Monument Valley, known as the “Valley of the Rocks”, is a breathtaking region on the Utah-Arizona border in the Colorado Plateau. This iconic landscape became famous thanks to director John Ford, who symbolized the American West in classic Western films from the 1930s. Towering sandstone buttes, some reaching 1,000 feet, define its dramatic scenery. Sacred to the Navajo Nation, the Monument Valley tour has been a cultural and spiritual landmark for centuries. Tourists can explore Valley Drive, admire formations like the Mittens and Merrick Butte, and shop for Navajo crafts at John Ford’s Point. This mythical desert will always remain a must-visit attraction.
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History Of Monument Valley
Monument Valley started forming around 300 million years ago as a low basin. Over time, layers of sandstone built up, and temperature changes slowly eroded the softer rock. The erosion left only the sandstone tower buttes that we know as valleys today. Monument Valley is a symbol of the Old West.The Goulding family began an open trading post there in the 1920s to sell supplies to locals and empower their community, which lasted until the 1960s. He showed them a picture of Monument Valley and shared its history, which led to the filming of the classic movie Stagecoach (1939) starring John Wayne. Many movies have iconic scenes shot in Monument Valley, including Forrest Gump (1994).
Top 10 Must See Places In Monument Valley
1. Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park
Monument Valley is a land of towering sandstone formations, rising 400 to 1,000 feet above the desert ground. This location is one of the most photographed places on Earth, especially at sunset when it casts dramatic shadows and highlights the valley’s magical natural beauty. The majestic rock pinnacles stand tall among endless mesas, buttes, and rolling sand dunes, painted in rich desert hues. Visitors should consider purchasing mesmerizing handcrafted jewelry made by Navajo artisans.
2. The Mittens & Merrick Butte
Must add this to your Monument Valley tour list. First featured in the 1938 classic Stagecoach, Monument Valley has represented the western landscape. The Mittens are 1,900 meters high and, together with Merrick Butte, form a triangle. The Mittens are iconic. If you stay at the view and then take a walk into the valley, you can see things up close. The buttes are made up of three layers: the lowest layer is organ shale rock, the middle is De Chelly sandstone, and the upper layer is Moenkopi.
3. John Ford’s Point
Must add this to your Monument Valley tour list. Its iconic feature, Monument Valley, is named after Doctor John Ford, who shot nine movies in the area. Known as John Ford’s Point, this breathtaking location features open areas and sandstone rock formations, making it an amazing spot for sunrise and sunset photography. This place is best for capturing breathtaking shots, as it is located in Monument Valley near the Utah and Arizona border.
4. Mystery Valley
In the greater Monument Valley area, Mystery Valley is a charming treasure. It features many caves that provide evidence of older civilizations that were present long ago. Hidden in the middle of the red desert, the valley was occupied by the Anasazi, an ancient culture that mysteriously disappeared 100 years before the arrival of the Navajo. Dwellings are found in the rock formation caves, and petroglyphs are still visible.
5. Hunts Mesa
Hunts Mesa is a striking location within Monument Valley, known for its sandstone formations. It’s a popular spot for photographers and visitors, offering amazing views of the surrounding landscape. Although the mesa itself is not accessible to the public, it is a key part of the overall scenery of Monument Valley. Formed by centuries of erosion, it has a unique shape and towering height that makes it popular. You can’t climb up Hunts Mesa, but you can see it from different spots in the valley, especially when the sun sets and it turns orange and pink.
6. Monuments Valley at Night
Monument Valley at night is like stepping into a dream. The tall sandstone formations, like the Three Sisters, stand against the inky black sky, their shapes almost mystic. Millions of stars twinkle above, painting the vast desert canvas with a heavenly masterpiece. It’s a place where time seems to stand still, and you feel a connection to something much bigger than yourself. This experience is a must-add to your Monument Valley tour list.
Conclusion
Monument Valley is a place that stays with you long after you’ve left. It’s not just a collection of stunning rock formations, but a landscape that evokes a sense of wonder. Our tour was a tornado of stunning views, fascinating history, and a deep connection to the Navajo culture that calls this place home. We learned about the legends and stories passed down through generations, each rock formation holding unique meaning and significance. Monument Valley tour is a destination that should be explored and cherished. monument valley tour