All About the Road to Monument Valley

The Road to Monument Valley isn’t just a way to get there—it’s part of the adventure. Winding through the heart of the Colorado Plateau, this route passes ancient rock art, dramatic overlooks, and wide-open desert that feels untouched by time. You’ll descend the hair-raising Moki Dugway, gaze out from Muley Point, marvel at the meanders of Goosenecks State Park, and trace the footsteps of ancient cultures at places like the Sand Island Petroglyphs. And just when you think the landscape can’t get any more cinematic—there, on the horizon, rises Monument Valley.

Start Planning! 

You’re about to go on an epic adventure down the Road to Monument Valley! Here’s what you need to know before you go. 

• There are three tour starting points:
  • The southbound directions start either from Bear’s Ears or Bluff, Utah.
    • Bears Ears National Monument, Utah - On Highway 261, just south of the junction with Utah State Route 95.
    • Bluff, Utah - On the western edge of the town of Bluff.
  • The northbound direction starts just outside of Kayenta.
    • Kayenta, Arizona- On the northern edge of the town of Kayenta.

Writer's Note: I recommend starting from either Bears Ears or Bluff and traveling southbound—that way, you’ll end your journey with the grand finale: Monument Valley. Trust me, it’s worth saving the best bits for last!

Quick Tips

• The tour takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes of drive time, plus 4+ hours for stops.
• The tour goes north to south and south to north.
• The roads are often rough, bumpy, remote dirt roads.
• There is often no cell service. 
• No reservations are needed, but they might be helpful in Monument Valley, especially during the busy summer season.
• Remember: there's "The Road To" and "The Monument Valley Tribal Park Tour!" For more information, check out our itinerary and Know-Before-You-Go articles. And, don't forget to bundle the two to save!

Budgeting and Hours of Operation 

Adam Kampe

Budget

Overall budget can vary, but in general, expect a relatively affordable trip, especially if you keep things simple.

Entrance Fees and Tickets

• Gooseneck State Park
  • $5 per car
  • $2 per person, commercial tour bus or tour group
  • $10 per night for camping
• Monument Valley: $8  per person
• Day Hike Fees: $5 per person
• Cash for roadside souvenirs

Food

Bluff, UT: 

• Sit-down meals: $15–$25 per person (Try Comb Ridge Bistro or Twin Rocks Cafe)
• Grab-and-go coffee or breakfast: $5–$10

Mexican Hat, UT:

• Family diners or local cafes: $10–$20 per person (Mexican Hat Lodge Swingin’ Steak is a popular stop)
• Snacks or basic groceries: $3–$10

Kayenta, AZ:

• Chain restaurants (Burger King, Pizza Edge, etc.): $10–$15
• Navajo food stands or local diners: $8–$18 (Navajo tacos are a must-try!)

Lodging

Bluff, UT:

• Hotels/motels: $120–$200 per night
• Casitas/B&Bs: $150–$250+
• Campgrounds: $15–$30 per night

Mexican Hat, UT:

• Basic motels: $80–$150 per night
• Rustic cabins or lodges: $120–$180
• Limited availability, so book early

Kayenta, AZ:

• Chain hotels (Hampton Inn, Wetherill Inn): $130–$200+
• Campgrounds and RV sites: limited but available nearby

Hours of Operation 

This tour is more than just a drive—it’s a journey to Monument Valley, with meaningful stops along the way. From ranger stations to scenic overlooks and cultural centers, each stop has its own hours and seasonal quirks. Here's a quick guide to help you plan your timing:

• Kane Gulch Ranger Station: open in the
  • Spring (March 1 – June 15) from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. every day
  • Fall (Sept. 1 – Oct. 31) from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. every day
  • Summer and Winter: call Monticello Field Office
• Goosenecks State Park: 24/7
• Navajo Welcome Center: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
• Monument Valley Park: typically 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
• Monument Valley Scenic Drives: 
  • Winter: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
  • Summer: 7:00 am - 7:00 pm

Get Packing!

If you're just driving and not planning to hike, you won’t need a full gear list—but it’s still smart to be prepared. This is remote country with long distances between services, changing weather, and plenty of sun. Here are a few essentials to help you get started:

• Car charger
• Phone Mount
• Water bottles/ lots of water
• Sunscreen
• Hat
• Spare tire advised
• 4-WD vehicle advised for some stops

Best Time to Visit 

Rachel Ennis

Any time of year can be a great time to take the Road to Monument Valley Tour—but the conditions matter. This is high desert country, so weather can shift fast, and remote roads don’t always bounce back quickly after storms.

The Moki Dugway, in particular, is steep, unpaved, and should never be driven in snowy or icy conditions. Even after heavy rains, this road and others in the area (like parts of Valley of the Gods or Muley Point Road) may become slick, rutted, or impassable—especially for low-clearance vehicles.

• Spring (March–May): Mild temps, blooming wildflowers, and fewer crowds—often the best time to visit.
• Summer (June–August): Hot and dry, but longer daylight hours and full access to park facilities.
• Fall (September–October): Crisp air, great visibility, and thinner crowds.
• Winter (November–February): Quiet, beautiful, and peaceful—but be prepared for snow, road closures, and shorter hours.

Always check local conditions before you head out—especially if you're driving unpaved roads.

Safety Information 

While exploring, we encourage you to follow Leave No Trace principles—respect wildlife habitats, stay on designated paths, minimize your impact, and carry out what you bring in. By doing so, you help preserve the beauty and integrity of these landscapes for future generations.

Additionally, much of this tour takes place within the Navajo Nation, where tribal law applies alongside federal and state regulations. Please respect all signage, stay out of restricted areas, and remember that many sites are sacred to the Diné people. Your awareness and courtesy help ensure that these places remain protected—and that visitors remain welcome.

Leave No Trace 

Rachel Ennis

While exploring, we encourage you to abide by the leave-no-trace principles. Embrace the outdoors responsibly with our commitment to preserving natural wonders. 

Respect wildlife habitats, minimize your footprint, and carry out memories, not waste. By following Leave No Trace principles, you contribute to the longevity and beauty of our planet's most stunning landscapes.

Meet the Writer: Rachel Ennis is a storyteller, nature nerd, and park enthusiast who believes every trail has a tale. Before venturing to the far corners of Utah, she knew the sweeping red vistas of the Navajo Nation would steal her heart—but what truly surprised her was how deeply they stayed with her. It’s more than just the views; it’s the vast silence and open space, rich with histories patiently waiting to be shared. Today, she’s continuing on her mission to share the stories that live in the land and the spaces that make us feel small in the best way.

Ready to take the tour? Check out Shaka Guide's The Road to Monument Valley Tour!

We hope that we’ve given you all the information you need to make the most of your day. Your vacation is extremely important to us so if you have any questions feel free to reach out at aloha@shakaguide.com.

For more detailed information to help you plan, check out our The Road to Monument Valley Itinerary.

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