Monument Valley: A Special Destination With A Sacred History

The Navajo Nation's Monument Valley Park is a mere portion of the desert's Grand Circle, which encompasses Mesa Verde, Arches, Bryce, Grand Canyon, and Zion National Parks. Near the Four Corners of the US, Monument Valley is easily accessible via Highway 163. Experience the rich breadth of the Navajo culture amid these deserts landscapes graced with sandstone bluffs towering above rusty valley floors dotted with pinnacles and rock formations. One of the most photographed points on the planet, Monument Valley Park is simply stunning and entertaining year round.

The Rich History of Monument Valley Park

Once a lowland basin, it took Mother Nature hundreds of millions of years to erode the Rocky Mountains and then deposit those layers progressively along these lands. Slowly, gently, the terrain became an uplift as these deposits and ceaseless underground pressure gradually elevated the horizontal strata in rather uniform layers now reaching one to three miles above sea level. Hence, what once was a basin is now a plateau.

The past 50 million years or so have allowed water and wind to further erode and shape the valley and the surface of the plateau, which reveals the long geologic history of Monument Valley in the Navajo Nation. The Navajo mean everything to these lands and these lands means everything to the Navajo. These peoples proudly share these lands and their cultural insights with park visitors today through a wide range of hikes, tours, and motorized excursions.

However, the Navajo of long ago were too busy fighting off invaders to relish in the beauty of Monument Valley. Centuries ago, the harsh climate and rough terrain of the valley were only two enemies of the Navajo. Other tribes seeking refuge and shelters tried to steal their homes and lands. Then the Spaniards and Euro-Americans came into this territory to raid the natives in efforts to enslave them. Although invaders were successful to some extent, the Navajo people ultimately survived.

Some of the park's most notable historical treasures are the remarkable pictographs and petroglyphs left behind by the ancient Anasazi natives, who called Monument Valley home prior to their vanishing. Many Anasazi dwellings and other relics are observable on guided tours throughout the park.

Popular Attractions and Guided Tours in Monument Valley

Hot Air Balloon Tours – These tours are wildly popular in the Navajo Nation's Monument Valley and for good reason. There's no better way to soak in 360-degree panoramic views of the valley and the nearby scenery than from high in the sky. A Navajo guide drives visitors into the valley while explaining the legends and lore of their peoples, and then guests will board a private hot air balloon tour for an hour journey. Afterward, a continental breakfast is offered, and the guide will treat travelers to mini-tours of backcountry areas like Sun's Eye or the ancient cliff dwellings, depending on the season.

Goulding's Tours – There's a full range of activities and informative tours offered by Goulding's Lodge. Right on the border of Utah and Arizona, Goulding's takes advantage of their proximal location to all the best sights and offers amazing half, full-day, moonlight tours, and others throughout the year. Explore even restricted areas of the park on these tours, and sign up for the full day tour to experience the Anasazi rock art of Mystery Valley. One doesn't need to lodge at Goulding's to take a tour, but discounts are available to those who choose this fine lodging in Monument Valley.

Scenic Drives in Monument Valley – The Bluff Scenic Byway is drivable year round and runs between Bluff and Monument Valley along Highway 163 while the Moki Dugway offers superior scenery and views but is not for the faint of heart. Sheer 1100-foot drop-offs with 10-percent grades make for a jaw-dropping and heart-pounding experience. Just north of Mexican Hat, Utah traverses the 15-mile expanse of the Valley of the Gods to view buttes and spires up close. 4-Wheel drive vehicles are advisable for this scenic drive in Monument Valley.

Private hiking is not permitted within the valley without a guide, but finding knowledgeable Navajo guides within the park is rather easy and affordable. Some popular mesa top trails can be found behind the visitor center and are open for travel year round. These are the Sandal Trail, the Canyon View Trail, and the Aspen Trail. Each is short and easily traversed, and pets are permitted along the trailheads.

Lodging in Monument Valley

Lodging in Monument Valley proper is limited to one option – The View Hotel. The View Hotel is the epitome of contemporary meeting the ancient feel of the scenery. Modern amenities bring comfort while the stunning views remind guests they are within a prehistoric setting. As the only Monument Valley lodge within the park, early reservations are recommended for this eco-friendly lodge.

Arguably, one of the finest Monument Valley lodges just outside the park is Goulding's Lodge at Monument Valley, which offers those comprehensive tours aforementioned. This peaceful and serene home base is open year round, features an indoor pool, free Wi-Fi, a convenience store, the Stage Coach Dining Room, an authentic trading post, a historical museum, and so much more! This pet-friendly Monument Valley lodge is highly recommended amid traveler's circles.