Spending A Magical Day in Astonishing Monument Valley

Updated December 2025

Spending a day in Monument Valley promises a truly magical experience surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and iconic rock formations. Monument Valley Tribal Park is along the Arizona/Utah border. The Grand Circle tour is a popular itinerary that encompasses several iconic national parks and other natural landmarks in the southwestern United States. Monument Valley isn’t usually part of the Grand Circle tour, but people often add it since it’s close to other popular spots.

Monument Valley as a Tribal Park was established in 1958 and encompasses some 30,000 acres. The towering sandstone buttes of Monument Valley are famous. Some rise from the desert valley floor 400 – 1,000 feet.

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How do I get to Monument Valley?

Driving to Monument Valley is a popular choice as it allows for flexibility and the opportunity to explore the surrounding area at your own pace. The main entrance to Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park is off Highway 163. The park is approximately 5.5 hours north of Phoenix, Arizona, and about 2.2 hours southeast of Page, Arizona. It’s important to note that some parts of the road leading to Monument Valley may be unpaved, so consider the suitability of your vehicle.

If you prefer to fly to the area, the closest major airports are Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) or McCarran International Airport in Las Vegas (LAS). From there, you can rent a car and drive to Monument Valley. The drive from Phoenix takes about 5.5 hours, while the drive from Las Vegas takes approximately 6 hours.

What you need to know before your visit to Monument Valley

These landmark buttes and mesas here on the Navajo Reservation, are some most photographed in the world. Carved by wind and water for over millions of years, these rock formations are spectacular. The Navajo name is Tse’Bii’Ndzisgaii, meaning “valley of the rocks”. The Navajo People are the largest population of indigenous Americans in the US. Exploring the American southwest, with its red rocks and water-carved canyons, is all about appreciating the wide-open spaces and the way the sky lights up the mesas throughout the day. Unlike at Mesa Verde, there are no cliff dwellings here.

• Visitor Center: Open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Mountain Standard Time). Peak Season (April–September): Open daily from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM; last entry at 4:30 PM. Off-Season (October–March): Open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM; last entry at 2:30 PM.
• Admission Fees: $8 per person, per day. National Park Passes: Not accepted; the Navajo Nation operates the park. Backcountry Permits: Required for hiking or camping off designated trails; available at the Visitor Center.
• Best Time to Visit: Peak Season (April–September): Ideal for full access to the scenic drive and guided tours. Expect warmer temperatures and more visitors. Off-season (October–March): Quieter with cooler temperatures; some services may have reduced hours.
• Leashed pets are allowed on the 17-mile Scenic Drive and the Wildcat Trail, provided they are kept on a leash no longer than six feet.
  

Exploring the Enchanting Southwest: a Journey through Kayenta

Kayenta is the gateway to Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park. Kayenta is a small town on Hwy 163 and lies within the Navajo Reservation. Tourists from Monument Valley stay at motels and fast-food restaurants in town. Construction stops interrupted the drive from Page, and we were weary and tired. It’s a convenient place to stock up on supplies before heading to Monument Valley. We made a brief stop to enjoy a quick lunch before heading into the park for the evening. Kayenta has a Burger King, Sonic Drive-In, Subway restaurant, and McDonald’s. Sonic seemed to be the easiest to get into and back out again. From Kayenta, we drove north on Highway 163 for 20 miles. On the right, we reached the entrance to Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park.

NOTE: Keep in mind that Arizona doesn’t observe daylight savings time—but the Navajo Nation does. Make sure to adjust your watch so you don’t show up late for your tour check-in.

Forrest Gump Point: A Journey to an Iconic Film Location in Monument Valley

You can’t drive Scenic Highway 163 towards Monument Valley without a stop at the one-of-a-kind iconic spot. “Forrest Gump Point” is a nickname given to a scenic spot along Highway 163 near mile marker 13 between Monument Valley and Mexican Hat. The location gained its name because of its appearance in the popular film “Forrest Gump,” where the main character, Forrest Gump (Tom Hanks), finally ends his cross-country run. This area was a prominent setting for many of the John Ford/John Wayne Westerns and other films up through the 1960s. The iconic spot provides a picturesque view reminiscent of the American Southwest. Many visitors stop at this point to take photos and recreate the famous scene from the movie.

