
John Ford's Point Monument Valley Tribal Park Arizona
Iconic Navajo Tribal Park with towering sandstone buttes, famous from Western films and offering breathtaking vistas.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical light, fewer crowds

John Ford's Point Monument Valley Tribal Park Arizona
Best Time
Magical light, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic Navajo Tribal Park with towering sandstone buttes, famous from Western films and offering breathtaking vistas.
"Just Amazing.... no words can describe the scene! It is a once in a lifetime experience."

🚗 Rent an SUV or Take a Tour
The scenic drive is rough. An SUV is best, or join a guided tour for easier access.
📸 Beat the Crowds for Photos
If on a tour, get out first for photos at popular spots like John Ford's Point to avoid people.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

John Ford's Point
Monument Valley Scenic Drive
Iconic viewpoint for sweeping vistas of buttes, famous from Western films. Perfect for that classic cowboy shot.

The Mittens
Monument Valley Scenic Drive
Two majestic sandstone buttes, the Left and Right Mittens, are the park's most recognizable landmarks.

Forrest Gump Point
US-163 Scenic Highway
Recreate the famous movie scene on this stretch of highway with Monument Valley as your backdrop.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navajo Tribal Park Fees
Road Conditions & Vehicle Choice
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Rent an SUV or Take a Tour
The scenic drive is rough. An SUV is best, or join a guided tour for easier access.
📸 Beat the Crowds for Photos
If on a tour, get out first for photos at popular spots like John Ford's Point to avoid people.
🐎 Horseback Riding Option
Enhance your experience by riding a horse out onto John Ford's Point for unique photos.
💰 Budget for Entrance Fees
Monument Valley is a Navajo Tribal Park with per-person fees, not covered by national park passes.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Rent an SUV or Take a Tour
The scenic drive is rough. An SUV is best, or join a guided tour for easier access.
📸 Beat the Crowds for Photos
If on a tour, get out first for photos at popular spots like John Ford's Point to avoid people.
🐎 Horseback Riding Option
Enhance your experience by riding a horse out onto John Ford's Point for unique photos.
💰 Budget for Entrance Fees
Monument Valley is a Navajo Tribal Park with per-person fees, not covered by national park passes.
🌅 Sunrise is a Must-Do
For the best experience, consider staying overnight at The View Hotel for sunrise.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently describe Monument Valley as an awe-inspiring, once-in-a-lifetime experience with breathtaking scenery. The iconic buttes and vast landscapes are universally praised, especially during sunrise. Some find the entrance fee and rough road conditions a drawback, but most agree the views and photo opportunities are well worth it.
"Just Amazing.... no words can describe the scene! It is a once in a lifetime experience. Definitely pay the $8 per person to drive around the valley. SUV is preferable for self drive, if not take the tour. Sunset is not necessary but sunrise is a must, but then you have to stay over at the View Hotel. Its expensive, but worthwhile once in your lifetime. If you stay at the View Hotel, it doesn't matter what room you have, they all have a great view."
David Thomas
"Legend has it that this was where John Ford would enjoy the view watching the sunset with his whiskey ! There is a little food stand with a fry bread. Recommend if you stop here on the tour get out first and take your photos before the rest of the group gets there, unless you like random people in your photos. 😜"
James Jayjack
"Excellent scenery. Stopped here to get my photo where John Wayne was. Was disappointed it had a fence .. Wished it had an open spot to at least get a mock shot or had other points just blocked off. Very rough road to get there but worth it"
Rodney Brasfield
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Monument Valley is located on the Arizona-Utah border, accessible via US-163. The main entrance is marked and leads to the visitor center and scenic drive. Many visitors drive from Page, Arizona, or Moab, Utah.
Monument Valley lies within the Navajo Nation, straddling the border of Arizona and Utah. The iconic views are often associated with Arizona, but the park spans both states.
You can drive your own vehicle on the 17-mile scenic loop, but it's a dirt road that can be rough. An SUV is recommended, and check with your rental company about restrictions on dirt roads.
Many visitors opt for the 17-mile scenic drive. For a deeper experience, guided tours with Navajo guides are available, offering access to restricted areas and cultural insights.
Absolutely! The breathtaking landscapes and iconic buttes make it a once-in-a-lifetime experience for many, especially for photography and experiencing the Wild West.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Monument Valley is a Navajo Tribal Park, so there's an entrance fee per person, typically around $8. This fee is separate from any national park passes you might have.
Tickets are usually purchased at the entrance gate. However, if you plan to stay at The View Hotel, booking your accommodation well in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season.
The park is generally open daily from sunrise to sunset. Specific hours for the visitor center and any guided tours may vary, so it's best to check the official Navajo Parks and Recreation website.
Discounts are not commonly advertised, but fees are per person. Families should factor this into their budget. Check if any specific group rates are available if you're traveling with a large party.
No, the America the Beautiful Pass is for U.S. National Parks and Monuments. Monument Valley is a Navajo Tribal Park, so a separate entrance fee is required.
📸 📸 Photography
John Ford's Point offers iconic views, as does the Forrest Gump Point on US-163. The Mittens are also prime subjects. Sunrise and sunset provide the most dramatic lighting.
Sunrise and sunset are magical for photography, casting a warm, golden glow on the buttes. Midday can be harsh, but still offers dramatic shadows.
Yes, it's a popular activity to take photos with horses at John Ford's Point, often for an additional fee. It adds to the Western movie vibe.
Generally, photography is allowed and encouraged. However, always be respectful of the Navajo culture and any designated sacred sites. Drone usage may be restricted.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vast landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating specific buttes. Don't forget a tripod for sunrise/sunset shots and plenty of battery power.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The View Restaurant at The View Hotel offers dining with incredible views of the Mittens. There are also smaller food stands, like one offering fry bread, near popular viewpoints.
You can find American cuisine at The View Restaurant. Local Navajo fry bread is a popular snack available at some stands. Options are limited within the park itself.
Yes, bringing your own snacks and water is highly recommended, especially if you plan to spend several hours exploring. This is a good option for budget travelers.
The nearest significant grocery stores are in Kayenta, Arizona, which is about a 30-minute drive south. It's advisable to stock up before arriving if possible.
If staying at The View Hotel, dining there is convenient. Otherwise, options are limited to the few stands within the park or driving to Kayenta for more choices.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
🚗 Road Trippers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Scenic Drive
Key formations you'll encounter include the famous Mittens (Left and Right Mitten), Three Sisters, Totem Pole, and Artist's Point. Each offers unique perspectives and photo opportunities. Allow at least 2-3 hours to complete the drive, more if you plan to stop frequently for photos or take a guided tour. Remember to bring plenty of water and snacks, as services are limited along the loop.
The Magic of Sunrise and Sunset
For photographers, these golden hours are prime time. The dramatic shadows and vibrant colors can transform the landscape into something otherworldly. Be prepared for cooler temperatures during these times, even in warmer months. If you're not staying overnight, plan your visit to coincide with these times, but be aware that sunset can draw larger crowds to popular viewpoints.
Cultural Significance and Navajo Nation
Respect is paramount when visiting. Remember that you are a guest on Navajo land. Be mindful of sacred sites, avoid littering, and always ask permission before photographing individuals. Engaging with local artisans selling crafts near the visitor center or viewpoints is also a great way to support the community and take home a piece of Navajo artistry.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit