Things to do & places to visit in Monument Valley, Utah, United States

Monument Valley city in Utah, United States. Timezone: America/Denver, current date and time: Sunday, May 05, 2024, 10:20.

Top things to do (24)

Top places to visit (30 attractions) view more »

5.0 Monument Valley Safari (1.834 reviews)
- Magical experience
4WD, ATV & Off-Road Tours • Sightseeing Tours • Hiking & Camping Tours • Private Tours • Nature & Wildlife Tours

We took the 3.5 hour Sunset Tour. Toney, our Navajo guide, took great care of us. He is SO knowledgeable. He shared names and stories about each of the monuments, answered all of our questions and gave us great photo tips along the way. At one point, Toney realized that a bad storm was coming (a summer monsoon). He calmly guided us to an alcove in a rock wall, where we could watch the storm (and the waterfalls that suddenly appeared), but stay safe and dry until the rain stopped. As we left the park, we were greeted by a clear, bright double rainbow. It was magical. See more..
5.0 Navajo Spirit Tours (1.831 reviews)
- Amazing and authentic experience in Monument Valley
Sunday: Cultural Tours • Night Tours • Sightseeing Tours • Hiking & Camping Tours • Archaeology Tours

I was fortunate enough to enjoy a spiritual retreat and then sunset tour through Monument Valley last week and it was nothing short of spectacular. Gary and his lovely wife Dawn couldn't have been nicer. The Shaman they brought to speak to us was so learned and interesting and everyone was welcoming and open. It was a magical night and I HIGHLY recommend spending this with the team of Navajo Spirit Tours. See more..
5.0 Dineh Bekeyah Tours (1.343 reviews)
- Wonderful photography tours in Monument Valley
Sunday: 7:00 AM - 6:00 PM Historical & Heritage Tours • Sightseeing Tours • Hiking & Camping Tours • Nature & Wildlife Tours • Photography Tours

We took two excellent photo tours with Dineh Bekeyah while in Monument Valley. Both were with Harry Nez who is very personable and had wonderful stories of growing up in the valley and shared his knowledge of the Dine people, culture and language. Harry is also a wonderful photographer and had great suggestions about both composition and technical aspects of photography. The first day was a morning tour through the valley to many wonderful locations. The second day was the highlight of our trip with a late afternoon/evening/sunset trip up to Hunt's Mesa. It was quite a 4-wheel drive adventure getting to the top of the mesa and the views were spectacular. It was an amazing vantage point to over look the entire valley. We highly recommend Dine Bekeyah Tours and especially Harry Nez. See more..
5.0 Navajo Jewelry and Design (19 reviews)
- Fantastic tour of MV
Spent 1-2 hours Speciality & Gift Shops

Jeremy Crank gave us a very informational tour of MV, and also an education on the Navajo culture and religion. It was exactly what we wanted. He took us to places you can't go without a guide. Cannot say enough good things about Jeremy! His tour was definitely the highlight of our vacation. Katie and Larry See more..
5.0 Artist’s Point (9 reviews)
- One of the prettiest stops
Points of Interest & Landmarks • Lookouts • Scenic Walking Areas

Artist's Point (now named Navajo Code Talker Point) is one of the nicest stops on the Valley Drive. You can look out over much of the valley. See more..
5.0 The Mitten Buttes And Merrick Butte (9 reviews)
- Beautiful
Points of Interest & Landmarks • Lookouts • Religious Sites

All the mesas and buttes were equally stunning. Again, once you have seen 4 or 5 of them, they became less visually interesting for me at least. See more..
5.0 Three Sisters (8 reviews)
- Stunning scenery with a great guide
Points of Interest & Landmarks • Lookouts • Religious Sites

We booked both a sunset and sunrise tour with Three Sisters in Monument Valley as we wanted to work with a local company. We lucked out in getting Amory as our guide for both tours. He is a great guide! Amory is friendly and engaging, and as a local resident, has vast knowledge of the area. He shared first hand information regarding the customs, beliefs and history of the people on the reservation, answering all of our questions, often punctuating with personal anecdotes. One of our main goals was to get great photos, and Amory went above and beyond by finding the best spots from which to take pictures. He took fun photos of us as well. We will always have great memories (and photos) of our time in Monument Valley. Thanks Amory! Small suggestion: work on confirmation and instruction communication - sending time/date, pick up location and contact information via email would be helpful. See more..
5.0 Totem Pole And Yei Be Chei (7 reviews)
- Isabelle (France)
Points of Interest & Landmarks • Lookouts • Religious Sites

n Monument valley, we took a tour with a Navajo guide, in an open 4x4 vehicle. It was an unforgettable trip on the chaotic road, winding through a spectacular desert landscape of red sandtone rocks sculpted by erosion. During the trip, we were amazed by the Totem pole, which is are tall towering rock spires pillars rising more than 381 feet high! We learnt that they are all that remains from a highly eroded butte!into the air, saw And here is a whorl, an old mound having reached an advanced stage of erosion. The Totem poles arte sacred for Navajo Indians, as well as the famous Yei Bi Chei, which is also a Navajo spirit invoked during a nine-day ceremony. See more..
5.0 North Window Overlook (6 reviews)
- One of the most visited viewpoints in Monument Valley
Points of Interest & Landmarks • Lookouts • Observation Decks & Towers

