Best For
Photography enthusiasts and road-trippers with high-clearance vehicles.
Monument Valley Scenic Drive
US
Tourist Attraction·Rugged, Iconic, Vast
The Monument Valley Scenic Drive is a legendary 17-mile unpaved loop that takes travelers deep into the heart of the Navajo Tribal Park. Located in Oljato-Monument Valley, Utah, the drive features 10 to 15 designated stops where visitors can marvel at towering sandstone buttes and intricate rock formations that have served as the backdrop for countless films. The journey typically takes two to three hours, allowing for plenty of time to capture photographs and browse handcrafted goods from local Navajo artisans. While the road is rugged and dusty, the reward is an immersive experience in one of the most recognizable landscapes in the United States. For those without a suitable vehicle, guided tours are a popular alternative to navigate the uneven terrain.
The Monument Valley Scenic Drive is a legendary 17-mile unpaved loop that takes travelers deep into the heart of the Navajo Tribal Park. Located in Oljato-Monument Valley, Utah, the drive features 10 to 15 designated stops where visitors can marvel at towering sandstone buttes and intricate rock formations that have served as the backdrop for countless films. The journey typically takes two to three hours, allowing for plenty of time to capture photographs and browse handcrafted goods from local Navajo artisans. While the road is rugged and dusty, the reward is an immersive experience in one of the most recognizable landscapes in the United States. For those without a suitable vehicle, guided tours are a popular alternative to navigate the uneven terrain.
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Address
Indian Rte 42,Oljato-Monument Valley, UT 84536, USA
Websitenavajonationparks.org
Hours
Opens soonDaily 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Highlights
17-mile loop with over 10 designated viewpoints.
Iconic sandstone buttes and unique rock formations.
Opportunities to purchase handcrafted items from local Navajo sellers.
Self-guided driving experience through sacred tribal lands.
Incredible photo opportunities at every turn.
Occasion Tags
Tourists, Solo, Groups, Family
Reviews
4.5
Excellent133 reviews
Reviewers consistently describe Monument Valley Scenic Drive as a must-see destination with scenery that is even more impressive in person than in photos. The 17-mile loop is praised for its numerous viewpoints and unique rock formations, though many visitors emphasize that the road is quite rough and unpaved. A high-clearance vehicle or 4x4 is strongly recommended, as standard cars and minivans often struggle with the terrain. The entry fee is generally considered reasonable, though some note it is separate from the National Park Service pass. Visitors appreciate the presence of local Navajo sellers offering handcrafted items along the route. Overall, the sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the drive as a highlight of any Southwest road trip.
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Location
Oljato-Monument Valley, Utah, United States
