Monument Valley Park

Monument Valley is located on the Arizona-Utah border, accessible via US-163. Many visitors drive it as part of a larger Southwest road trip. The closest major airports are in Flagstaff, AZ (about 3 hours away) or Las Vegas, NV (about 5 hours away).

Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park straddles the border of Arizona and Utah. The visitor center and most iconic viewpoints are technically in Arizona, but it's often associated with both states.

Yes, you can drive your own car on the 17-mile scenic loop, but it's a dirt road. High clearance 4x4 vehicles are highly recommended, especially if conditions are wet. Many visitors opt for guided tours.

From the north (e.g., Moab, UT), take US-191 South to US-163 South. From the south (e.g., Flagstaff, AZ), take US-89 North to US-160 East, then US-163 North. Look for signs for Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park. +1

Yes, shuttle services are available, often connecting from nearby attractions like Antelope Canyon. These can be a convenient option if you don't have a suitable vehicle or prefer not to drive the loop yourself.

The entry fee is $8 per person. This fee is for access to the Navajo Tribal Park and the scenic loop drive. It is not per car. +1

No, guests staying at The View Hotel are typically exempt from the park entry fee. However, it's always best to confirm this directly with the hotel when booking.

The Visitor Center hours are generally Monday-Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM. The Scenic Drive is open daily from 6 AM to 8 PM. Always check for any seasonal or unexpected closures.

No, National Park Passes (like the America the Beautiful Pass) are not valid for entry into Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park, as it is managed by the Navajo Nation.

The scenic loop is about 17 miles long and can take 2-4 hours to complete, depending on how often you stop for photos and to enjoy the views.

Iconic spots include The Mittens, Merrick Butte, Three Sisters, John Ford Point, and the Forrest Gump Point overlook on US-163. Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting. +2

Some visitors find sunset at Forrest Gump Point to be backlit and very crowded with traffic. Sunrise or late afternoon light on the buttes from within the park might be better options.

Yes, you can stop your car at designated pull-offs along the scenic loop to take photos. Be mindful of other vehicles and pull over completely.

Yes, guided tours often cater to photographers, taking you to less-visited spots and providing insights into the best times and angles for shots.

Early morning for sunrise and late afternoon for golden hour offer the best light and dramatic shadows. Midday can be harsh, but still offers stunning views.

The View Restaurant at The View Hotel offers dining with incredible views of the valley. There are also limited options at the visitor center and nearby Goulding's Lodge. Packing your own snacks and water is recommended.

The primary dining option within the park is The View Restaurant, located at The View Hotel. It provides a memorable dining experience with panoramic views.

Yes, bringing your own food and drinks is highly recommended, especially if you plan to spend a full day exploring or are on a budget. There are picnic areas available.

The View Restaurant offers a menu that includes Navajo-inspired dishes alongside American classics. It's a great place to try local flavors.

The nearest significant grocery stores are in Kayenta, AZ (about 30 minutes away) or Bluff, UT (about 1 hour away). It's best to stock up before arriving if possible.