🤠 Guide to Visiting Monument Valley | + Map and Tips |

Where is Monument Valley

Monument Valley is located on the border between the states of Utah and Arizona, within the Navajo Nation. Although it is true that the main part of the park—the section that all travelers visit—is entirely within Arizona, the park is much larger and spans part of both states.

The tourist entrance to Monument Valley Tribal Park is located in Arizona, but you'll have to drive through Utah to get there, since the turnoff is in that state. 📷 This way, you can take a photo with the “Welcome to Utah” signs—they’re really cool at this border!

Here are the approximate driving distances from some nearby locations:

• Kayenta: 42 km or 26 mi (30 min)
• Page: 200 km or 124 mi (2 hrs)
• Grand Canyon East Entrance: 251 km or 156 mi (2.5 hrs)
• Grand Canyon South Entrance: 291 km or 180 mi (3 hrs)
• Moab: 240 km or 149 mi (2 hrs 40 min)
• Flagstaff: 283 km or 176 mi (2 hrs 50 min)
• Sedona: 335 km or 208 mi (3.5 hrs)
• Phoenix: 515 km or 320 mi (5 hrs)
• Las Vegas: 645 km or 400 mi (6 hrs 20 min)

⚠️ VERY IMPORTANT ➡️ In Monument Valley (including the part located in Arizona) is within the same time zone than Utah. Since Arizona doesn’t observe daylight saving time, but Utah does, depending on when you travel to the U.S. Southwest there will be a time difference between the two states.

🕐 From the second Sunday in March through the first Sunday in November: Utah is one hour ahead of Arizona. For example, if it's 10 a.m. in Page, it's 11 a.m. in Monument Valley. The rest of the year, they're on the same time.

This affects you if you have a Monument Valley tour booked for a specific time, if you want to see the sunrise or sunset in Monument Valley, etc. If you're traveling to Monument Valley from somewhere in Utah, you don't have to worry, but if you're coming from Arizona (for example, Page), you'll need to factor in the time difference.

What is Monument Valley

Monument Valley is probably one of the most iconic landscapes of the American Southwest, a place that evokes Western movies with its enormous red sandstone formations rising above a desert plain. For us, it’s without a doubt one of the most breathtaking places in the United States, which is why we’ve been here several times.

Monument Valley is the result of a natural process that has taken millions of years and involves sedimentation, uplift, and erosion. Millions of years ago, this entire area was covered by sediments that gradually accumulated and compacted, until the uplift of the Colorado Plateau raised the entire region and exposed it to erosion by rain, wind, and ice.

The formations we see today are the most resistant layers of rock, which have managed to remain standing and withstand erosion for a longer period of time (the process continues naturally, even though it is imperceptible to us). In fact, in Monument Valley, you can see different types of rock formations that correspond to various stages of erosion:

• Mesa: Spanish word for table. It's the first stage of erosion, resulting in a rock formation that resembles a table because it is broad and stable. Rain God Mesa, Mitchell Mesa, Spearhead Mesa, and Thunderbird Mesa are some examples.
• Butte: a second stage of erosion, resulting in a smaller rock formation. West & East Mitten Buttes, Merrick Butte, Elephant Butte, Camel Butte, and Cly Butte are some examples.
• Spire: the final stage of erosion, resulting in a narrow, freestanding formation. Once it has been completely eroded away, only the bottom organ rock that holds up the sandstone will remain. Totem Pole and the Three Sisters are some examples.

Is Monument Valley a national park?

Although Monument Valley is often referred to as if it were a national park, it is not. In fact, its full name is Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park, so it is a tribal park managed by the Navajo Nation and is not part of the NPS.

This is important because the visiting rules and admission procedures are different from those at national parks. In addition, there are certain areas that can only be visited with a Navajo guide, as this place is of great cultural and spiritual significance to them (and also a major source of income).

Monument Valley and the Movies

The fact that Monument Valley is one of the most iconic landscapes of the American West is largely due to the movies, as its iconic sandstone spires became the setting for many classic Westerns.

John Ford is undoubtedly the director most closely associated with Monument Valley, having filmed several movies here starring John Wayne. In fact, there’s even a lookout point named after him! Stagecoach (1939), My Darling Clementine (1946), Fort Apache (1948), She Wore a Yellow Ribbon (1949), The Searchers (1956), and Cheyenne Autumn (1964) are just a few examples of his films.

