Monument Valley, UT
As an Indonesian kid who grew up watching early Looney Tunes, I’d subconsciously pictured the American West with Road Runner and Coyote chasing each other against orange-colored rocks. I found out later that those orange-colored rocks are indeed a real place.
Monument Valley lies on the Utah and Arizona state line. It’s a part of the Grand Circle (covering Grand Canyon, Zion National Park, Bryce, Arches and more).
Known for its 3 iconic buttes, it has become the American West backdrop in movies and shows involving cowboys on horses. However, this unique geological wonder is way more than a picturesque landscape. Monument Valley is considered a sacred natural sanctuary by the Navajo nation.
It’s also worth noting that the official name is Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park, not a National Park. The Navajo Nation Parks & Recreation is established in 1957 with a mission to “preserve and manage tribal parks, monuments and recreation areas.” This is a growing awareness to “return” the land to indigenous tribes that were taken from Native Americans. This effort is not only for restitution, but also for conservation.
Subsequently, the Navajo nation controls access and traffic to the valley. Some areas are off-limits and require guide (as Monument Valley is still home to a number of Navajo families).
Guide
Getting there. The nearest airport is Phoenix, Arizona. However, you can make connection to Flagstaff airport. Plane is the best way to get there, but if you aren’t considering a long Southwest roadtrip that covers places like the Grand Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, Antelope Canyon, Zion, Bryce.
While in the area consider the Horseshoe Bend, or Antelope Canyon (advanced reservation recommended, limited walk-ins accepted). It’s best to not rush the experience by going to all places as long driving is required and each stop takes up to a day to explore.
Accommodation. There are not a lot of accommodations in the area, but one hotel that’s in the park is called The View Hotel. The name speaks for itself because all their rooms face the 3 iconic buttes. Another hotel is called Goulding’s Lodge.
17-mile loop drive. It’s one of the most impressive terrains in the US. The road is mostly dirt road, so keep in mind the car you drive. The park doesn’t allow motorcycles due to the condition of the road.
Tour Guide. There are multiple Navajo-guided tours in the area available on this site.
Entrance fee is $8 per person (reserve online). Note that Monument Valley is closed on holidays like Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, New Year’s Day Navajo Nation Family Day.
Climate
In summer, Arizona and Utah deserts can get extremely hot and dry, and mild at night. In winter, you might see snowcaps forming on the buttes. Always drink plenty of water especially when you hike.
Geology
Like Zion, water, ice and, wind continuously erode a plateau for 50 million years. The buttes are a result of erosion and harsh climate, but the head of the buttes (cap-rock) resist weathering erosion. However, some rocks underneath the cap-rocks are still prone to erosion, so debris from like a pyramid-shaped spire.
When visiting, please remember to respect and be considerate of the land and the people living in Monument Valley.
Thank you for reading!