There are a few places to pull over and park your car on either side of the road. It is very typical to take a picture on the road. Just be mindful of traffic. Luckily, the road was quiet, so we could stand in the middle and take a photo with Monument Valley in the background. We noted several vendors sold handmade Navajo jewelry on the roadside, and the Forrest Gump sign sat in an open field.

Where to Stay on Your Visit to Monument Valley

Where can one find lodging amidst this expansive and extraordinary landscape? Within and around Monument Valley, several accommodation choices are available. I advise you to secure your lodging well ahead of your visit, as availability may be limited during peak travel periods. Be sure to verify that your selected accommodation includes the essential amenities and services you require, such as internet access, dining facilities, and guided tour options, by reviewing the specific details provided.

What does the awe-inspiring View Hotel have to offer?

The Monument Valley View Hotel is a Navajo-owned business within the Navajo Nation and the Monument Valley Tribal Park. I booked a year in advance. The hotel is at a point where each room can view the Mitten Buttes directly from the room window. There are 3 floors to this hotel, and all rooms overlook the 3 famous monuments and beyond. The View, although it is quite pricey, I knew I was paying for the proximity to ‘the views’. Despite the cost, seeing sunrises and sunsets from our deck was worthwhile. Being at the View simplifies spending a day in Monument Valley.

The rooms have a southwestern native style, are spotless, have comfortable beds and have all the basic amenities, including a microwave and refrigerator. Large bathrooms – organic toiletries and huge towels. Bonus: you get Wi-Fi as a guest of the hotel. No public Wi-Fi or extremely limited cell access. Since our previous visit, they have constructed cabins that might be more suitable for you if you prefer to be away from the hustle and bustle.

Watch a sunrise or sunset in this Mysterious Valley

One of the best things about staying here is the view of the valley. We started our day by witnessing the awe-inspiring sunrise over the valley. Often called the golden hour, sunrise casts a magical glow on the rock formations, creating an ethereal atmosphere.The play of light and shadows on the towering buttes and mesas creates a stunning spectacle.

Spend time at The View Hotel Gift Shop

The service was great, with the staff genuinely interested in helping the guests. The hotel lobby is so big & dramatic with kachinas placed around the central fireplace that goes all the way from the first floor to top of the second floor, & beautiful sculptures, & beautiful woven rugs displayed on walls.There is a gift shop with authentic pottery, jewelry, rugs, and other art. If you stay at the hotel, you get a voucher for 20-dollars off merchandise, it already marked most items down by 50%. We purchased a few jewelry items and a kachina to add to my collection.

 PRO TIP: there is a small museum on the opposite side of the gift shop, which was very interesting and very informative, playing a documentary about the Navajo code talkers in WW2. They have since moved it to its own museum in Kayenta. There is also a Navajo Code Talkers Exhibit at the Burger King.

Navajo Code Talkers Exhibit Museum

We found the Navajo Code Talkers Exhibit to be an engaging display. The displays offer a fresh perspective on the invaluable role played by these extraordinary individuals in military communications. Listening to the stories from the elders’ viewpoint was interesting.

Watch The Unique Nightly Movie at the View

Each evening, the hotel screens classic Westerns outdoors—many of them filmed right here in Monument Valley. That night, they were showing The Searchers with John Wayne, projected against the side of the hotel like an old-school drive-in. We watched from our balcony with the valley spread out before us. The views are breathtaking, and the sunrise and sunset are truly unforgettable.

PRO TIP: Arrive before dusk to capture those incredible sunset shots, and set an early alarm—you won’t want to miss the sunrise.

If you’re into stargazing, this is a magnificent spot because of the virtually total lack of lights. At night, the sky show was out-of-this-world. It seems rare to see the Milky Way these days, and in this remote area, with almost no artificial light, the stars seemed close enough to touch.

For a more immersive experience: The View Campground

If you’re looking for a more rustic experience, camping at The View Campground is a great option. Located inside Monument Valley Tribal Park, you’ll pay the entry fee and then continue up the hill—the campground sits just to the left of the visitor center and The View Hotel. RV and trailer sites are spacious, level, and well maintained, with easy pull-through access (though there are no hookups). The sites are long enough to stay hitched, which is convenient for quick setups. Tent campers get the real prize: the best views in the campground, perched along the hillside and facing directly toward the Mittens.