Monument Valley has also appeared in other types of media. Probably the most popular film is Forrest Gump (1994), in which Tom Hanks immortalized an iconic moment by stopping to run on a highway with the monoliths of Monument Valley in the background—a spot that is now one of the most visited in the area. Other examples include Easy Rider (1969), Thelma & Louise*(1991), Back to the Future III (1990), Mission: Impossible 2 (2000), and Transformers: Age of Extinction (2014), though there are many more.

What is the closest airport to Monument Valley

The closest airports to Monument Valley are Cortez Municipal Airport (193 km or 120 mi, 2 hrs) and Page Municipal Airport (196 km or 122 mi, 2 hrs), but both are very small and offer very few flights.

With more connections available, the nearest airports are Flagstaff Pulliam Airport (283 km or 175 mi, 3 hrs), followed by Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (511 km or 317 mi, 5 hrs), and Salt Lake City International Airport (618 km or 384 mi, 6 hrs 30 min).

However, it’s common to include Monument Valley as part of a U.S. Southwest road trip, so you’ll most likely fly into an airport farther away (such as San Francisco, Los Angeles, or Las Vegas) and make this a stop on your itinerary.

How much is the admission fee to Monument Valley

Admission to Monument Valley costs $10 per person for all ages. Additionally, starting in 2026, if you want to drive your own vehicle on the Scenic Drive, you’ll have to pay an additional $15 per vehicle. Keep in mind that the ticket is valid only for that day, so if you want to re-enter the next day, you’ll have to pay again.

This fee is paid at the toll booth located on the access road to Monument Valley (Route 42), and only card payments are accepted. We therefore recommend reading our article on the best cards for traveling to the United States to avoid currency conversion fees.

💡 The America the Beautiful National Parks Annual Pass is not valid at Monument Valley.

What are Monument Valley's opening hours

Monument Valley is open every day of the week and every day of the year, except for the Navajo Nation's major holidays (Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day).

Here, you need to keep in mind the opening hours of 3 points:

• Toll booth: located on Highway N42, 1 km or 0.6 mi before the parking area. This is where you pay the entrance fee.
• Visitor Center: an information center where you'll find exhibits and a gift shop.
• Scenic Drive: a scenic route with viewpoints that you can explore on your own or as part of a tour.

Here are all the opening hours for Monument Valley, although it's a good idea to check them on their website beforehand, since the park itself notes that they are subject to change:

• March and April:
  • Toll booth: 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
  • Visitor Center: 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
  • Scenic Drive: 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Last entry at 3:30 p.m.
• May through September:
  • Toll booth: 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
  • Visitor Center: 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
  • Scenic Drive: 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Last entry at 4:30 p.m.
• October through February:
  • Toll booth: 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
  • Visitor Center: 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m
  • Scenic Drive: 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Last entry at 2:30 p.m.

💡Please note that even if the toll booth is closed, the gate is always open to allow guests staying overnight to come and go as they please. If you enter outside of business hours, you won't be able to pay at the toll booth, but you'll need to pay at the Visitor Center once it opens.

Monument Valley on your own or on a tour?

One of the main questions you may have when planning your visit to Monument Valley is whether you should book a tour or explore on your own. The answer depends on the type of vehicle you have, the part of Monument Valley you want to explore, how much time you have, and whether you’d like to delve a little deeper into the culture and history of the Navajo Nation.

We'll explain each option so you can decide for yourself which one you prefer:

Monument Valley on your own

Exploring Monument Valley on your own is the best option if you want to take the tour at your own pace and spend as much time as you like at each viewpoint. The self-guided tour is limited to driving along Scenic Drive, a 27 km or 15 mi unpaved dirt road that passes by a total of 11 viewpoints.

Although this road isn't paved, it doesn't present any difficulties, except for the beginning, which is a fairly steep descent with a few potholes. The first time we drove it, we did so in a Mustang convertible with no problems, but when we returned years later, we noticed that this first section had deteriorated, and we found that a car with a slightly higher ground clearance is much safer to avoid scraping the undercarriage.

For the rest of the route, we believe any vehicle can handle it without any problems, since there are no elevation changes and the terrain is hard and compacted. In any case, it’s a good idea to check whether your rental car in the United States is permitted to drive on this type of road; otherwise, if something were to happen to the vehicle, your insurance wouldn’t cover it.

⚠️ It’s also important to keep in mind that June through August is the monsoon season, so during these months there is a risk of flash floods, and road conditions may deteriorate. The Visitor Center will provide information on any alerts and current road conditions.

