John Ford Point: Where Cinema Meets the Desert
Step into a classic Western at John Ford Point, where cinematic history meets the breathtaking beauty of Monument Valley.
John Ford Point, in the heart of Monument Valley, offers sweeping views of the iconic sandstone formations that have defined the American West. Named after the legendary film director John Ford, who immortalized this landscape in his classic Westerns, it's a must-see for film buffs and nature lovers alike.
A brief summary to John Ford Point
- Oljato-Monument Valley, Arizona, 84536, US
Local tips
- Arrive early or late in the day for the best light and fewer crowds.
- Bring cash for the park entrance fee, horseback photo opportunities, and to support local Navajo vendors.
- A high-clearance vehicle is recommended for the 17-mile scenic loop, especially during wet conditions.
- Stay hydrated and bring snacks, as there are limited facilities within the park.
- Respect the land and culture by staying on marked trails and following Navajo Nation guidelines.
Getting There
-
Driving
From Kayenta, Arizona, head north on US-163 for approximately 24 miles until you reach the Arizona/Utah state line. Continue on US-163 N for another 10 miles, and you'll see signs for Monument Valley. Turn left onto Monument Valley Road (Scenic Drive) and follow it for about 2 miles to the entrance of Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park. The entrance fee is $8 per person per day. Once inside, follow the signs to John Ford Point, which is approximately 3 miles from the entrance. The road is unpaved but usually accessible to standard vehicles. Parking is available near the point.
-
Public Transportation
The nearest town with comprehensive public transportation is Kayenta, AZ. From Kayenta, you can take a taxi or shuttle to Monument Valley. The taxi ride is approximately 25 miles and may cost $40-$60. Upon arrival at Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park, there is an entry fee of $8 per person. From the park entrance, it is recommended to rent a car or join a tour to reach John Ford Point, as public transportation within the park is limited.
Discover more about John Ford Point
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Blackwater Tours
3.9 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich culture of Monument Valley with Blackwater Tours, your gateway to unforgettable adventures in the American Southwest.
Navajo Spirit Tours
4.0 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and rich culture of Monument Valley with guided tours by Navajo Spirit Tours, where adventure and heritage meet.
Navajo Tribal Park Toll
4.5 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Monument Valley at the Navajo Tribal Park Toll, the gateway to iconic sandstone formations and rich Navajo culture.
Sacred Monument Tours
4.9 km
Discover the stunning landscapes and rich culture of Monument Valley with Sacred Monument Tours, a must-visit destination for every traveler.
Monument Valley Tinhorn Tour
5.1 km
Explore Monument Valley with Navajo guides: scenic tours, cultural insights, and unforgettable experiences in the heart of the American West.
Monument Valley Airbnb
11.1 km
Experience authentic Navajo hospitality in the heart of Monument Valley with unique hogan and cabin stays, supporting local Diné families.
Goulding's Resort RV & Campground
12.7 km
Experience Monument Valley's beauty and history at Goulding's Resort RV & Campground, offering stunning views, modern amenities, and cultural tours.
Brick Arch film location for "Once Upon a Time in the West"
21.9 km
Discover the captivating Brick Arch film location in Mexican Hat, Utah, a historic site for movie lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Clay Hill Pass
55.6 km
Explore Clay Hill Pass, a historical landmark in Lake Powell, Utah, where stunning views meet rich stories of the past, perfect for adventurers and history lovers.
Bluff Fort Historic Site
59.9 km
Discover the history of Utah's pioneers at Bluff Fort Historic Site, a captivating museum showcasing authentic structures and engaging exhibits.
House on Fire
72.2 km
Explore the House on Fire, Utah's breathtaking historical landmark showcasing ancient cliff dwellings and stunning landscapes.
Sipapu Bridge
73.9 km
Discover the stunning Sipapu Bridge in Utah, a breathtaking natural wonder and historical site nestled in the scenic landscapes of Lake Powell.
Butler Wash Ruins
74.8 km
Discover the ancient cliff dwellings of Butler Wash Ruins, a historical landmark in Utah rich in Native American heritage and surrounded by stunning scenery.
Cathedral in the Desert
82.4 km
Discover the awe-inspiring Cathedral in the Desert, where nature's artistry and stunning rock formations create a memorable escape in Utah's breathtaking landscapes.
