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Explore Monument Valley: A Navajo Nation Treasure

Discover the majestic landscapes and rich Navajo culture at Monument Valley, a timeless treasure of the American Southwest.

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Explore Monument Valley offers a gateway to the iconic landscapes and rich cultural heritage of the Navajo Nation. Located in Oljato-Monument Valley, Utah, it serves as a welcome center and starting point for experiencing the majestic sandstone buttes and mesas that define this region.

A brief summary to Explore Monument Valley

Local tips

  • Bring plenty of water, especially if hiking or driving the scenic loop, as the desert environment can be very dry.
  • Consider a guided tour for access to restricted areas and deeper insights into Navajo culture and history.
  • Support local Navajo artisans by purchasing authentic crafts and souvenirs at roadside stands and trading posts.
  • Check the weather forecast and be prepared for extreme temperatures, especially during summer months.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Oljato-Monument Valley, follow US-163 towards the Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park. The entrance to the park is well-marked. Once inside, proceed to the visitor center to pay the entry fee ($8 per person per day). From the visitor center, the scenic 17-mile Valley Drive begins. Note that this is an unpaved, rough road, and high-clearance vehicles are recommended. Alternatively, various tour operators offer guided tours in jeeps or other suitable vehicles. Parking is available at the visitor center, but it can be limited during peak season.

  • Public Transport

    While there is limited public transportation directly to Monument Valley, the Navajo Transit System (NTS) provides service to nearby towns such as Kayenta. From Kayenta, you can hire a taxi or arrange for a shuttle service to reach Monument Valley. Expect to pay around $50-$75 for a taxi ride from Kayenta to the park entrance. Alternatively, some hotels in Kayenta may offer shuttle services to Monument Valley for their guests. Check with your hotel for availability and pricing.

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Discover more about Explore Monument Valley

Explore Monument Valley provides visitors with an opportunity to delve into the heart of the American Southwest and the Navajo Nation. This area, straddling the border of Utah and Arizona, is renowned for its towering sandstone formations, sculpted over millions of years by wind and water. These formations, rising 400 to 1,000 feet above the valley floor, have become iconic symbols of the American West. Visitors can explore the 17-mile scenic drive in their own vehicle (high-clearance recommended) or opt for a guided jeep tour to access the backcountry and hidden gems. The Wildcat Trail offers a self-guided hiking experience, allowing visitors to get up close to the Mitten Buttes. Guided tours provide deeper insights into Navajo culture, history, and the unique geology of the area, often including visits to ancient cliff dwellings and natural arches. The Navajo people, known as Diné, have inhabited this land for centuries, establishing a pastoral society and living in harmony with the environment. Monument Valley is sacred to the Navajo, featuring prominently in their narratives and traditions. Visitors can support local artisans by purchasing authentic Navajo arts and crafts at roadside stands and trading posts. Whether you choose to drive the scenic loop, hike the Wildcat Trail, or embark on a guided tour, a visit to Explore Monument Valley promises an unforgettable experience amidst the stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage of the Navajo Nation.

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