As we mentioned in the section on admission fees, starting in 2026, a fee of $15 per vehicle is required for independent access to the Scenic Drive.

Monument Valley on an organized tour

Visiting Monument Valley on an organized tour is sometimes a choice and other times a necessity. It’s a choice if you don’t want to drive on the unpaved road or if you’d like to learn more about the culture and history of the Navajo Nation, since the guide provides explanations as they stop at various overlooks. Many tours also include indigenous dances and songs in areas of the valley that are sacred to them.

The tours are conducted in open-top 4x4 vehicles (in winter, some companies use enclosed vehicles), equipped with seats in the back and a roof that provides shade. Since they're open on the sides, you can enjoy panoramic views throughout the entire trip (though you'll also breathe in a bit of dust).

There are various situations that make booking a tour absolutely essential:

1. If you're going to Monument Valley by RV, motorcycle, or bike, access to the Scenic Drive is prohibited. We went there in a 6.3-meter (20.6 feet) campervan and didn’t have any issues, but we’ve seen on the website that campers are prohibited. We’re not sure if it depends on the person at the checkpoint or if it’s a new restriction. Leave us a comment if you have any updates on this!
2. If you want to access the Scenic Drive after the last entry time. It varies by season—we provide details in the section on Monument Valley's opening hours.
3. If you want to visit areas outside the Scenic Drive. Here are some examples:
   • Monument Valley Backcountry (or Restricted Area): in the southern part, there are arches, windows, petroglyphs, natural amphitheaters, and archaeological ruins, such as the famous Big Hogan, Moccasin Arch, Sun’s Eye, and Ear of the Wind. To the east lies Mystery Valley, with arches, ruins, and petroglyphs. Many tours combine the Scenic Drive with part of the Backcountry.
   • Hunts Mesa: this mesa offers incredible panoramic views of Monument Valley—probably among the most beautiful—but getting there is a 4x4 adventure like few others, lasting 4 hours (round trip). We haven’t been there ourselves, but we know from friends that the slope is so steep in some parts of the road that it feels like the car is standing upright.
   • Teardrop Arch: this rock formation, featuring a vertical crevice, is located in the Goulding area and is one of the least-visited sites.

You can book a Monument Valley guided tour in advance or once you’re there, although we’ve found that the price is exactly the same. In the parking lot area, there’s a blue booth where you can book a tour; we stopped by to check it out so we could give you all the details. 😉

They told us there were more than 30 local agencies and urged us to choose the private tour option (which is more expensive than shared tours). The prices they quoted ranged from $110 per person for a 1.5-hour tour to $280 for a 6-hour tour.

Something else that caught our attention is that if you want to pay for the tour with a card, there is an 8% fee, which makes it a bit more expensive if you don't have cash on hand.

Best Monument Valley tours: Quick Comparison

If you've already decided you want to take a tour of Monument Valley—or are just thinking about it—you should know that there are different types of tours. The main differences between them are the duration, the time of day they take place, the area of the valley they visit, and the mode of transportation.

In this comparison table, we provide a summary of the best Monument Valley tours, all of which are operated by local companies from the Navajo Nation. We’ve selected the best tour for each type, taking into account what’s included, the duration, the price, and the cancellation policy.

BEST TOURS OF MONUMENT VALLEY
	Where to book	Duration	Starting Price	Is admission included?	Free cancellation
Monument Valley tour (only Scenic Drive)	Here (select the 2.5-hour option)	2.5 hrs	$76 for adults and $49 for children	No	Up to 3 days in advance
Monument Valley + Backcountry	Here	2.5 hrs	$70 for adults and $45 for children	No	Up to 24 hrs in advance
Monument Valley + Backcountry (longer option)	Here	3.5 hrs	$85 for adults and $55 for children	No	Up to 24 hrs in advance
Monument Valley Sunrise Tour	Here	3 hrs	$92 for adults and $57 for children	No	Up to 24 hrs in advance
Monument Valley Sunset Tour	Here	3 hrs	$80 for adults and $57 for children	No	Up to 24 hrs in advance
Monument Valley Horseback Riding Tour	Here	30 min to 1 hour	$74 for 30 min and $100 for 60 min	No	Up to 24 hrs in advance
Monument Valley + Mystery Valley Tour	Here	7 hrs	$150 for adults and $80 for children	No	Up to 24 hrs in advance
Mystery Valley Tour	Here	2.5 hrs	$82 for adults and $55 for children	No	Up to 3 days in advance

Things to do in Monument Valley (and Best Viewpoints)

Visitor Center and The View Restaurant

Next to the parking lot stands the Visitor Center, which features several exhibits on the history and culture of the Navajo Nation, as well as serving as the park’s information center and gift shop. Here you can buy not only souvenirs from Monument Valley, but also Navajo crafts.

From the terrace of the Visitor Center itself—without even having to drive along the Scenic Drive— you’ll already have one of Monument Valley’s most iconic views right in front of you: West Mitten Butte and East Mitten Butte (known as The Mittens) with Merrick Butte in the center. The Mittens are very distinctive because they’re shaped like hands, which is why they’re so important spiritually to the Navajo people—they believe the Mittens are the guardians of the valley.

Is this view from the Visitor Center enough? There are people who, whether because they don’t dare to take the Scenic Drive due to the type of vehicle they have or because they don’t want to book an organized tour, are happy with just this view. We think that’s a mistake because, although it’s one of the most impressive views of Monument Valley, the valley has so much more to offer, and you’ll miss out on other incredible sights.

Next to the Visitor Center is The View Restaurant, a restaurant that likely boasts one of the most breathtaking views in the world. They serve traditional and Mexican cuisine here, although the quality isn’t the best. It’s open to everyone and features a spectacular panoramic terrace. You can always order a coffee and enjoy the views! ☕

Monument Valley Scenic Drive

As we’ve already mentioned, the Scenic Drive is a 27-km (15 mi) dirt road that you can explore on your own and that features a total of 11 overlooks. It begins just past the Visitor Center parking lot, and the first few miles are two-way until you reach Lookout 5 (Camel Butte), where it becomes a one-way loop that skirts Rain God Mesa. The speed limit is 15 mph (24 km/h).

Here are the 11 viewpoints in Monument Valley, with a brief summary of each one and our personal rating:

1. East & West Mitten Buttes ⭐⭐⭐: closer views of The Mittens.
2. Elephant Butte ⭐: a monolith that resembles an elephant, depending on the angle from which you view it.
3. The Three Sisters ⭐⭐: an intriguing rock formation that is said to depict a nun facing her two pupils.
4. John Ford's Point ⭐⭐⭐: a stunning overlook named after the famous film director. Sometimes a Navajo man on horseback poses for photos here. There's also a place that serves traditional Navajo fried bread and coffee—Linda's Fry Bread.
5. Camel Butte ⭐: a monolith resembling a camel.
6. The Hub ⭐: symbolizes the hub of a wagon wheel. The Navajo people see it as a hearth located in the center of a gigantic hogan (a traditional Navajo dwelling).
7. Bird Spring ⭐: a lookout overlooking an area of sand dunes. At the bottom of the eastern section lies Sand Springs, a natural aquifer that springs from beneath the sand dune.
8. Totem Pole ⭐⭐: this sandstone spire is named after the wooden poles carved by Native American tribes. Next to the spire are the Yei Bi Chei, which symbolize gods emerging from a hogan.
9. Code Talker Point (or Artist Point) ⭐⭐⭐: a spectacular viewpoint offering a sweeping view of Monument Valley from a different perspective. To get there, you have to take a short detour from the main loop.
10. North Window ⭐⭐⭐: a viewpoint overlooking the northern part of the valley, with Elephant Butte on the left and Cly Butte on the right.
11. The Thumb ⭐⭐: this spire stands apart from Camel Butte and resembles a raised thumb.

Hikes in Monument Valley: Wildcat Trail

The only self-guided hiking trail you can take in Monument Valley is the Wildcat Trail, a 6.1-km (3.8 mi) loop that circles the iconic West Mitten Butte. The trail begins at the start of Scenic Drive, next to The View Campground, and descends to the bottom of the valley, allowing you to get a closer look at the massive rock formations.

The best part about this option is that it's a very intimate way to explore Monument Valley, since few people venture out to do it. That said, there's no shade along the route, so in addition to bringing plenty of water and snacks, we recommend avoiding the hottest part of the day.

Monument Valley Backcountry

As we mentioned earlier in the section on Monument Valley with an organized tour, there are other areas in the valley that are part of the Backcountry or Restricted Area and can only be visited with a guide. Among them are the southern part, which features some famous rock formations, Mystery Valley, and the spectacular Hunts Mesa.