Five Kiva Pueblo Trail Head
87.8 km
Discover the beauty and history of the Five Kiva Pueblo Trail Head, a must-visit hiking area in Utah, perfect for outdoor adventures and cultural exploration.
Unmissable attractions to see
Three Sisters Viewpoint
0.7 km
Discover the stunning beauty of the Three Sisters Viewpoint in Arizona, where breathtaking vistas await every nature lover and photographer.
North Window Overlook
1.4 km
Discover the breathtaking views of North Window Overlook in Monument Valley, a scenic spot that showcases the beauty of the American Southwest.
Monument Valley
1.8 km
Discover the enchanting landscapes of Monument Valley, a must-visit destination in Arizona that showcases the beauty and culture of the Navajo Nation.
Artist's Point
2.5 km
Discover the breathtaking views of Artist's Point in Kayenta, Arizona, where stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage await every traveler.
Black's Hiking, Jeep Tours and Trail Rides
2.7 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and rich culture of Monument Valley with guided tours from Black's Hiking, Jeep Tours and Trail Rides.
Merrick Butte
2.9 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Merrick Butte, an iconic mountain peak in Monument Valley, Arizona, where nature and culture intertwine.
THE CUBE - Monument Valley
3.0 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes of The Cube in Monument Valley, a national reserve filled with stunning rock formations and rich Navajo culture.
The Cube
3.1 km
Explore The Cube in Kayenta, AZ - a stunning natural rock formation showcasing nature's geometric beauty amidst the serene desert landscape.
Monument Valley View
3.7 km
Explore the awe-inspiring landscapes of Monument Valley View, where iconic sandstone formations and breathtaking vistas await your discovery.
John Wayne Point
3.7 km
Discover breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural history at John Wayne Point in Oljato-Monument Valley, a must-visit destination for nature lovers.
Monument Valley Trading Post
3.7 km
Explore Monument Valley Trading Post for unique handcrafted items reflecting the rich Navajo culture and stunning landscapes of the Southwest.
Monument Valley Tribal Park Visitor Center
3.8 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty and rich culture at the Monument Valley Tribal Park Visitor Center, a gateway to the iconic Navajo landscapes.
Monument Valley Tours
3.8 km
Experience the breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Monument Valley, a must-visit destination in the American Southwest.
Monument valley landscape
3.9 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Monument Valley, an iconic landscape showcasing the stunning sandstone buttes of the American Southwest.
Monument Valley view point
3.9 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and cultural richness of Monument Valley, one of America's most iconic natural attractions, perfect for photographers and adventurers alike.
Essential places to dine
Lindas frybread stand
0.1 km
Experience authentic Native American frybread at Linda's Frybread Stand amidst Monument Valley's breathtaking landscapes.
The View Restaurant
3.7 km
Experience authentic American cuisine amidst breathtaking views at The View Restaurant in Monument Valley.
Linda’s Red Trailer.
9.5 km
Experience authentic Mexican flavors at Linda’s Red Trailer amidst the stunning vistas of Monument Valley.
Goulding's Stagecoach Dining Room
11.9 km
Experience authentic Native American cuisine at Goulding's Stagecoach Dining Room amidst breathtaking views in Monument Valley.
Lee's Smokin' Hot BBQ
90.2 km
Experience authentic barbecue at Lee's Smokin' Hot BBQ in Blanding, UT – where delicious flavors meet friendly service.
USU Blanding Cafeteria
91.2 km
Experience hearty meals and local flavors at USU Blanding Cafeteria in Utah—perfect for refueling after your adventures.
Utah State University Blanding
91.2 km
Explore academic excellence and cultural richness at Utah State University Blanding in scenic southeastern Utah.
Southway Trading llc
91.2 km
Discover Southway Trading LLC in Blanding: Your go-to convenience store with gas, pizza, and ice cream delights.
Cowboy Camp House
91.3 km
Discover comfort and adventure at Cowboy Camp House in Blanding, Utah – your perfect getaway amidst stunning landscapes.
Subway
92.0 km
Discover fresh sandwiches at Subway in Blanding—your go-to spot for delicious meals while exploring Utah's natural wonders.
Stone Lizard Lodge
92.0 km
Discover comfort at Stone Lizard Lodge in Blanding, Utah - your gateway to breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural experiences.