Goulding’s: A Legacy of Family and Adventure in Monument Valley

Harry Goulding and his wife, Leone, whose nickname was Mike, came to Monument Valley in the early 1920s. A sheep trader, Harry, was looking for a new business opportunity and a place to call home. Monument Valley had once been part of the Paiute Indian Reservation. They moved it when the reservation land opened up for sale. The Gouldings purchased a substantial plot of land and set up a trading post. They conducted business with the local Navajo people, who traded hand-crafted items like rugs and jewelry and pottery in exchange for food and other goods. After living and working in tents for several years, the Gouldings constructed a permanent building, which currently houses the Goulding’s Trading Post and Museum.

During the Great Depression, the Navajo Reservation suffered immensely. Harry heard of a movie production company scouting for locations to film in the Southwest and believed bringing a movie production to Monument Valley would help the local Navajos with much-needed income. With their last $60, Harry and Mike took a trip to Hollywood, California, and persuaded the famous director John Ford to come to Monument Valley to film his 1939 classic “Stagecoach” starring a young actor named John Wayne. The rest is history. Over the years, the Gouldings continued to host movie crews, photographers, artists, and tourists.

Goulding’s Lodge and Campground: Your Access to Monument Valley’s Majestic Beauty

They originally built a small lodge and dining hall to welcome guests, and over the years Goulding’s Lodge has grown into a destination that hosts thousands of visitors from around the world. Knox College purchased the property in 1962 when Harry and Mike Goulding retired; Harry passed away in 1981 and Mike in 1992. Today, the main lodge features 63 guest rooms, each offering sweeping views of Monument Valley’s iconic landmarks—Eagle Mesa, Brigham’s Tomb, King on His Throne, and Stagecoach. Visitors can also check out the filming site of the dramatic lightning-storm scene from the classic movie She Wore a Yellow Ribbon.

Goulding’s Lodge has become more than just a place to stay; it is a tribute to the Goulding family’s vision and their dedication to preserving the beauty of Monument Valley. The lodge features a museum showcasing artifacts, photographs, and memorabilia from the early days, allowing visitors to step back in time and appreciate the family’s impact on the area.

Amenities include a flat-screen TV with 200-plus Dish Network channels, mini-refrigerator, iron and ironing board, individual climate control and Keurig coffee maker. The lodge also features the Stagecoach Dining Room, a historical museum, a gift shop, a fitness room, an indoor heated swimming pool, outdoor sun deck. A gas station and car wash, a grocery store and access to an excellent fleet of jeeps with tour guides.

Delve into the Rich History of Monument Valley at Goulding’s Museum in the Heart of the Southwest

Step into the past and immerse yourself in the stories, artifacts, and memorabilia that shaped this iconic destination. The museum is worth taking some time to view on the property for a small fee.

Goulding’s Museum features a diverse collection of exhibits that chronicle the captivating history of Monument Valley. Here you see the pioneering spirit of Harry and Mike Goulding, the couple who established the trading post that would later develop into Goulding’s Lodge. It is important to understand their interactions with the Navajo people, the influence of Hollywood filmmakers, and the lasting impact of their collaboration.

Experience the fascinating intersection of Monument Valley and the film industry. We learned about the iconic movies that were filmed in this mesmerizing landscape. Including collaborations between Harry Goulding and legendary director John Ford. It was fascinating to discover how Monument Valley became a beloved backdrop for countless Western films. Many left an indelible mark on cinematic history. Perusing the vintage John Wayne era memorabilia, movie posters and props added a touch of nostalgia to our museum experience. We spent an hour looking over the artifacts and the gift shop.

Starry Nights and Campfire Stories at Goulding’s Campground

Pitch your tent or park your RV in a picturesque setting surrounded by the breathtaking landscapes of Monument Valley. Wake up to the sight of towering rock formations, glowing mesas, and expansive desert views. The campground provides an unparalleled connection to the stunning natural beauty of the American Southwest.

