Our Day Trip from Goosenecks State Park
On our first full day exploring Southeastern Utah, we crossed the state line into Arizona to visit Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park. From our base camp at Goosenecks State Park, the drive took just 45 minutes—an easy and scenic route.
When planning our trip, we initially considered taking a guided tour. However, due to budget constraints, we looked into self-guided options instead. It’s important to note that Monument Valley regulations prohibit visitors from leaving their vehicles on the scenic drive to hike around iconic formations like the Mittens—unless accompanied by a Navajo guide or holding a permit..
Thankfully, we discovered that one trail is open to the public without a guide: the Wildcat Trail, a must-do if you’re exploring the area on a budget or prefer hiking at your own pace.
Located within the vast lands of the Navajo Nation, Monument Valley spans the northeastern corner of Arizona and reaches into parts of Utah and New Mexico. Covering over 17 million acres, this region features dramatic desert landscapes, towering red rock buttes, high-elevation meadows, and endless blue skies.
This area is often considered the quintessential image of the American Southwest. The towering Mittens—buttes resembling giant gloves—are among the most recognizable landmarks in the United States. Monument Valley has served as the backdrop for countless classic Western films and photography.
History and Preservation
In the mid-20th century, Navajo leaders acknowledged the need to preserve their ancestral lands for cultural, spiritual, and environmental reasons. In response, the Navajo Parks and Recreation Department was established in 1964. Today, the department manages Monument Valley, balancing tourism with preservation and the growth of the local Navajo population.
Their mission is not only to protect this sacred land but also to provide economic opportunities and enhance cultural awareness for both visitors and Native communities.
Driving the Monument Valley Scenic Loop
One of the most popular ways to experience the park is by driving the 17-mile scenic drive which winds past some of Monument Valley’s most iconic formations. Starting from the Visitor Center, this dirt road includes 11 marked stops, each offering incredible views and photo opportunities.
Expect the drive to take anywhere from 2 to 4 hours, depending on how many stops you make. The speed limit is just 15 MPH, and the road is quite bumpy in sections. Despite that, our Honda Accord handled the route just fine. However, RVs and very low-clearance vehicles should avoid attempting the drive.
For the best experience, arrive early in the morning. During the summer, traffic can become heavy, turning the loop into a slow crawl under the desert sun.
Directions
From Mexican Hat, Utah, drive south on HWY 163. About 13 miles north of the AZ/UT State line is the famous “Forest Gump Hill” where Forest Gump stopped running and decided to return home to Alabama and his love, Jenny. This road is a great “hop out of your car and get a photo” moment. At mile 20, you will turn left onto Monument Valley Rd and follow it for another 3.3 miles to the fee station.
FAQs
Is there a Visitor Center? What are the hours?
Yes. Hours vary by season
Peak Season (May 1 – Sept 30) 6am-8pm
Off Season (Oct 1- April 30) 8am-5pm
Thanksgiving Day 8am-12pm
Closed New Years & Christmas Day
All hours are 7 days a week
Is there a fee to enter?
Yes it is $20/car for 4 people, and $6/additional person.
National Park Passes & Golden Eagle Passes are not accepted.
Is there any lodging nearby?
You can camp or stay in a room at TheView Hotel right in Monument Valley. Reserve a spot at least 3-4 months in advance.
Other options nearby:
Hotels: Hampton Inn at Kayenta, 30 min South
Camping: Goosenecks State Park, 45 min NW
Is this park dog friendly?
No, dogs are not allowed. Although you may see many locals dogs, visiting dogs are not allowed.
Is this park kid friendly?
Yes!
What activities are available?
Hiking the Wildcat Trail (see info below)
17 mile Scenic Drive
Horseback Tours
Guided Driving Tours
A quick stop at “Forest Gump Hill”. This area is not signed, just pull over by one of the road-side jewelry stands about 13 miles south of Mexican Hat, UT.
Monument Valley Visitor Center. There are restrooms, parking for about 200 cars, snacks, maps, information, a gift shop, and a fantastic overlook for the valley.
Overlooking Monument Valley from the Visitor Center.
Our first item on our to-do list was to hike Wildcat Trail. A flat, 4 mile (round trip) hike that wraps around West Mitten Butte. Though Monument Valley is not a renowned hiking destination, I highly recommend to take this trail on your visit. Not only is it the only trail the Navajo allow the public to hike, but offers fantastic views of the area. Start by parking in the main lot, and walk down the dirt road to where the Scenic Drive starts. Just to the left is the signed trailhead.
HIking the Wildcat Trail
The official Wildcat Trailhead.
You can see that this trail is entirely exposed to all elements – sun, wind, sand, and no water. Be prepared to hike at least 2 hours and bring along sunblock and a minimum of 3 liters of water.
The hike starts out by heading North. The trail is well defined and well marked.
At 0.7 miles, the trail splits. You can go right or left – we chose to veer Right and wrap around the south side of the Mitten.
Jumping for joy at what a beautiful day it was. I was so happy to be hiking under deep blue skies and warmer temperatures.
Heading in a more Easterly direction with views of Merrick Butte and East Mitten Butte.
Looking at the Mitten, almost straight on.
Taking it all in!
The trail follow the road for about 40 yards, then turns North again.
An interesting structure along the trail.
Snack and photo break!
Continue following the signs, until you make a loop and arrive back at the TH that you started at.
Here’s a map looking North. You can see the trail starts by the Visitor Center, down the road just a little.
Map view looking East.
After our hike and another snack break, we loaded into the Honda Accord and took the Scenic Drive. The drive took us about 1.5 hours to complete. We only got out of the car maybe three times to take photos. Remember that hiking is not allowed outside of your car and pull-outs at any time.
One of the best pull-outs in my opinion, was Artists Point. The view of the vast landscape ahead was breathtaking, against this large spire. There is one picnic table available, but no shade. No restrooms are along the scenic drive.
Artists Point Overlook
Stay tuned for our adventures on Day 2 to Natural Bridges National Monument!
For a FANTASTIC video our all of our adventures from this trip, click here! Video by KatieWanders.com.
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