A&W Restaurant
92.0 km
Experience classic American fast food at A&W Restaurant in Blanding - home of delicious burgers and refreshing root beer floats.
Canyon Country Bowling Center and A&W Restaurant
92.0 km
Discover family-friendly entertainment with bowling and classic American dining at Canyon Country Bowling Center & A&W Restaurant in Blanding, Utah.
Bears Ears Inn
92.1 km
Experience comfort and adventure at Bears Ears Inn in Blanding, Utah—your gateway to nature's wonders.
Homestead Steak House
92.2 km
Discover Homestead Steak House: A Premier Dining Experience with Mouthwatering Steaks and Heartfelt Hospitality in Blanding, Utah.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Navajo Souvenir Shop
1.3 km
Explore authentic Native American crafts and unique souvenirs at the Navajo Souvenir Shop in Kayenta, Arizona, a vibrant cultural experience awaits.
The View Hotel
3.7 km
Experience breathtaking views and authentic Navajo culture at The View Hotel in Monument Valley, Arizona. Your gateway to stunning landscapes and unique adventures.
Monument Valley Safari
3.8 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Monument Valley Safari, where stunning landscapes meet rich Navajo culture in an unforgettable adventure.
Navajo Trading Post
3.8 km
Discover authentic Native American jewelry and crafts at the Navajo Trading Post, nestled in the stunning Oljato-Monument Valley.
Monument Valley Souvenirs Shop
3.8 km
Explore Monument Valley Souvenirs Shop for unique treasures and local crafts that celebrate the stunning landscapes and rich culture of Arizona.
Stagecoach Jewelry
9.2 km
Explore the beauty of Native American craftsmanship at Stagecoach Jewelry, located in the breathtaking Oljato-Monument Valley.
Four Mountains Coffee
9.2 km
Experience the perfect blend of exceptional coffee and breathtaking landscapes at Four Mountains Coffee in Monument Valley.
Gift Shop
11.9 km
Explore the Oljato-Monument Valley Gift Shop for unique souvenirs and authentic local crafts reflecting the breathtaking beauty of the Southwest.
Goulding’s Gas Station
12.0 km
Explore Monument Valley with ease at Goulding’s Gas Station, your essential stop for fuel, snacks, and local insights in the heart of the Southwest.
Goulding's Grocery Store
12.1 km
Goulding's Grocery Store: Your one-stop shop for essentials and local goods in the magnificent Monument Valley.
Shi Stop Shop
13.1 km
Discover reliable auto repair and local insights at Shi Stop Shop, your essential stop for a smooth journey through Monument Valley's stunning landscapes.
Trainrock Tire Repair
23.1 km
Discover reliable tire repair services in the heart of Monument Valley, ensuring a smooth journey through Utah's breathtaking landscapes.
Corn Pollen Way Est.
29.3 km
Discover the artistry of handcrafted jewelry at Corn Pollen Way Est. in Kayenta, Arizona, a treasure trove of Native American craftsmanship and culture.
Charlene Navajo arts and crafts
29.3 km
Explore authentic Navajo craftsmanship at Charlene Navajo Arts and Crafts in Kayenta, Arizona - a must-visit for art lovers and tourists alike.
Navajo Arts and Crafts Enterprise (Kayenta)
30.8 km
Explore the rich Navajo culture through authentic arts and crafts at the Navajo Arts and Crafts Enterprise in Kayenta, Arizona.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Tear Drop Arch B&B
10.1 km
Experience the charm of Tear Drop Arch B&B in Oljato-Monument Valley – a cozy retreat surrounded by stunning desert landscapes and rich local culture.
McDonald's
31.0 km
Discover the convenience of McDonald's in Kayenta, offering tasty fast food options just before your adventure to Monument Valley.
Hampton Inn Kayenta
31.2 km
Experience the beauty of Monument Valley and the rich culture of the Navajo Nation at Hampton Inn Kayenta, your perfect travel base.
Bullfrog Marina - Utah
85.1 km
Discover Bullfrog Marina in Utah - your perfect blend of dining, adventure, and stunning views at Lake Powell.
Grandma's Frybread Shack
92.8 km
Savor the essence of Native American culture at Grandma's Frybread Shack with authentic frybread dishes that delight every palate.