Tucked into the red bluffs just five miles from the Monument Valley Tribal Park entrance, Goulding’s Campground offers a quiet, scenic place to unwind and soak in the landscape. The campground features pull-through sites with full hookups, though the spacing between sites is a bit tight. A complimentary shuttle runs to the restaurant and theater area, where guests can catch nightly John Wayne movies—adding a fun, classic Western touch to the experience.

Where to Dine in Mythical Monument Valley

Although Monument Valley has limited dining options, the surrounding area offers plenty of variety. You can choose fine dining with sweeping views or, alternatively, enjoy a simple meal with local flavors. Either way, you’ll find good options nearby while still taking in the stunning scenery of this remarkable place.

The View Restaurant: Savoring Culinary Delights amidst Monument Valley’s Breathtaking Beauty

The hotel has a restaurant serving delicious Navajo cuisine. When we arrived early for dinner at The View, we didn’t need a reservation. However, because we had one, we were seated immediately. Our table sat by the wall of windows, offering expansive views of the valley. In addition, The View serves a full menu of Navajo-inspired dishes and classic American cuisine, all crafted by Navajo chefs.

The menu blends sophisticated Le Cordon Bleu training with the Navajo cooking traditions learned at their grandmothers’ wood stoves. Our server was very helpful and offered suggestions to guide our choices. We began with a sampler plate of Navajo dishes, including the famous green chili stew, sheep camp mutton stew, red chile pork posole, and Navajo fry bread. The fry bread was especially delicious with honey and powdered sugar.

Delight in Delectable Navajo Cuisine: A Culinary Journey into Native Flavors

It was wonderful to experience authentic Navajo cuisine. The “world-famous” green chili stew was excellent—more like a flavorful soup than a stew, but healthy and delicious. The mutton stew reminded us of Barry’s grandmother’s cooking. While simple, it’s classic comfort food. We enjoyed all the dishes. We also shared the Navajo taco, which was perfect for two. The sampler plate comes with four mini tacos on small Navajo fry bread, topped with fresh vegetables and mild green chili. Keep in mind that the Navajo Nation is a dry nation, so beer and wine are not permitted. The service was friendly, courteous, and very efficient.

The breakfast buffet is very good. We had the buffet at some other places in the national parks, and were expensive, and they burned the bacon. But not here. It was excellent food. You can start your day with a breakfast buffet that offers a hearty selection of eggs, potatoes, biscuits and gravy, bacon, sausage, pancakes, fruits, muffins, yogurt, cereals, and juice. We asked to go back for yogurt for the road, and the server gave it to us no problem. Our experience here was wonderful!!

Things to do in Monument Valley: Exploring the Majestic Tribal Park Loop

The entrance fee to the park is $5. You can self-drive the 17-mile tribal road as a loop. The loop is a one-way road, and there are multiple viewpoints where you can stop, take photos, and marvel at the natural wonders.

I recommend using a heavy-duty vehicle, preferably 4-wheel drive. The road is unimproved, often has a washboard surface, and can be very dusty in the dry season. The cost is $20 per vehicle. Alternatively, consider taking a guided tour with a Navajo guide to gain deeper insights into the park’s history, culture, and geology. Many of the landmarks are accessible only with a guide.

One-day itinerary in Monument Valley? Tour with Navajo Spirit Tours.

We did the Monument Valley Tour with Navajo Spirit Tours. It was the absolute highlight of our time in Monument Valley. They guided us on an amazing private jeep tour through the stunning red-spired formations of Monument Valley. The day was really special, the way it combined being immersed in the stunning and somehow humbling landscape of Monument Valley. What made our experience unique was the way Navajo Spirit tours weaves the ways and understanding of the native people. You will gain insight into the Navajo people’s culture and history.

This morning, we met our local guide, Larson Homer of Navajo Spirit Tours, and began our journey into the park. We took the Monument Valley Tour is about 2.5-3.0 hours long. The Valley View Road is a 17-mile loop that showcases the mesas, buttes, and tower formations. The silence and exceptional photography opportunities are unforgettable.

These tours will take you into the heart of the valley. Be sure to have a refillable water bottle to quench your thirst in the heat. In the summer, the hot, dry air can take its toll if you don’t hydrate.