Hotels in Monument Valley

Although we go into more detail on this topic in our post on where to stay in Monument Valley, here's a brief summary of the options available both inside and outside the park:

Hotels within Monument Valley

• The View Hotel: located next to the restaurant and the Visitor Center. It is a three-story concrete hotel with rooms offering views of either the rock formations or the parking lot. The cost is quite high and it’s hard to find availability, so we think it’s only worth it if you want a room with a view of the rock formations. Reviews highlight the staff’s lack of friendliness.
• The View Cabins: wooden cabins located across from the parking lot. All of them offer views of Monument Valley, but they are a more expensive option than the hotel.
• The View Campground: camping for RVs, campers, and tents.

Hotels near Monument Valley

• Goulding's Lodge: our favorite option in Monument Valley. It's 8 km or 5 mi (10 min) from the entrance, is a place steeped in history, and also offers views of the rock formations. It has a restaurant next door, a gas station, and a pool. It's not cheap, but it's not as expensive as the others. ➡️ Book it here.
• Hampton Inn Kayenta: located in Kayenta, 43 km or 27 mi south of Monument Valley (30 min). It features spacious rooms, a pool, breakfast included in the price, and a restaurant. ➡️ Book it here.
• Mexican Hat Lodge: located in Mexican Hat, a small community 38 km or 24 mi north of Monument Valley (25 min). It’s right next to several tourist attractions near Monument Valley, and although it may be a bit dated, it’s a pretty unique place. ➡️ Book it here.
• Hat Rock Inn: also located in Mexican Hat, it is a slightly more expensive option than the previous one due to its location next to the San Juan River and its pool with views. ➡️ Book it here.
• Willow Street Cottages: located in the picturesque town of Bluff, 77 km or 48 mi north of Monument Valley (50 min). You can't go wrong with these beautiful, modern, and spacious cabins, thoughtfully designed with everything you could possibly need. ➡️ Book it here.

Things to do around Monument Valley

Outside of Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park, there are many other places worth visiting. Some are very close by, and others are a little farther away, so here’s a summary table of our favorites to help you choose, and then we’ll tell you more about each one in detail:

PLACES TO VISIT NEAR MONUMENT VALLEY
	DISTANCE TO MONUMENT VALLEY	APPROXIMATE VISIT DURATION	PRICE
Goulding's Museum	8 km or 5 mi (8 min)	30-40 min	Free (donations accepted)
Forrest Gump Point	27 km or 17 mi (20 min)	10-20 min	Free
Mexican Hat Rock	43 km or 27 mi (30 min)	10 min	Free
Goosenecks State Park	53 km or 33 mi (40 min)	45 min - 1 hr	$5 per vehicle
Valley of Gods	53 km or 33 mi to the start of the road (40 min)	4 hrs	Free
Navajo National Monument	90 km or 56 mi (1 hr)	2 hrs	Free
Natural Bridges National Monument	105 km or 65 mi (1.5 hrs)	3 hrs	$20 per vehicle (included with the annual park pass)
Canyon de Chelly	156 km or 97 mi (1 hr 40 min)	4 hrs	Free
Page	200 km or 124 mi (2 hrs)	1–2 days	It depends on the tourist attraction

Goulding's Museum

Located next to Monument Valley, in the same complex as Goulding’s Lodge, is this museum founded by the Goulding family, which tells the story of the Hollywood arrival in the area. Here you’ll find photographs, artifacts, and exhibits that explain the early years following the Gouldings’ arrival in the area, their role as a trading post, their relationship with the Navajo people, and how the filming of Western movies began.

Next door is the Earth Spirit Theater, where educational documentaries about the valley are screened every afternoon starting at 6:00 p.m., followed by a John Wayne classic. Anyone can attend, so you don’t have to be a guest at the lodge. Also worth visiting is John Wayne’s Cabin, a stone house that appeared in several movies.

Forrest Gump Point

We're sure you'll want to take a photo of yourself at the spot where Forrest Gump stopped running in the famous 1994 movie. After running for 3 years, 2 months, 14 days, and 16 hours, Forrest decided to stop right where a straight road seems to lead into the rock formations of Monument Valley. With such beauty all around, we would have done the same if we were in his shoes. 😉

Forrest Gump Point is located on US-163, in Utah, 21 km (13 mi) from the state line. Although there’s room to park on the side of the road, it’s true that this is a somewhat dangerous spot, since everyone wants to take a photo right in the middle of the road (whether running, sitting, lying down, jumping...) while cars continue to drive by. Don’t risk your life for a photo!

Mexican Hat Rock

Mexican Hat is a small town located just a few miles from Forrest Gump Point and is known for a rock formation called Mexican Hat Rock. This large sandstone rock features what looks like a Mexican hat perched on a narrow base at its top—all the result of erosion.

