We’re often told to see the world through our own eyes, but sometimes there is a landscape so iconic that you have no choice but to appreciate it through someone else’s. As soon as you enter the Southwest, you start seeing Monument Valley everywhere. Its iconic red spires poking out of a desert valley floor can be found on postcards, billboards, and even bottle caps. And while its fame precedes it, it never disappoints in person. This is an amazing place to visit and an incredible cultural experience.
Monument Valley is an iconic landscape straddling the Arizona/Utah border. It’s a Navajo Tribal Park, and it’s one of the most popular tourist destinations in America. Millions of people visit Monument Valley each year to see the stunning sandstone buttes, mesas, and spires that give this place its name.
The valley was first seen by white eyes in 1849 when John C. Fremont visited with Kit Carson. Fremont named it “The Valley of Gods” because he thought it looked like Egyptian ruins (which were also called “Gods”). He returned in 1853 with more men and spent several days exploring the area before leaving again; most people believe this was when he took those famous photographs from atop a tower built for him by his guides who hoped to impress him enough so that maybe he would free them from slaving duties later on down the line…but alas! More on their plight later…
Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park is a famous and spectacular area located on the border of Utah and Arizona. It features some of the most well-known formations in the world, such as The Mittens, Totem Pole, and Three Sisters. The park is known for its rich history with many films being made there. Films such as Forrest Gump and Thelma & Louise were shot here because of the dramatic scenery that you can see from each angle.
There are many ways to experience this national monument including hiking (which is recommended), photography, or even just sightseeing by car along dirt roads that take you past iconic landmarks like Navajo Mountain in Arizona or Agathla Peak in Utah.
There’s a lot to see and do at Monument Valley, so you should plan your trip accordingly. If you can only stay for a few hours, be sure to take the scenic drive around the valley floor and visit the visitor center. But if you have more time, consider camping in the park or taking one of the longer hikes. The park is also close to other national parks and tourist attractions, such as Arches National Park in Utah, so it’s easy to include Monument Valley in your itinerary when planning your trip.
