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 Shot with Nikon D200 |
 Shot with Nikon D200 |
 Shot with Nikon D200 |
 Shot with Nikon D200 |
 Shot with Nikon D200 |
 Shot with Nikon D200 |
 Shot with Nikon D200 |
 Shot with Nikon D200 |
 Shot with Nikon D200 |
 Shot with Nikon D200 |
 Shot with Nikon D200 |
 Shot with Nikon D200 |
 Shot with Nikon D200 |
 Shot with Nikon D200 |
 Shot with Nikon D200 |
 Shot with Nikon D200 |
 Shot with Nikon D200 |
 Shot with Nikon D200 |
 Shot with Nikon D200 |
 Shot with Nikon D200 |
 Shot with Nikon D200 |
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| Lodging: |
We usually stay at the Hampton Inn in Kayenta, AZ. There are other motels in town but this is our choice. Not inexpensive (like most tourist area lodging) but breakfast is included and the rooms are clean and comfortable. Plus they have a restaurant on premises for dinner. Goulding's Lodge is currently the closest to the park and offers fantastic views, good dining and excellent off season rates. The Navajo Nation will be opening "The View" hotel in the park at a future date. Another option is to drive north over the San Juan river and stay in Mexican Hat. |
Meals: |
There is a restaurant/snack bar in the park which we have yet to eat at. There are numerous dining options in Kayenta or drive across the road to eat at Goulding's. For a burger fix there is a Burger King with a Navajo Code Talker exhibit and a Sonic in Kayenta.
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Sightseeing: |
Monument Valley offers ever changing vistas of almost spiritual beauty. Drive the 17 mile loop through the park at different times of the day to experience the way the changing light sets different moods on the rock formations. You must stay on the designated road which is pretty bumpy is some areas. Other options are the "shake & bake" open air jitney tours which leave from Goulding's or hire a Navajo guide to drive off road in their vehicle. Go out for a guided sunrise or sunset tour for an unforgettable experience. |
Good points: |
Gorgeous rock formations, photogenic free range animals (horses, sheep, goats) and peaceful hiking trails. There is a sense of peace and serenity here that I've never felt in any other park. You become a part of this place when you visit, you are not just viewing it from afar. |
Bad points: |
The public roads that loops through the park were really rough in areas when we last visited in July 2007. If you are stuck behind a timid driver on a busy day be patient. |
Transportation: |
We drove there. We drove through the park. We always drive. Everytime...everywhere. |
Comments: |
This is tribal land and you are there as a guest of the Navajo Nation. There are homes in the park so don't trespass in private areas. Show respect and don't photograph anyone without their permission. Offer a gratuity if permission is given.
Also remember that alcohol is not sold on the reservation, which includes Kayenta. The closest place to purchase beer is in Mexican Hat, UT. |
last update 11/28/07 - return home
comments or questions? email: info@eastofozroadtrips.com
You won't see anything if you don't get out and look... |