One of the most visited viewpoints in Monument Valley, the North Window Overlook makes for the most beautiful and colorful photographs and picture postcards this side of the Grand Canyon. Located in a gap between the edges of Elephant Butte and Cly Butte which frames East Mitten Butte, it immediately recalls the many epic motion pictures that were filmed in this magnificent landscape, including She Wore A Yellow Ribbon, The Searchers, Cheyenne Autumn, Forrest Gump, A Space Odyssey, Stagecoach, My Darling Clementine, Fort Apache, How The West Was Won, Easy Rider and Once Upon A Time In The West. Even in black and white, Monument Valley's distinctive geological features stand out. The North Window Outlook provides great views of the Mittens and other buttes in the Valley. The location is best photographed at the very moment that the sun rises above the horizon. See more..
5.0 Hogan Village (6 reviews)
- A Day In The Life ...
Parks

It is amazing to enter a hogan and see and hear how the Navajo people lived their daily lives. On our visit, a young mother discussed how she is learning the art of weaving while her young daughter shyly smiled at our group. Wish we could have spent more time here because there is so much to appreciate. See more..
5.0 The Hub Point (1 review)
Points of Interest & Landmarks
See more..
4.5 Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park (7.351 reviews)
- Do a tour, and drive the loop on your own
Spent More than 3 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks • Geologic Formations

Stunning. If I were spiritual, I would add that in. A few cautions: currently the tribal elders decreed that all visitors have to exit the loop road by 7 pm. Unfortunately, sunset is now (Sep 1st) an hour later. When your tour ends, as sunset approaches, head to the The View Hotel - pass through the Gift Shop to the south east decks (where diners might eat if/when their restaurant re-opens; still under COVID restrictions) In fact, masks have to be worn in open air - including in tour vehicles. Highly recommend the Dineh Bekayah tour group; female owned (one of the only in the Valley) female managed, female guides. All very professional. Bring cash to save on 8% tax. Some tours done through Goulding’s etc inc the Navajo Nation entry fee of $20/ car w/ 2 pax. Request a refund if you already paid the latter online or while driving the 17 mile loop on your own beforehand. See more..
4.5 Goulding’s Trading Post Museum. (679 reviews)
- Western Memorabilia
Speciality Museums

We visited this museum in 2019 and had a full tour of the living accommodation of the Goulding family which was great. 2022 we were able to see only the ground floor. Understandable with the way the world is at the moment. Disappointing though. See more..
4.5 Wildcat Trail (395 reviews)
- Great Trail
Hiking Trails

It is about 4 miles long and though my wife and I are not real hikers, we do 10,000 steps everyday. The trail was pretty easy, but the walk back up on soft sand was a little tough. It is truly worthwhile, but I recommend allowing 2.5 - 3 hours for photographs. See more..
4.5 Monument Valley Horseback Tours (167 reviews)
- Amazing horseback riding experience with Wild West Trailrides!
Spent 2-3 hours Horseback Riding Tours

We owe much of our success to the relationship we have with horses. The horse is an important, an integral part of the Navajo culture. When you’re in the midst of our horses, you’re already participating in our cultural experience. Our horses are well trained, well-fed and receive a lot of love. If you’re a beginner we make sure riding is fun and exciting. Our horseback guides are available sunrise to sunset and will match you with a horse based on your riding experience. We provide horses for the beginner, intermediate and advanced rider. We’ll take you to popular and historic locations. Routes that other tours don’t and can’t provide without horses or hiking. Your horse and guide are waiting for you, book a tour today! See more..
4.5 Monument Valley – Highway 163 Scenic Drive (112 reviews)
- Fun Moments on this Scenic Drive
Spent 2-3 hours Scenic Drives

Scenic drive from Kayenta to Mexican Hat on US 163 See more..
4.5 Sandstone Tours (107 reviews)
- Sunset tour recommended!
Parks

Sandstone Tours provides an unforgettable experience through the best and most inspiring natural formations that Monument Valley has to offer. With Sandstone Tours you will trek through the valley in a comfortable open air 4x4 truck with a knowledgable Navajo guide. We offer a range of tours in Monument Valley and Mystery Valley as well as a range of tours to choose from. Get a reservation on our website in less than 5 minutes! See more..
4.5 Goulding’s Gift Shop (18 reviews)
- 2.5 hour tour
Spent < 1 hour Speciality & Gift Shops

