback riding tour. Local Native American guides lead rides through the valley, sharing stories about the landscape and Navajo traditions.

Star Gazing

With dark night skies unspoiled by light pollution, Monument Valley is a remarkable place for stargazing. Campers and hotel guests alike can gaze upward at the dazzling celestial display, complete with shooting stars.

Planning Your Visit to Monument Valley

Here are some tips to help make the most of your Monument Valley getaway:

When to Visit

While beautiful year-round, the best times to visit Monument Valley are in spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) when daytime temperatures are milder. Summers can be very hot.

Explore the Valley with a Navajo Guide

Book a guided jeep, hiking, or horseback tour led by an expert Navajo guide. They share unique insights into Navajo history, culture, and legends associated with the valley's formations.

Watch the Sunrise and Sunset

Make sure to catch both the sunrise and sunset in Monument Valley when the rock formations glow in stunning light. Sunrise and sunset viewing spots are clearly designated along the scenic drive.

Photograph Iconic Views

Monument Valley is one of the most photogenic landscapes in the world. Bring your camera and zoom lens to capture those quintessential postcard-style shots.

Try Traditional Navajo Food

From frybread to mutton stew, savor authentic flavors by sampling Navajo dishes at hotel restaurants and roadside vendors around the valley.

With its larger-than-life rock formations shimmering in vivid colors, Monument Valley's desert landscape seems almost unreal. But this sacred Native American landscape is very real and very much worth a visit. Booking a stay at one of the valley's hotels, lodges, or campgrounds lets you experience the majesty of Monument Valley at its finest while soaking up Southwest culture.

FAQs

Where exactly is Monument Valley located?

Monument Valley straddles the border between northeastern Arizona and southeastern Utah within the Navajo Nation Reservation. It sits within the northern region of the Colorado Plateau.

What is the best time of year to visit Monument Valley?

The ideal times to visit Monument Valley are in spring (March-May) and fall (September-November). Daytime temperatures during these seasons are milder compared to the hot summers. There is less chance of heavy snow in winter.

What is there to see and do in Monument Valley?

Top activities include driving or joining guided jeep tours along the Monument Valley Scenic Drive loop to admire views of the Mittens and other rock formations. Hiking trails lead to formations like Totem Pole. Horseback riding tours are also popular. Photographers flock here for iconic landscape shots, especially at sunrise and sunset.

Where can I stay overnight in Monument Valley?

Accommodations options include hotels like The View Hotel, Goulding's Lodge, and Sacred Monument Resort. For a rustic experience, camp at Monument Valley Campground or rent a traditional Navajo hogan.

Is there an entry fee for Monument Valley?

Yes, there is an entry fee to access Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park. As of 2023, the entry fee per vehicle is $25 and includes up to four adult passengers. Fees help support the Navajo Nation who manage the tribal park.