Stop #1: A Photographer’s Paradise Capturing the East and West Mitten Buttes

Our first stop is the East and West Mitten Buttes, which look like hands with their thumbs facing each other. These buttes are among the most recognizable features of Monument Valley. Standing tall and proud, they immediately command attention with their imposing formations and sheer size. Indeed, the mittens are far larger—and far more majestic—in person than they appear in photographs. As we photographed the East and West Mitten Buttes, we were careful to balance our enjoyment of their beauty with the need to preserve the integrity of this remarkable site.

These buttes have flat tops, steep vertical sides, and their height above ground is greater than their width. The East Mitten stands 6,226 feet, while the West Mitten rises 6,176 feet. Capturing these colossal mittens in photographs provides a sense of scale and grandeur.

Stop #2: Embracing the Splendor of Merrick Butte and Mitchell Mesa: A Visual Feast in Monument Valley

As we continued our exploration of Monument Valley, the next stop on our journey was the breathtaking Merrick Butte and Mitchell Mesa. According to legend, in 1879, they repeatedly warned the two men to keep out of the Monument Valley area, where Chief Hoskininni had a rich silver mine. The story has it they were both shot by irate Utes the next year, at their campfire at the butte now called Mitchell. They killed Mitchell immediately, but Merrick lived to reach another butte three miles away where he died; Merrick Butte. They have never found the silver mine. We marvelled at the towering spires, sweeping mesas, and intricate formations that nature has sculpted over millions of years.

Stop #3: Discovering the Magnificence of Elephant Butte: A Towering Natural Marvel

The next stop along the unimproved dirt road is Elephant Butte. The magnificent rock formation resembles an elephant silhouette, providing visitors with a feeling of awe and wonder. As we approached Elephant Butte, the sheer size and remarkable forces of nature that have shaped it over millions of years struck us with awe. This butte rises over 1000 feet from the valley floor.

Elephant Butte’s distinctive shape immediately evokes images of a majestic elephant, its trunk raised regally. It took little imagination for us to see its long trunk frozen in red sandstone. The rock is very much in the shape of an elephant. The guide told us it is best photographed at dusk.

Stop #4: A Trifecta of Beauty at the Amazing Three Sisters

Standing side by side, the Three Sisters rise over 1,000 feet. They stand united in the vast desert, creating a sense of symmetry and harmony. Consequently, the formation makes a visually striking scene. The naturally eroded rocks are said to resemble a Mother Superior, a Sister, and a tiny novice with a veil moving toward the cathedral. Alternatively, Navajo tradition tells of a mother walking with her daughter, guided by an uncle with a cane.

Stop #5: Historic John Ford’s Point

Legend has it, when John Wayne first set eyes on Monument Valley, he said: “So this is where God put the West”. John Ford Point holds a significant place in the history of filmmaking, as it served as a backdrop for many classic Western movies. Films such as “Stagecoach” and “The Searchers,” directed by John Ford himself, showcased the rugged beauty of Monument Valley to the world. Standing at this historic point allows you to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of those legendary film sets.

Classics like “Stagecoach” and “How the West Was Won” were filmed at John Ford’s Point, and more recent movies such as Johnny Depp’s “The Lone Ranger” have also been shot on location here. Beyond its role in the film industry, this historic site holds significance as a meeting place for Navajo leaders and early explorers.

Exploring Monument Valley’s Filmmaking Legacy

On the rocky overlook, a Navajo man on horseback, wearing a bright red shirt, strikes a pose reminiscent of iconic silver screen images, prompting tourists to reach for their cameras. As we stand at John Ford Point, we can imagine the cameras rolling, capturing scenes that have become legendary in the annals of filmmaking.

Vendors here offer an opportunity to purchase authentic Navajo crafts – handmade jewelry, pottery, weavings, and paintings. By supporting these local artisans, visitors can contribute to the preservation of Navajo traditions and help sustain their way of life.

Stop #6: Camel Butte: A Unique Landmark in Monument Valley’s Panorama

It is a testament to the incredible power of nature’s artistry. Its distinctive shape, with its hump-like formation and elongated neck, immediately captures the imagination. I really did not see it. But that is what it resembles. It is at the intersection of the Valley Loop Road in front of Rain Mesa. This is the highest elevation point on the road in the park.