Since it's very close to the road, it's a quick and interesting stop. Mexican Hat is also a good place to stop to fill up on gas, grab a bite to eat, or even spend the night near Monument Valley—for example, at the Mexican Hat Lodge or the Hat Rock Inn.

Goosenecks State Park

Given its proximity to the two previous stops, we think adding Goosenecks State Park to your itinerary is a great idea. Here, the San Juan River has spent millions of years carving out enormous meanders with sharp curves, making it look like a snake from the air. In a way, it resembles Horseshoe Bend, although here you can see three meanders in a row at a single glance.

The tour involves stopping at various overlooks, and you can even hike down a short distance into the canyon, although the terrain is steep and somewhat slippery.

Valley of Gods

Valley of Gods is a great alternative for those looking for scenery similar to that of Monument Valley but with only a fraction of the visitors. Here, you’ll also find red sandstone formations, which you can explore by driving along its loop (suitable for any vehicle) with much more freedom than Monument Valley allows. You can even camp for free!

Natural Bridges National Monument

This National Monument is another of southern Utah’s hidden gems, located just over an hour from Monument Valley. Here you’ll find some of the most impressive natural arches in the southwestern United States, which have been sculpted over time by the flow of water.

There are three main natural bridges here, each with unique characteristics that set them apart from one another, but we'll tell you all about them in our guide to visiting Natural Bridges National Monument (coming soon).

Navajo National Monument

If you'd like to learn more about the ancestral people who lived in the Southwest of the United States, here you can see ancient settlements built by the Puebloan with your own eyes. They built their homes in cavities carved into the sandstone cliffs, and the ruins of three villages remain today.

There are three trails you can hike on your own that lead to different scenic overlooks, although only the Sandal Trail (2 km or 1.2 mi) offers a view of the dwellings from a distance.

Canyon de Chelly

Canyon de Chelly, located a little over 1.5 hours from Monument Valley, is another natural wonder in Arizona that belongs to the Navajo Nation. This impressive canyon, with walls reaching depths of up to 300 meters (984 ft), is still home to dwellings and communities living at the bottom. In addition, there are incredible rock formations, such as the photogenic Spider Rock, and dwellings built into cavities in the sandstone cliffs.

The tour involves stopping at the various overlooks on both rims of the canyon, although if you want to go to the bottom, you must do so as part of a guided tour.

Page

We're sure Page will be a stop on your USA Southwest itinerary. Just outside this small town are some of the most impressive natural wonders of the American West, such as Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon.

Although these are the two main attractions in the area and the ones that get all the attention, there are many other places to see in Page—so many that you could spend 2 or 3 days there and still be discovering new spots!

How much time is needed to visit Monument Valley

Based on our experience, we recommend spending at least 3 to 4 hours in Monument Valley, including the viewpoints at the Visitor Center and the Scenic Drive. The last time we were there, we spent 7 hours exploring on our own (including a stop for lunch), and honestly, we enjoyed a lot. We love this place and didn’t want to leave!

When is the best time to visit Monument Valley

Although you can go at any time of year, in our opinion, spring and fall are the best times to visit Monument Valley. During these months, the temperatures are more pleasant, which will allow you to better enjoy the area, its viewpoints, and its tours.

🌸 Monument Valley in Spring

Temperatures in Monument Valley during the spring—especially in April and May—are pleasant during the day and somewhat cool at night, allowing you to enjoy outdoor activities without any problems and sleep comfortably. The days also start to get longer, with more hours of daylight, making it the ideal season for stargazing at night.

The downside of this time of year is that the days tend to be quite windy, with April being the windiest month of the year. We can confirm that this is absolutely true, since the last time we were there was during this month.

☀️ Monument Valley in Summer

Summer is the hottest season, with high temperatures that can reach 35°C or 95ºF. Ideally, especially in July and August, you should visit during the early morning or late afternoon, taking advantage of the very long days.

During the summer, especially from July to August, it is monsoon season in the American Southwest, which can bring thunderstorms and heavy rain (which usually occur in the afternoons). This can cause road conditions on the Scenic Drive to deteriorate and increase the risk of flash floods.

🍂 Monument Valley in Fall

Fall is probably our favorite season, since you get to enjoy pleasant temperatures during the day and cool nights starting in late September; the days are still long enough, and you don't have to deal with the wind that's a problem in the spring.

It's also an ideal time to see the fabulous starry sky over Monument Valley, since the skies tend to stay clear all day long.

