Monument Valley is amazing, but planning a trip there can be stressful. If you’ve never been there before, it’s hard to know exactly what to do and you don’t want to miss out on anything special.
Which is why I created this Monument Valley guide with my top tips. Monument Valley doesn’t have to be intimidating.
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10 Tips For Visiting Monument Valley
Table of Contents
1. Visit the Visitor Center
Make the Visitor Center your first stop at Monument Valley. It’s located inside The View complex (there’s also a large gift shop, a restaurant with a view, a hotel, a primitive campground and cabins.) You can grab maps, get advice, and see an amazing view of the entire valley spread out below you, including the iconic Mittens buttes; it’s a sight you’ll want to remember.
The staff at the Visitor Center know everything about the park, so ask them for tips on what to see and do. They’ll help you plan your visit so you won’t miss out on the best parts of Monument Valley.
2. Drive the Valley Loop Drive
Monument Valley is officially called the Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park because it sits within the Navajo Nation. The only part of the valley you can drive yourself is the 17- mile loop drive. It’s a dirt road with a steep section at the start, but is doable in a regular vehicle (RVs, trailers and motor cycles aren’t permitted, though).
The road goes past the main sights in the park. You’ll want to stop often to take pictures and enjoy the views. Fortunately, there are frequent pullovers along the entire drive.
➡️ If you can’t – or prefer not to – drive the lop drive, you can book a guided tour on the loop drive here.
3. Book a guided backcountry tour
You can drive the 17-mile drive yourself, but I highly recommend taking a tour as well. Guided backcountry tours take you to places in the park that you can’t get to on your own. A Navajo guide will share stories and show you special spots most visitors don’t get to see.
The guides can take you to see hidden arches, ancient rock carvings, and quiet canyons. It’s a great way to learn about the land, Navajo culture and the stories that make Monument Valley special.
➡️ Book a backcountry tour of Monument Valley here
4. Hike the Wildcat Trail
The drive and tour are great, but if you like to hike, I highly recommend the Wildcat Trail. It’s actually the only trail in the park you can walk without a guide. The trail leaves from near The View Campground and goes around the West Mitten Butte. I really enjoyed seeing the butte from all different angles.
Keep in mind that the trail is usually closed in the middle of the day in summer because it gets too hot. Plan to go early in the morning or later in the afternoon when it’s cooler. You’re also supposed to register at the Visitor Center before setting out.
➡️ READ MORE: Guide to hiking the Wildcat Trail
5. Capture the sunrise
Getting up early to see the sunrise in Monument Valley is a must-do. I know that crawling out of bed that early in the morning can seem like punishment, but as long as it’s a clear morning, you won’t be disappointed.
I saw one of the most colorful sunrises ever from The View, with the buttes silhouetted against a bright red and orange sky. The early morning light then makes the rock formations look incredible. So, find a good spot, set up your camera, and watch the sky change colors.
It’s also quiet and peaceful in the morning, so it’s a perfect time to enjoy the beauty of the park. And you’ll beat the crowds and the heat later in the day.
➡️ You can see the sunrise from The View, but for a different perspective, you can book a sunrise tour of Monument Valley here.
6. Check the weather
Before you go to Monument Valley, check the weather forecast. The weather can change a lot throughout the year, and you’ll want to be prepared for what’s in store. Summers can be scorching, while winters may bring cold temperatures and even snow.
The valley can also be completely obscured by fog early on the morning – which tends to ruin the view (since you can’t see it!). Check the weather and try to time your visit around the weather as much as you can,
If you’re visiting outside the hottest summer months, dressing in layers is a smart move. And, of course, be sun sensible, as the sun and heat can be brutal in summer.
7. Book your lodging well in advance
If you’re planning to stay overnight – and I recommend that you do so you can see the sunrise and sunset – make sure to book your lodging ahead of time.
The valley is pretty isolated – there are really only two places to stay. The View, which is inside the park and has the best views but is also quite expensive, and Goulding’s Lodge, which is a little further away and has more distant panoramic views. Both offer hotels and camping options.
Staying there means you are close the action BUT these spots can fill up fast, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Booking early means you won’t have to worry about finding a place to stay at the last minute.
➡️ Book The View here or Goulding’s Lodge here
8. Time your visit
Try to visit Monument Valley during off-peak times, like weekdays or outside of holiday periods. The park is not that big and it’s justifiably famous, so it can get very crowded. If you can visit when it’s quieter, you’ll have a more relaxed experience without the crowds.
Visiting when it’s less busy means you can take your time at each stop without feeling rushed. You’ll get better photos, and you might even have some of the views all to yourself.
9. Learn about Navajo culture
Monument Valley is not just a park; it’s a significant cultural site for the Navajo people. One of the things I enjoyed the most was the chance to learn from the Navajo guides and artisans who share their history and traditions. The best way to do this is by taking a backcountry tour.
Remember to respect any closed areas in the park. These closures are there to protect important parts of the Navajo culture and the natural environment. By honoring these rules, you’re showing respect for the people who call this land home.
10. Catch Forrest Gump Point
For movie buffs, Forrest Gump Point is a must-see. This is where a famous scene from the movie “Forrest Gump” was filmed. It’s the perfect spot for a classic road trip photo, with the road stretching out behind you and Monument Valley in the distance.
Forrest Gump Point is located on US Highway 163 north of Monument Valley, about halfway between the valley and Mexican Hat.
Be careful when you stop here because it’s still an active road with traffic. Pull off the road safely, and always keep an eye out for cars. I’ve seen lots of people standing (and sitting!) in the middle of the road as cars approached very quickly – with little intention of slowing down for the crazy tourists.
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10 Tips For Visiting Monument Valley
Enjoy your trip to Monument Valley!
More Planning Resources for Monument Valley
⭐ Monument Valley Guide
⭐ Planning A Trip To Monument Valley: 7 Mistakes To Avoid
⭐ Guide To Hiking The Wildcat Trail
⭐ How To Get To Monument Valley
⭐ All the The Airports Near Monument Valley
⭐ The Closest Airport To Monument Valley
⭐ The Best Time To Visit Monument Valley
⭐ Visiting Monument Valley: What To Expect Throughout The Year
⭐ 10 Fun Facts About Monument Valley
⭐ Best Books about Monument Valley
Do you have any other Monument Valley tips? I’d love to hear about them. Join my private Facebook group National Parks Collectors and comment and let me know (you can also pick up extra planning tips, share your photos and stories with other national park lovers and more).
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📖 Do you want to read a book about Monument Valley? Check out my Recommended Reading List
About the Author
James Ian is a national park, camping and hiking expert.
He has dedicated his life to travel, visiting more than 80 countries, all 7 continents and most of the national parks in the United States. With over 35 years experience in the travel industry, James has worked on cruise ships, at resorts and hotels, and as a travel planner who’s helped hundreds of people plan successful trips to US national parks.
Based on his experience visiting our national parks multiple times, in-depth research and expertise as a travel planner, James has published detailed itineraries for many of the major national parks in the US. These itineraries, as well as in-depth park guides, and other resources will help you have your own incredible trip to US national parks without stress and hassle.
As a national park expert, James has contributed to many publications, including USA Today, Newsweek, Time Business News, Savoteur, Best Trip, and Wired.
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