Remember to bring plenty of water, snacks, sunglasses, and sunscreen during your visit. Respect the park’s regulations and the Navajo Nation’s customs and traditions while exploring Monument Valley.

Stop #7: Discovering the Beauty of Rain Mesa and Thunderbird Mesa:

The tour made a stop so everyone could stretch and take photos. Here, we saw both Rain Mesa and Thunderbird Mesa. Rain Mesa, with its smooth, flowing contours, gives an elegant and serene impression. In contrast, Thunderbird Mesa features sharp edges and towering heights, adding grandeur and power to the landscape. We took time to admire the unique qualities of each formation.

You will also find the Pancake Rocks and the Sleeping Dragon at this location. As we approached the Sleeping Dragon Formation, a breathtaking sight greeted us–the outline of a dragon seemingly peacefully slumbering. Its elongated body and contoured features evoke a sense of mystery and mystique. The nose of the dragon is on the far left, then you see the head, narrowing through the neck, and rising to the body. Our guide Larson explained to us, helping us to envision the ancient myths and tales that have been woven around this mystical creature.

PRO TIP: The tribal park’s remaining geological formations are only visible during guided tours.

Stop #8: Beholding the Incredible Eye of the Sun: Monument Valley’s Iconic Rock Formation

We weren’t prepared for the awe-inspiring sight of the Eye of the Sun rock formation. This natural wonder strikingly resembles a giant eye gazing over the desert. It is a cave-like arch carved from DeChelly sandstone. Moreover, the Eye of the Sun holds deep spiritual significance in Navajo culture. According to Navajo beliefs, it represents the watchful eye of a higher power, an ever-present guardian watching over the land and its people.

Here you will find 700-year-old images of bighorn sheep in a niche below Eye of the Sun. Larson told us he had hiked these valleys since childhood, and it was obvious. He knew every inch and every detail of the amazing history of this land. This beautiful place came alive to us as we squeezed through cavern walls, climbed over sandstone mounts, and sat in a historic cave used by the Natives over 4000 yesterday ago. We learned about the significance of native plants and wildlife. We truly felt connected and privileged to have been immersed in the land and culture of the Navajo.

Stop #9: Immersing in the Enigmatic “Ear of the Wind”

The “Ear of the Wind” provides a fascinating acoustic phenomenon that must be heard to be believed. As the wind passes through the narrow gaps and channels of the formation, it produces a symphony of gentle whispers, murmurs, and ethereal sounds. It is a pothole natural arch eroded in red-stained sandstone. It is one of several natural arches on the tour. The red sandstone contrasts nicely with the dead tree, which frames the arch. The stories and myths that turn rocks into something a bit more than red stone make these rocks and vistas even more awe-inspiring.

Stop #10: Immersion in Navajo Culture: Experiencing an Authentic Navajo Hogan

The word Hogan (Hooghan) literally means “place home, ” combining the meaning of “home” and a “sense of place.” The Hogan is the traditional home of the Navajo people. This basic structure lacks electricity and running water. In addition, it provides shelter from the elements, such as whipping winds, summer heat, and winter cold.

There are two types of Hogans represented. The female Hogan has nine support poles to represent the nine months it takes for a woman to carry a child; has a rounded dome roof shape, the male Hogan has four support poles to represent the four points on the compass and is more conical shaped. Sweat Lodge, used for ceremonies and meditation, is next to both Hogan structures.

The circular Navajo Hogan, built with wooden logs and layered with mud or bark, showcases the ingenuity and craftsmanship of the Navajo people. Each Hogan’s distinctive design tells a captivating story.

Stop #11: Surrender to the Magic: The Big Hogan Flute Experience

We approached the last leg of our journey with a stop at the Big Hogan. It is a natural arch carved in the DeChelly sandstone. Big Hogan is a mystical place with incredible acoustics. It is impossible to truly prepare yourself for this truly enchanting encounter. We make the most of the isolation, leaning back against the rocks. The enchanting tunes resonate within the Hogan’s sacred walls, creating an atmosphere of tranquility and peace.

