Must See Places in Arizona: Monument Valley

Introduction

Arizona is widely known for its stunning landscapes, unique culture, and abundant wildlife. One of the most breathtaking regions in Arizona is Monument Valley. This beautiful valley is located in the Navajo Nation and is a popular destination for tourists. From the iconic sandstone towers to the expansive canyons and mesas, Monument Valley is a sight to behold. This blog post will discuss twelve of the must-see places in Monument Valley and provide readers with a comprehensive overview of the area.

Navajo Tribal Park

The first stop in Monument Valley is the Navajo Tribal Park. This Park is the only place in Monument Valley where visitors can drive on the tribal land. The Park is managed by the Navajo Parks and Recreation Department and offers visitors the opportunity to explore the area and learn more about the Navajo culture. Visitors can also take part in guided tours, which provide an up-close look at the breathtaking views of the sandstone towers.

Monument Valley Scenic Drive

The next must-see place in Monument Valley is the Monument Valley Scenic Drive. This 17-mile drive takes visitors through the stunning terrain and provides them with spectacular views of the iconic sandstone towers. As visitors drive through the valley, they can take in the breathtaking views of the canyons and mesas. The drive also passes by the Three Sisters rock formation and stops at the Totem Pole and Ear of the Wind rock formations.

John Ford Point

John Ford Point is a popular spot in Monument Valley. This point is named after the legendary film director, John Ford, who used Monument Valley as a backdrop for some of his best films. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the valley and take in the grandeur of the sandstone towers. This spot is also a great place for photographers and videographers to capture the beauty of Monument Valley.

The View Hotel

The View Hotel is a unique hotel located in Monument Valley. This hotel is located right on the edge of the valley and offers visitors stunning views of the sandstone towers. The hotel also has a restaurant, which provides visitors with a variety of traditional Navajo dishes. The View Hotel is the perfect place for visitors to relax and enjoy the beauty of Monument Valley.

Monument Valley Navajo Tours

Another must-see attraction in Monument Valley is the Monument Valley Navajo Tours. These tours provide visitors with an up-close look at the stunning terrain and allow them to learn more about the Navajo culture. The tour guides provide visitors with detailed information about the area and its history. Visitors can also take part in guided hikes, which offer stunning views of the sandstone towers.

Wildcat Trail

The Wildcat Trail is a must-see spot in Monument Valley. This trail is a great place for hikers and nature lovers to explore the area and take in the beauty of Monument Valley. The trail is a 4-mile loop and provides visitors with stunning views of the sandstone towers and the valley floor. Visitors can also learn more about the flora and fauna of the area.

Rock Art Sites

Monument Valley is home to numerous rock art sites. These sites are believed to be up to 2,000 years old and feature stunning petroglyphs and pictographs. Visitors can explore these sites and learn more about the history of the area.

Goulding’s Trading Post Museum

The Goulding’s Trading Post Museum is another must-see spot in Monument Valley. This museum is located in the historic trading post that was founded by Harry Goulding. The museum features numerous artifacts, photographs, and documents, which provide visitors with an in-depth look at the history of Monument Valley.

Mystery Valley

Mystery Valley is a popular spot in Monument Valley. This area is known for its mysterious sandstone formations and is home to numerous petroglyphs and pictographs. Visitors can explore the area and take in the stunning views of the sandstone towers.

Oljato Moon House

The Oljato Moon House is another must-see spot in Monument Valley. This historic building was constructed by the Navajo in the 1880s and is believed to be the first permanent structure in the area. Visitors can explore the area and learn more about the history of the Oljato Moon House.

Rainbow Bridge National Monument

The Rainbow Bridge National Monument is the next stop in Monument Valley. This natural bridge is one of the largest natural bridges in the world and is a popular tourist destination. Visitors can take in the stunning views of the bridge and explore the surrounding area.

Monument Valley Safari

The last must-see spot in Monument Valley is the Monument Valley Safari. This safari provides visitors with an up-close look at the area and its wildlife. Visitors can take part in guided jeep tours, which provide them with stunning views of the sandstone towers and the valley floor.

Conclusion

Monument Valley is one of the most breathtaking regions in Arizona. This valley is home to numerous must-see attractions, including the Navajo Tribal Park, the Monument Valley Scenic Drive, John Ford Point, the View Hotel, Monument Valley Navajo Tours, the Wildcat Trail, rock art sites, the Goulding’s Trading Post Museum, Mystery Valley, the Oljato Moon House, and the Rainbow Bridge National Monument. Visitors can explore these attractions and take in the beauty of Monument Valley. With its stunning landscapes, unique culture, and abundant wildlife, Monument Valley is a must-see destination.