Monument Valley

Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park

An iconic landscape straddling the Arizona-Utah border featuring massive red rock buttes and mesas that have become synonymous with the American Southwest in popular culture. The scenic drive and guided tours offer stunning photography opportunities and a glimpse into Navajo culture.

Things to do

• Valley Drive Scenic Loop — Self-guided 17-mile loop through the park with pullouts at iconic formations like the Mittens, Merrick Butte, and Elephant Butte.
• Guided Jeep Tour — Narrated tours led by Navajo guides that access backcountry roads and lesser-known rock formations beyond the main loop.
• Sunrise at Mitten View Overlook — Arrive before dawn to photograph the iconic West and East Mittens and Merrick Butte bathed in golden and pink light.
• Wildcat Trail Hike — A 3.2-mile unpaved trail that circles the base of the West Mitten with close-up views of the formation and desert terrain.
• Horseback Riding — Ride through Monument Valley with Navajo guides to experience the landscape as the Diné have for generations.
• The View Restaurant and Lodge — Stay at or dine at this Navajo-owned establishment perched on the rim with unobstructed views of the Mittens.

Food to try

• Navajo Tacos — Crispy fried bread topped with seasoned ground beef, beans, lettuce, tomato, cheese, and salsa—a beloved local favorite available at most park food vendors.
• Mutton Stew — Traditional Navajo dish of slow-cooked lamb or mutton with potatoes, onions, and chile served at local restaurants and lodges.
• Frybread with Honey — Warm, pillowy fried dough drizzled with honey and sometimes dusted with powdered sugar, sold by Navajo vendors throughout the park.
• Blue Corn Mush — A traditional Navajo breakfast or side dish made from cornmeal, often served with butter and available at The View Restaurant.
• Navajo Coffee — Strong, traditionally brewed coffee served throughout the park, sometimes prepared outdoors by guides during tours.

Local customs & good to know

• Ask Permission Before Photography — Always ask Navajo guides and residents before photographing people, sacred sites, or cultural practices—it's a sign of respect.
• Support Navajo-Owned Businesses — Prioritize purchasing from local Navajo vendors, guides, and the tribal park itself; your spending directly supports the community.
• Learn About the Diné Perspective — Hire a Navajo guide to hear authentic stories about the land's cultural and spiritual significance rather than relying solely on interpretive signs.
• Respect the Sacred Landscape — Monument Valley is not just a scenic backdrop but a homeland with deep spiritual meaning to the Navajo people—stay on designated trails and avoid disturbing rock formations or artifacts.