Larson plays the Native American flute beautifully (self-taught). Guided by his skilled hands and heartfelt expression, this is a healing ceremony. The total experience renewed us and redirected us. You can discover the relationship between the natural world and its spiritual presence and power to awaken us to wholeness. We let the soothing sounds carry us away. It left us with a deeper sense of harmony and connection to the remarkable landscape of Monument Valley.

Stop #12: Accepting the Spirit of “The Yei Bi Chei”

While totem poles are traditionally carved from wood by Northeastern clans, this 450-foot sandstone spire is a striking example of how natural erosion can sculpt rock formations. Over time, the relentless forces of wind and water have whittled away at the plateau’s surface, creating these stunning natural carvings that resemble a towering totem pole.

These iconic figures, deeply rooted in Navajo mythology and culture. They hold a significant place in the hearts of the Navajo people. “The Yei Bi Chei” represents supernatural beings in Navajo mythology. Visualize dancers emerging from a Hogan. These masked figures are intermediaries between the human and spirit realms, associated with Navajo healing, protection, and blessing ceremonies. By witnessing their presence, one connects with the clan’s profound spiritual traditions and ancient narratives.

Stop #13: Gazing Through the North Window:

As we neared the end of our expedition, we paused to marvel at the magnificent North Window. This natural rock formation resembles a colossal window. Its carved frame offers a breathtaking vantage point to take in the valley’s beauty. Through the North Window, we enjoyed unrivaled views of Elephant Butte. To the right stands Cly Butte, named after a renowned Navajo medicine man, whom the Navajo buried at its base and call “Left.” Nearby, the Thumb rises as a free-standing spire apart from Camel Butte. It also resembles a cowboy boot. The North Window served as a fitting reminder of Monument Valley’s remarkable beauty and enduring spirit, leaving us with memories to treasure forever.

Stop #14: Unveiling the Wonders: Stagecoach, Bear and Rabbit, and Castle Rock

Stagecoach, Bear and Rabbit, and Castle Rock – three formations at the center of Monument Valley. We could also see the Big Indian, Brigham’s Tomb and King on his throne from the valley floor.

The Stagecoach formation resembles an old-fashioned stagecoach, evoking images of the Wild West era. With its striking resemblance to a horse-drawn carriage, this rock formation transports you back in time, allowing you to imagine the pioneers and adventurers who once traversed this rugged landscape. The Bear and Rabbit formation is a testament to the playful imagination of the rocks. This remarkable resemblance of these formations to the beloved animals brought us a touch of whimsy.

Castle Rock stands tall and proud, resembling a majestic castle rising from the desert floor. Its imposing stature and rugged beauty make it a true highlight of Monument Valley..

Monument Valley travel guide Navajo Spirit Tours: A Journey of Cultural Connection and Reverence

As our unforgettable encounters with Navajo Spirit Tours ended, it was time to reflect upon the profound impact of this cultural experience. Larson Homer shared his personal history of his childhood, spending time with his grandma in her mud hogan. His sacred stories, legends, and ancestral wisdom passed down through generations. Hearing him play his pipe in the Big Hogan with its magical echoes was an inspirational experience.

In hearing these stories, you gain a deep appreciation for the oral traditions and cultural significance of Monument Valley. We haven’t even mentioned his incredible skill in navigating rocks and dunes, which made the experience unforgettable. Navajo Spirit Tours is worth every penny. Be sure to avoid the many guides in the Visitor Center parking lot and book Navajo Spirit Tours well in advance.

Final Thoughts on Spending a Magical Day in Amazing Monument Valley

Spending a day in Monument Valley lets you experience the breathtaking beauty of the American Southwest, immerse yourself in Navajo culture, and create lasting memories. Monument Valley is truly a special treat. In fact, it’s one of the most thought-provoking tours we’ve ever taken. That’s why I believe it’s the perfect Northern Arizona road trip destination. Adding the valley to a western parks itinerary is easy, thanks to its proximity to Colorado, Utah, and New Mexico.

Sadly, this was the end of our tour of Monument Valley. Today we had to change our plans because of a detour on Hwy 89A from a landslide. Luckily, the Cameron Hotel and Trading Post has a room available for the evening. Our drive is about 2.5 hrs. Next stop: Grand Canyon National Park-South Rim.

Have you been to Monument Valley? What was your experience? Share with us in the comments below. We would love to know about your journey.