❄️ Monument Valley in Winter

Winter is the season with the fewest tourists in Monument Valley, but from a photographic standpoint, it's one of the most striking—when it snows, the white contrasts with the red of the sandstone, creating spectacular images.

The days are cool, with maximum temperatures around 6°C or 43ºF, and at night the temperature is freezing. On the other hand, daylight hours are short, so you can’t make the most of the day, and road conditions may be affected by the weather.

Monument Valley at sunrise and sunset

Sunrise and sunset are among the best times of day to enjoy Monument Valley, mainly because of the play of light and the colors the rock formations take on as the sun rises and sets.

In this table, we've listed the exact times of sunrise and sunset in Monument Valley throughout the year, so you can plan your visit. Remember that on the second Sunday in March, the clocks are set forward 1 hour, and on the first Sunday in November, they are set back 1 hour, which is why there are changes on those dates:

SUNRISE AND SUNSET TIMES IN MONUMENT VALLEY
DATE	SUNRISE	SUNSET
January 1	7:34 a.m.	5:14 p.m.
January 15	7:33 a.m.	5:27 p.m.
February 1	7:23 a.m.	5:45 p.m.
February 15	7:09 a.m.	6:00 p.m.
March 1	6:51 a.m.	6:15 p.m.
March 15*	7:31 a.m.	7:28 p.m.
April 1	7:06 a.m.	7:43 p.m.
April 15	6:46 a.m.	7:55 p.m.
May 1	6:26 a.m.	8:10 p.m.
May 15	6:12 a.m.	8:22 p.m.
June 1	6:02 a.m.	8:35 p.m.
June 15	6:00 a.m.	8:42 p.m.
July 1	6:04 a.m.	8:44 p.m.
July 15	6:12 a.m.	8:40 p.m.
August 1	6:25 a.m.	8:27 p.m.
August 15	6:37 a.m.	8:12 p.m.
September 1	6:51 a.m.	7:49 p.m.
September 15	7:03 a.m.	7:28 p.m.
October 1	7:16 a.m.	7:03 p.m.
October 15	7:28 a.m.	6:43 p.m.
November 1*	6:45 a.m.	5:22 p.m.
November 15	6:59 a.m.	5:10 p.m.
December 1	7:15 a.m.	5:03 p.m.
December 15	7:27 a.m.	5:04 p.m.
*Time change

Monument Valley at Sunrise

Sunrise, in addition to being one of the most beautiful moments in Monument Valley, is also the quietest, since that’s when there are the fewest visitors. Here, you’ll watch as the sun rises from behind the promontories, lighting up the sky while the rock formations remain in shadow—until the light reaches them and begins to change their hues.

The panoramic terrace at the Visitor Center is the perfect spot to watch the sunrise, as it faces northeast. The first three lookouts along Scenic Drive and those facing the Totem Pole are also good spots, but depending on the time of year, this road may not yet be open by sunrise.

In any case, you can also book a sunrise tour of Monument Valley like this one. It lasts 3 hours and gives you access to the Scenic Drive, taking you to a prime spot to watch the sunrise. Afterward, you’ll continue exploring the area, including some spots in the Backcountry.

Monument Valley at Sunset

Sunset is one of the most epic moments in Monument Valley. At this time of day, the sun is behind you as you stand at the main overlooks, allowing you to watch as the light falls on the monoliths and they take on beautiful reddish hues.

One of the most popular spots to watch this spectacle is from the terrace of the Visitor Center, although that’s also where the vast majority of visitors gather. It’s not as peaceful as sunrise, so many people choose to book a sunset tour of Monument Valley like this one, which also takes you through the Backcountry and lets you admire the rock formations during the Golden Hour in a more intimate way.

Remember that if you want to see it from one of the overlooks along Scenic Drive, you must arrive before the last admission time (you'll find all the details in the Monument Valley opening hours section).

Monument Valley Map

On this map, you'll find all the spots we've been talking about throughout this post marked: scenic overlooks, the visitor center, restaurants, nearby attractions, etc.

