Scenic Self-Drive Tour in Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park

Immerse yourself in the iconic landscapes of Monument Valley with a self-guided scenic drive, offering unparalleled views of the Southwest's natural wonders.

Last updated: Apr 2024

Visit Website

$8/person park entrance fee
500 Miles from you
National Star: Exceptional experiences within the country that are must-dos for adventurers
Learn more

Description

Immerse yourself in the iconic landscapes of Monument Valley with a self-guided scenic drive, offering unparalleled views of the Southwest's natural wonders. Begin your journey with a self-guided scenic drive through Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park, where the majestic rock formations and vast, sandy landscapes have captured the hearts of travelers and filmmakers alike. This iconic drive allows you to explore at your own pace, starting with the awe-inspiring Mitten Buttes and Merrick Butte, which stand as sentinels at the park's entrance. As you wind along the 17-mile loop road, each turn reveals a new marvel, from the towering spires of the Three Sisters to the ancient, weathered formations of John Ford's Point. The drive is dotted with 11 designated stops, each offering a unique vantage point to appreciate the valley's grandeur and to capture the perfect photograph.

Perfect for

For solo

For two

For groups

For parents and grownups

Outdoorsy

TikTok videos

Itinerary

Arrive early to catch the sunrise.
Start at the Visitor Center to pick up a map.
Follow the loop road, stopping at designated viewpoints.
Take your time at each stop to enjoy the views and take photos.
Complete the loop and return to the Visitor Center.

Location

Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park, AZ 84536

Show directions

Packing List

Comfortable driving shoes
Water and snacks
Sunscreen and hats for sun protection
Camera or smartphone for photos
Binoculars for distant views

4.7 ● Google reviews

Venturing into Monument Valley, Arizona, was a pilgrimage to a realm where time itself seemed to stand still. Our journey through this iconic landscape was a symphony of silence, punctuated only by the gentle hum of our car as we navigated the winding roads through towering sandstone monoliths. The scorching desert heat cast a surreal glow over the ancient rock formations, bathing them in hues of red, orange, and gold that seemed to dance in the sunlight. As we ventured deeper into the valley, the towering buttes and mesas loomed like silent sentinels, their weathered faces bearing the scars of countless centuries of erosion. Each turn revealed a new vista more breathtaking than the last. The iconic Mittens and Merrick Butte rose majestically from the valley floor, their towering silhouettes etched against the azure sky. The vast expanse of the valley stretched out before us, a tapestry of sand and stone that seemed to stretch on to infinity. Exploring Monument Valley was like stepping into a living postcard, where every view was a work of art crafted by the hand of nature itself. The silence of the desert was broken only by the soft rustle of the wind as it whispered through the canyons, carrying with it the echoes of ancient legends and timeless stories. As we bid farewell to this sacred land, we carried with us memories that would last a lifetime. Monument Valley is more than just a destination; it's a sanctuary for the soul, a place where the beauty of the natural world reminds us of the majesty and wonder of our planet.

Breathtaking. 17 mile drive thru canyon. Lots of viewing and pull off areas. Well worth your time. Make sure you have at least a full 4 to 5 hours to visit. We went late and had to go back to visit visitor center.

The buttes and mesas in this park look amazing. You can only go to the parking lot/gift shop and take photos there or do the 17 mile loop drive through the park. Paid tours seemed to also be available. The road through the park is unpaved and very rough in spots. I think it would be manageable by most cars, except very low-riders. I got momentarily stuck in my Kia on the hill heading towards the exit.

The sheer majesty and magic of this hallowed ground is truly awe inspiring. To say it is breathtaking feels cheap and small. I'm not superstitious or even that spiritual, but you truly feel the great, slow, ancient, and mighty power that lives deep within this land. The vistas are mind blowing, the views are indescribably beautiful. It is absolutely worth every penny because the experience will stay with you forever. I am truly blessed to have been able to see Monument Valley, and I know you will be too.

Images of Monument Valley have been with me since childhood viewing of John Ford movies. It did not disappoint. Tours with Navajo guides enhance and enlighten the experience.

Show all 3426 reviews