Discover Monument Valley: Iconic Utah Desert Adventure Awaits

Even people who have never set foot in the Western United States are well acquainted with the towering rock formations of Southern Utah’s Monument Valley thanks to their inclusion in numerous classic films. Visitors can drive to Monument Valley and pull over around marker 13 to stand in the same spot where Forrest Gump—the beloved fictional hero of the film that bears his name—famously stopped running and decided to head back home to Alabama after crisscrossing the United States on foot for over 3 years.

If you’re yearning for the perfect view, consider hiking the self-guided 3.2-mile Wildcat Trail. The Wildcat Trail allows visitors an up-close view of Monument Valley’s iconic Mitten and Merrick Buttes. Travelers can also opt for a guided tour from a company such as Navajo Spirit Tours, Philips Photography, or Sandstone Tours. Thrill-seekers can opt to go horseback riding with a tour group such as Dineh Tour Rides. Exploring some of the world’s most famous desert landscapes on horseback is one of the best things to do at Monument Valley.

One of the best tours of Monument Valley is the Sunrise or Sunset Tours, which are offered by Valley View Tours. Visitors can spend 3 hours viewing the magnificent rock formations of Monument Valley as light illuminates or casts shadows on the rusty orange rocks.

The View Hotel at Monument Valley offers cozy guestrooms, premium cabins that offer sweeping views of iconic rock formations, and a campground with RV sites and rugged wilderness sites. The View Hotel is also home to the View Restaurant and a trading post that sells Navajo jewelry, rugs, and woven baskets.

Monument Valley is a popular road trip destination. Approximately 6 hours from Las Vegas, Nevada, and 2 hours from Page, Arizona—cruising on Monument Valley’s 17-mile loop is an excellent way to view some breathtaking scenery. During peak tourist season—which is from May-September—expect heavy traffic and possible delays.

The winter is one of the best times to visit Monument Valley. The rock formations are often blanketed in snow, the air is brisk, and smaller crowds make for a more peaceful experience.

Monument Valley has been photographed and featured in countless films a seemingly infinite number of times. Though many have tried, no photo or film can truly showcase the breathtaking beauty of one of the world’s most celebrated desert landscapes. Viewing Monument Valley up-close, with your own eyes, is something that every travel lover should strive to experience.