Tips for Visiting Monument Valley

• 💳 Admission to Monument Valley can only be paid by card, so remember to bring one.
• 🚙 RVs, motorcycles, and bicycles are not allowed on Scenic Drive. It’s also recommended to use a vehicle with a bit of high clearance, especially for the first section (which has the steepest incline).
• ⛽ There are no gas stations inside Monument Valley. The closest one is in Goulding (8 km or 5 mi away), and further away there are in Mexican Hat and Kayenta. Fill up your tank before you head in, just in case! We always use the GasBuddy app and Google Maps to find the cheapest gas stations.
• 🎠If you'd like to take a Monument Valley tour, we recommend booking it in advance; you'll find all the options in this section. You won't save any money by booking it there, and the tour you want at the time you want it may not be available.
• 🏨 If you want to stay overnight in Monument Valley, you should book several months in advance. There are other options in the surrounding area with views of the rock formations; you can find all the information in our post on best hotels to stay in Monument Valley.
• 🌄 Watching the sunrise and sunset is one of the best things to do in Monument Valley, but both require some planning depending on the time of year. You'll find all the information you need in this section.
• ⛈️ Check the flood risk on this website, as afternoon thunderstorms are common in the summer and flash floods may occur.
• 🕜 Remember that there is a time difference between Utah and Arizona from the second Sunday in March through November 1. Monument Valley follows Utah time.
• 🚶🏻Stay on the the marked trails; remember that the only trail you can hike on your own is the Wildcat Trail.
• 🧢 Don't forget your hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen—the sun is very strong in the summer, and there's no shade.
• 💧 Bring plenty of water—at least 2 liters per person (0.5 gallons), or more if you plan to hike the Wildcat Trail.
• 🥪 Pack some snacks in case you get hungry or need to recharge. The View Restaurant is right there.
• ❌ Drones are prohibited, as are collecting plants or rocks and feeding animals.
• 🛜 There may be no service in certain areas, so make sure to download the maps so you don't have to rely on it.
• 🦮 Dogs are allowed in Monument Valley, but they must always be on a leash.
• 📷 Photography for personal use is permitted, but if you want to take photos for professional use, you must request a permit from the Park & Recreation Office. The cost is $60 for a standard vehicle.

FAQs about visiting Monument Valley

How much does it cost to visit Monument Valley?

Admission to Monument Valley costs $10 per person and $15 per vehicle if you want to access the Scenic Drive. This site is not managed by the National Park Service, so the annual National Park Pass is not valid here.

Can you visit Monument Valley on your own?

Yes, it's possible to visit Monument Valley without booking a tour, but you'll be limited to driving along the Scenic Drive and hiking the Wildcat Trail. If you want to visit other areas, you'll need to go with a Navajo guide.

Do you need a 4x4 to visit Monument Valley?

You don’t necessarily need a 4x4 to visit Monument Valley on your own, but keep in mind that the Scenic Drive is an unpaved road and its conditions can vary. Under normal conditions, many visitors drive it in regular cars, although the beginning of the road is the steepest and often has potholes. If you don’t feel comfortable driving on this type of terrain, booking a tour may be a much more comfortable option.

What are the best viewpoints in Monument Valley?

Our favourite viewpoints are the terrace of the Visitor Center, The East and West Mittens Overlook, John Ford's Point, Code Talker Point (or Artist Point) and North Window.

How much time do you need to visit Monument Valley?

For a basic visit, we recommend setting aside about 3-4 hours, keeping in mind that you'll be stopping at all the overlooks along Scenic Drive and those at the Visitor Center. Our favorite option would be to arrive in the afternoon, enjoy the scenery in the evening light, spend the night inside the park (or nearby), and enjoy the sunrise and the Scenic Drive the next day.

What's the best time of day to visit Monument Valley?

Sunrise, sunset, and the middle of the day are the best times to visit. During the central hours of the day—when the sun is at its highest point—the shadows are minimized, and they rock formations are deep orange as the sun shines directly on them.

Is Monument Valley better at sunrise or sunset?

Both moments are incredible, but from our perspective, the colors of the sunset are better. Plus, since the sun isn't directly in your face, taking photos is much easier.

Are there hotels in Monument Valley?

Yes, there are hotels both within Monument Valley and in the surrounding area, but each option has its advantages and disadvantages. You'll find all the information in our post about the best hotels to stay in Monument Valley.

Can you visit Monument Valley from Page?

Yes, that's actually what we did on our first visit. Keep in mind that it takes about 2 hours to drive each way, and depending on the time of year, the time in Page is different from that in Monument Valley.

Can you visit Monument Valley from the Grand Canyon?

Yes, it's possible, although you should exit through the East Entrance to take the shortest route, which still takes 2 hrs 40 min.

We hope you find this guide to visiting Monument Valley helpful!

Foto amanecer: B24Canyns, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons; atardecer: Romain Guy from San Francisco, USA, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons