These are the top activities Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park has to offer.
Jeep Tour
Guided by local Navajos, jeep tours are a perfect way to learn about Mounument Valley as well as see all the essential points of interest in comfort and style.
Horseback Riding
Of the various ways to tour Monument Valley, this brings out the adventurer in you as you visit many sites and views on horseback. Led by a knowledgeable guide, this experience will be remembered for a long time.
Hiking
Embark on a journey into Monument Valley's heart on the Wildcat Trail! This 4-mile loop is the park's only public hike, offering moderate challenges and unparalleled views. Traverse sandy washes and wind around the base of the iconic Merrick Butte and East Mitten Butte, feeling dwarfed by these geological giants. As you gain elevation, the entire valley unfolds before you, showcasing the Three Sisters and John Ford's Point in a breathtaking panorama. While the hike requires some effort, the ever-changing scenery and iconic landmarks make Wildcat Trail an unforgettable Monument Valley experience.
Scenic Drive
Unveiling Monument Valley's cinematic grandeur unfolds mile by mile on the 17-mile paved Main Monument Valley Rd. Cruise through the heart of this Navajo wonderland, windows down to soak in the arid beauty. Towering sandstone titans like Merrick Butte and the Three Sisters will rise before you, their colors shifting with the desert light. Pull over at designated viewpoints to capture iconic scenes and explore the formations up close. This scenic drive is the perfect introduction to Monument Valley's majesty, leaving you breathless and yearning to delve deeper.
Stargazing
Escape the light pollution and witness a dazzling display in Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park! With a blanket of inky-black sky overhead, millions of stars come alive, unhindered by city lights. The Milky Way stretches across the horizon like a celestial river, while planets like Jupiter and Saturn shine brightly. Monument Valley transforms into a stargazer's paradise, offering an unforgettable experience that connects you to the cosmos under a breathtaking desert sky.
Gouldings Museum
Delve into Monument Valley's rich history and Hollywood connection at Goulding's Museum! This museum, housed within the original 1920s trading post, showcases the region's transformation from a trading hub for Navajo people to a backdrop for iconic Western films. Explore artifacts depicting Navajo life and immerse yourself in the fascinating era when John Wayne and his crew roamed the valley. Goulding's Museum offers a glimpse into Monument Valley's past, present, and enduring cinematic legacy, all within a historic landmark.
Photography
Channel your inner Ansel Adams at John Ford's Point, Monument Valley's most iconic viewpoint! This natural balcony, named after the legendary director, offers a photographer's dream. With careful composition, capture The Mittens, Merrick Butte, and the Three Sisters all framed together in a single breathtaking shot. Experimenting with different lighting conditions, such as dawn's golden hues or the dramatic shadows of sunset, will enhance the scene's depth. John Ford's Point isn't just a viewpoint; it's a photographer's paradise where you can recreate classic shots or capture your own unique perspective of Monument Valley's timeless beauty.