Jimbo was our guide. This tour was better than we expected!! Jimbo was knowledgeable and polite and so accommodating to our needs. He made it possible to capture the best photos of the Valley!! He knows the Valley and what time if day to get the best shot. Well worth the tour price. It is the only way to see Monument Valley. See more..
4.5 John Ford’s Point (18 reviews)
- Stunning, Iconic Views
Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks • Lookouts

John Ford's Point if one of the most iconic and scenic spots in the Navajo Tribal Park in Monument Valley. It is one of the first places one reaches after heading out on the drive from the visitor centre, either by one's own car (during the permitted hours), or by tour. It was used during filming of westerns and it has sweeping views. There are also touristy things related to westerns there which one can pay for- photo ops, etc., including horses to hire for photos. See more..
4.5 Rain God Mesa (5 reviews)
- Tranquil and Spiritual!
Parks

We drove an RV and not able to take into the Valley however we took a 2.5 hrs tour with a local Native. This included a tour of a private portion of Monument Valley which included seeing Native homes and Hogan over century old. Felicia was our guide, a local young lady who lives in the reservation within Monument Valley. She explained all the Mesas and Buttes along with gracing us with her vocals by singing a native song next to Big Hogan Butte. This was an amazing experience that even made my wife get emotional and cry. Felicia was very knowledgeable and made us appreciate all the natural beauty, and we learned a lot! We even took our dog along for the tour! [email protected] See more..
4.5 Elephant Butte (5 reviews)
- Nice
Religious Sites

Another one of the beautiful buttes located in this area. I had a bit of difficulty identifying it though ;) See more..
4.5 Camel Butte (4 reviews)
- Camel
Geologic Formations

Well, it did look like a camel. Some of the other buttes were a bit harder to see but this one was easily identified. See more..
4.5 Lee Cly Trail (3 reviews)
- Beautiful views, easy access
Sunday: Hiking Trails

The Mesa Rim Trail and the Lee Cly Trail share a trail head located just to the east of The View Hotel right at the end of the parking lot. The trail to Mesa Rim is just .7 miles roundtrip and well worth the short hike to a spectacular view point. You can also go around the entire rim on the Lee Cly Trail which is a 2.1 mile loop. See more..
4.5 Sentinel Mesa (2 reviews)
- The more you look the more you see.
National Parks

We really didn't appreciate this monumental mesa until we hiked the Wildcat Trail. It gradually occurred to us that there is a lot more going on than at first glance. The Sentinel itself is huge, smooth, and imposing, but you cannot really see it until you walk by it. Imagine climbing to the top, and hiking this "island in the sky"? There is a sense of deep history, isolation and massive size when looking at it. If only we could fly! See more..
4.0 Dineh Trail Rides (57 reviews)
- Life in the wild west
Sunday: 8:00 AM - 8:30 PM Horseback Riding Tours

What kid doesn't want to ride through the picturesque monument valley on a horse with a Navajo guide? This 64 year old kid loved it!! I enjoyed the history of the land and the names of the different formations. It was a beautiful way to spend 4 hours. Well worth the money. Thank you Jamison. See more..
4.0 Monument Valley Navajo Market (22 reviews)
- Eat here rather than at the "View Hotel"
Speciality & Gift Shops

The market has a food court with some traditional Navajo food. We tried the Navajo Taco and it was great. Was great to support locals as well rather than the large hotel companies. Also wished had found this place before trying to have coffee at the View Hotel just down the road. The service there was appalling and the prices extortionate. We could have got the same coffee for $1 at the Navajo market as we paid $4 at the hotel for. Great place and would recommend. See more..
4.0 Visitor Center (9 reviews)
- Loved the history information
Parks

We actually went to the Visitor Center after we had done our touring, so the information we learned had more meaning. The history of the valley is fascinating. Only two vendors were open, early in the season and we were the first large tour group since the COVID-19 shutdown. See more..
4.0 The Thumb (3 reviews)
- Unusually fat at the top
National Parks

There are lots of columns, spires and towers to see across the Southwest, but this one is different. It is very monolithic, smooth, deeply "desert polished", and get wider and wider toward the top! Imagine the weight of the thing, and the amazing resistance to the wind if must have to not fall over. We visited it toward the end of a 3 hour tour, which was well worth it. The name doesn't do it justice. See more..
4.0 Spearhead Mesa (1 review)
- Punta di diamante
Parks

Percorrendo la rossa e polverosa scenic drive si costeggia obbligatoriamente sulla destra visto che la stessa si percorre solo in un senso questa maestosa mesa che conduce alla fine alla magnifica spianata denominata Atrist Point, qui a fianco vi è una guglia che sembra la lancia di una freccia o la punta di un diamante.
La sua forma singolare si evidenzia soprattutto guardandola sulla cartina data all'ingresso del parco, tutta a rientranze e spuntoni.
Qualche foto e una sosta sono consigliate See more..
3.5 Goulding Arch (3 reviews)
- Dedicated to Goulding’s
Spent 1-2 hours Hiking Trails

The Goulding’s introduced the Valley to the maker's of Western moves and this is a great gift to them. See more..