The vast landscape of Monument Valley sprawls across the Utah/Arizona border within the Navajo Nation. The towering buttes and imposing mesas boast an unworldly beauty and you’ll feel as if you’re on another planet.
If Monument Valley is on your Southwest road trip itinerary, then keep reading to discover the best tips for visiting Monument Valley!
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A Complete Guide to Visiting Monument Valley
Best place to stay in Monument Valley
Many visitors opt to make Monument Valley a day trip, but to truly make the most of your experience I would highly recommend spending the night.
The View Cabins at Monument Valley
The View Hotel and Cabins are the only lodging accommodations located inside the Monument Valley Tribal Park.
The View Hotel offers traditional hotel rooms overlooking Monument Valley.
However, for the best views and a more intimate experience, I highly recommend booking The View Premium Cabins.
The cabins are perched on the rim with unparalleled views of the valley.
It is honestly one of the most beautiful places we’ve ever stayed and my best tip for visiting Monument Valley!
There really is nothing quite like waking up to the sun peeking over The Mittens.
There are two rows of cabins, the cabins in front are considered “Premium View Cabins” and cost a little more.
It is well worth the additional charge to have unobstructed views without any cabins in front of you.
Each cabin has a queen bed and a set of bunk beds. The executive cabins also offer an additional living room with a single pull-out sofa bed.
The cabins are cozy and basic but provide all the necessary amenities including a full bath, refrigerator, microwave, heating, and cooling.
However, the crowning feature is having Monument Valley right at your doorstep.
Only cabin guests are allowed to enter this area of the park, so it feels as if you have the entire valley to yourself.
You’ll be able to explore the landscape long after the park has closed to outside guests and experience it in a way that most people don’t get a chance to do.
There really is nothing quite like experiencing the tranquility of the setting sun reflecting off the monoliths, the sun rising over the mesas, or the coal-black sky twinkling with a sea of stars.
If you’re looking for more unique places to stay in Utah, check out Whispering Pines glamping and the Goblin Valley yurts!
Other places to stay at Monument Valley
The View Cabins book up far in advance, so here are a few more options if you are unable to make a reservation:
- The View Hotel: The View Hotel offers basic guest rooms with spectacular views of Monument Valley.
- The View Campground: The View Campground is also located within the Monument Valley Tribal Park. It offers RV and tent sites with unparalleled views.
- Goulding’s Lodge: Goulding’s Lodge is a historic hotel and campground located about 2.5 miles outside of Monument Valley. In the 1930s, Harry Goulding introduced director John Ford to the beauty of Monument Valley and solidified its star on the Hollywood map. For the best deal, also check Hotels.com and Expedia.
- Kayenta Monument Valley Inn: Kayenta is about 30 minutes outside of Monument Valley. This hotel is affordable and conveniently located near stores and restaurants. Compare rates on Expedia, Booking.com, and Kayak.
- Bluff Dwellings Resort & Spa: Bluff is located about an hour north of Monument Valley and is home to one of the most beautiful resorts in Utah. Definitely add it as a stop on your road trip!