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Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park adventures

Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park Adventures

Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park features iconic sandstone buttes rising dramatically from the expansive desert floor, offering unparalleled scenes of natural beauty and cultural significance.

91,696
Acres Protected
varied
Miles of Trails
400,000
Annual Visitors
1958
Year Established

About Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park

Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park
 

Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park is situated on the Arizona-Utah border and spans approximately 91,696 acres. It is renowned for its towering red sandstone formations, some of which reach heights of up to 1,000 feet. The park's iconic buttes have been featured in numerous films and photographs, capturing the enduring allure of the American Southwest. This park is uniquely managed by the Navajo Nation, and visitors can explore both its natural wonders and rich cultural heritage through guided tours led by Navajo guides. The park's history is steeped in Native American culture, with evidence of human habitation dating back thousands of years. The landscape is an arid desert ecosystem, home to unique flora such as yucca, juniper, and mesquite, along with wildlife including coyotes and eagles. Key recreational opportunities include guided jeep tours, horseback riding, and hiking, with incredible sites like the Mittens Buttes, John Ford's Point, and the Valley Drive Scenic Loop inviting exploration. The park's stark yet captivating landscapes offer an indelible experience for all who visit.

Highlights

Highlight

The Mittens and Merrick Buttes - Iconic sandstone formations.

Highlight

John Ford’s Point - A panoramic overlook famous from Western films.

Highlight

The Valley Drive - A scenic 17-mile dirt road loop accessible only by guided tours or permitted vehicles.

Highlight

Ear of the Wind Arch - A striking natural arch accessible on guided tours.

Notable Natural Features

The Mittens and Merrick Buttes

These iconic geological formations are the most recognized features of Monument Valley, rising majestically from the valley floor.

Totem Pole

A slender spire of rock standing apart from the buttes, offering a striking visual contrast to the broad mesa formations.

Sunset and Sunrise Views

The play of light at dusk and dawn creates dramatic color shifts, making these times ideal for photographers.