I was so looking forward to this part of our road trip. Monument valley is just that place you have seen in movies, postcards and so much more. The flat lands with these towering rock (buttes) sticking out is a sight to see. Monument Valley is home to some of the most famous sandstones around the world and brings tourists from around the globe. The Navajo named it Tsé Bii’ Ndzisgaii which means valley of the rocks, very fitting. This stop should be on every nature lovers bucket list.
Then there is the famous Forrest Gump Point. Having the name Jenny, most will turn into Forrest when they first meet me, so why not get that cute memory.
Where is Monument Valley
Monument Valley borders Utah and Arizona, on HWY 163. You can see so much of it from the road but if you want the famous shot of the West and East Mitten Buttes you will need to go to the park.
Before you go
Here are some things you should know before you go to Monument Valley so you won’t be disappointed, like me. Not going to lie, this was very upsetting for me on this trip. Monument Valley Park has a great road going into the park. However, once you are inside and paid your fee you will be upset to see the state of the “roads”. If you are planning to drive yourself, you better have a 4×4 and not a rental. To say the roads are rough is an understatement. Now we only made it to the first stop as our rental was not 4×4 but they do warn you about the roads in the guide.
Now with that said, there are tours you can do. I did not plan for that and we didn’t have the time. There are small tour groups in the lot and you can try to book last minute. Or you can plan better than I did and book ahead of time.
Park entrance
- Vehicle 1-4 people is 20.00 for day use
- Additional people is 6.00
- Motorcycle is 10.00 (However you cannot drive your motorcycle on the loop drive)
- Back country permit for 24 hours (hiking and camping) 12.00
What to bring with you
If you are planning to do a tour inside Monument Valley bring a mask, they are still mandatory here as of (July 2022) check ahead. I would still bring something to cover your face even if not as the road is very dusty. Water is another must as it is very dry in this area best to bring a hydration bag with you if you plan to hike around. Don’t forget your camera, this area is stunning and you will want to capture all of it.
If you are planning to drive yourself through Monument Valley, as I said before the roads are rough, so a road side kit would be a smart choice.
Best time to visit
Spring and fall are the best times to visit Monument Valley. The temperatures in the spring range from 63 to 73 degrees and the fall it could be anywhere between 66 and 80 degrees. The summer is hot and with not much shade temps are from 85 to 100 degrees. We were here in June and it was 97 that day. In the winter temperatures range from 40 to 50 degrees.
Come early in the morning to beat the crowds or enjoy the evening sunset. Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park is open in the summers from 6:00am to 7:00pm and in the winter from 8:00am to 5:00pm. The tours also run during this time.
Planning to be in Utah? Check out Arches National Park
What to see within the park
If you are planning to drive the park yourself here are some of the top spots to visit.
West and East Mitten and Merrick Butte, this is the iconic picture that everyone comes for.
- Three Sisters and John Ford’s Point – The three sisters represents a Catholic nun facing her two pupils. John Ford’s Point was named after the Hollywood director which made John Wayne famous. This is a great spot for photos.
- Elephant Butte – well the name pretty much explains it, a giant elephant facing west
- Camel Butte – also detailed name and it too faces west
- Rain God Mesa – this spot marks the center of the park, here is where the Navajo medicine men pray and give thanks for the rain
- Totem Pole – Most totem poles are made from wood, however this is an example of what erosion does to a butte
- The Thumb – a spire that stands alone, also looks like a cowboy boot
Where to stay
You can spend the night here camping. There are also hotels, even tipis that you stay in around Monument Valley.
Forrest Gump Point
I was super excited to visit Forrest Gump Point. If this doesn’t look familiar to you let me refresh your memory. Forrest goes on a run across the country and this is the point on his journey where he stops and says “I’m pretty tired, I think I’ll go home now”.
This portion of the movie really hits me. It reminds me of a quote, “not all those who wander are lost”. He is running, for no reason, with no destination, just running.
If you are a big fan of the movie this is a place that needs a visit.
Finding Forrest Gump Point
Forrest Gump Point is located on Highway 163 Scenic Drive, 13 miles from the welcome to Utah sign. It is in Mexican Hat County, just outside of Monument Valley. The exact point you can enter in your GPS is 37°06’09.5″N 109°59’21.1″W. I just set the spot in my google maps and looked for a bunch of cars parked on the road.
Best time to visit
If you can get there first thing in the morning you will get the monuments all lit up giving you a stunning background. We got here about 2pm and there were only 3 other cars there with us. We each gave the other cars time to get their pictures.
This is a highway and there are cars and trucks driving down this road at high speeds and you need to make sure you are paying attention. Do not think because it is an attraction that you have the right away.
These two places are such a great side stop and if you have the time I would suggest spending the night at Monument Valley and exploring the whole area. Take a tour of the park, I know I will be back to explore so more.
Have you been? What was your experience? Comment below.
Happy trails everyone!