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Monument Valley Tribal Park Visitor Center

Discover the iconic sandstone buttes and rich Navajo culture at the gateway to Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park, a timeless American landscape.

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The Monument Valley Tribal Park Visitor Center serves as the gateway to the iconic landscape of Monument Valley, offering panoramic views of the towering sandstone buttes and mesas that define the American West. Operated by the Navajo Nation, the center provides information, guided tours, and cultural exhibits that highlight the history and traditions of the Navajo people.

A brief summary to Monument Valley Tribal Park Visitor Center

Local tips

  • Arrive early, especially during peak season (late April to late September), to avoid crowds and secure parking.
  • Bring water and sun protection, as the desert climate can be harsh, especially during the summer months.
  • Consider taking a guided tour with a Navajo operator to access restricted areas and learn about the valley's history and culture.
  • Respect Navajo Nation regulations and guidelines to help preserve this ancient site.
  • Check the Navajo Nation Parks & Recreation website for updated hours of operation, holiday closures, and any special advisories.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    The Monument Valley Tribal Park Visitor Center is located off US Highway 163, approximately 22 miles north of Kayenta, Arizona, and 25 miles south of Mexican Hat, Utah. From Highway 163, turn east onto Monument Valley Road. The visitor center is about 4.5 miles from this intersection. There is ample parking at the visitor center. Be aware that the last stretch is unpaved with rough terrain.

  • Public Transportation

    While there is no direct public transportation to the Monument Valley Tribal Park Visitor Center, the Bundu Bus offers services from major cities like Salt Lake City and Las Vegas to the general Monument Valley area. From there, you would need to arrange for a taxi or shuttle to reach the visitor center. This option requires significant advance planning. Check the Bundu Bus website for schedules and fares. Taxi/shuttle costs can vary, so confirm pricing before departure.

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Discover more about Monument Valley Tribal Park Visitor Center

The Monument Valley Tribal Park Visitor Center is more than just an information hub; it's an immersive introduction to the Navajo Nation's sacred heartland. Established in 1958, the park itself stands as a testament to the Navajo's enduring connection to this land, known as Tsé Biiʼ Ndzisgaii in the Navajo language. From the visitor center, you're greeted by the world-famous panorama of the Mitten Buttes and Merrick Butte, sandstone masterpieces sculpted over millions of years by wind and water. The center offers insights into the valley's geological history, from its origins as a lowland basin to the uplifting forces that created the plateau. Inside, exhibits showcase the rich cultural heritage of the Navajo people, their traditions, and their ongoing stewardship of this land. You can also arrange guided tours led by Navajo operators, which provide access to restricted areas and a deeper understanding of the valley's hidden gems, such as ancient cliff dwellings and natural arches. The visitor center also serves as a starting point for the Wildcat Trail, the only self-guided hiking trail within the park, offering an up-close encounter with the iconic Mitten Butte. The Navajo Nation established the Tribal Park to preserve this unique environment and share its beauty with the world. A visit here is not just a sightseeing trip; it's an opportunity to learn about and respect the culture of the Diné, the Navajo people, who have called this land home for centuries.

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