Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park

About

Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park sits on the Arizona-Utah border within the Navajo Nation, featuring some of the most recognizable landscapes in the American West. The towering sandstone buttes, crimson mesas, and vast desert vistas have appeared in countless films and photographs, but nothing compares to seeing them in person.

The park is managed by the Navajo Nation, not the National Park Service, so visitors should be aware that Navajo Nation regulations apply. A tribal park entry fee is required, and all visitors should respect the land and the communities who call it home.

The most popular way to experience the valley is the 17-mile scenic loop drive, a self-guided dirt road that winds past many of the most famous formations including the Mittens, Merrick Butte, and Totem Pole. The road is unpaved and can be rough in places, so a high-clearance vehicle is recommended, though standard cars do make the drive in dry conditions. Plan about two to three hours for the full loop with photo stops.

For a deeper experience, guided tours led by Navajo guides are highly recommended. These tours access areas that are closed to the general public, offering views and cultural context you will not get on your own. Tours range from open-air jeep rides to horseback excursions, and guides share stories about Navajo history and the spiritual significance of the landscape.

The visitor center near the park entrance includes a small museum, gift shops, and a restaurant with panoramic views of the valley. This is also where you will find restrooms and information about tour operators.

The best times to visit are spring and fall when temperatures are moderate. Summer brings intense heat, and winter can bring cold winds and occasional snow. Sunrise and sunset are particularly spectacular, painting the formations in deep reds and golds. Photography is welcome in most areas, but always ask permission before photographing Navajo residents or their property.

Remember that the Navajo Nation observes Daylight Saving Time, unlike the rest of Arizona, so check the time difference if you are traveling from other parts of the state.

Accessibility

Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park presents significant accessibility considerations due to its remote desert terrain. The visitor center area near the park entrance is on relatively level ground and provides the most accessible experience, with panoramic views of the valley available from the overlook area near the parking lot.

The 17-mile scenic loop drive is an unpaved dirt road with rough and uneven sections. Visitors who remain in their vehicles can experience many of the major formations from the car, making the drive itself a viable option for those with mobility limitations.

Guided vehicle tours use open-air jeeps and off-road vehicles that travel over rough terrain. Transferring into and out of these vehicles may be challenging for wheelchair users or those with limited mobility. Contact tour operators directly to discuss specific needs and accommodations before booking.

The visitor center building and restaurant are accessible gathering points. Restroom facilities are available at the visitor center.

There are no paved walking trails within the valley itself. The terrain is sandy, rocky, and uneven throughout the park, which presents challenges for wheelchair users and those using mobility devices.

The park is located in a remote area with limited cell service and no nearby medical facilities. Visitors should plan accordingly and bring sufficient water, sun protection, and any needed medications.

Contact Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park directly at the visitor center for the most current information about accessibility accommodations, vehicle tour options for visitors with disabilities, and any recent improvements to facilities. Conditions and available services can change seasonally.

More accessible places in Arizona

• Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum (Tucson)
• Children's Museum of Phoenix (Phoenix)
• Heard Museum (Phoenix)
• Musical Instrument Museum (Phoenix)
• Slide Rock State Park (Sedona)
• Lowell Observatory (Flagstaff)