Monument Valley was our second stop on our epic southwest road trip through Utah, Arizona and onto Southern California. The drive from Moab to Monument Valley is just under three hours via US-191S and US-163S. On the way you will pass beautiful Wilson Arch and Mexican Hat Rock. We enjoyed Navajo Tacos at Twin Rocks Cafe in Bluff, Utah. If you are pulling an RV, like we were, there is plenty of parking for your rig. Don't forget to stop at Mile Marker 13 to snap a picture of the spot where Forrest Gump stopped his run, in the movie of the same name. So you can get that perfect shot, pull-outs are available on both sides of the road. Don't forget to look for traffic before stepping out!
Our camping reservations were at the Monument Valley KOA, at Milepost 2 on US-163. This KOA is in a beautiful scenic setting and is rather new. The gravel sites are long enough for any RV but the young trees do not offer any shade. Bathrooms, showers and the laundry room are very nice and modern, and the manager was very friendly and accommodating. The campground owners offer homemade dinners, for purchase, delivered right to your site. YUM!
During our visit Monument Valley Tribal Park was unfortunately closed due to Covid. But, that did not stop us from enjoying our time in the area. With some suggestions from the manager we were off on adventure!
Goosenecks State Park, 29 miles north of Monument Valley, sits on the edge of a canyon overlooking the San Juan River below. This small State Park offers impressive views of two deeply cut river bends and is similar to Horseshoe Bend near Page, Arizona. There is a $5 entry fee per vehicle. The park has 8 campsites along the rim; pit toilets are available but there is no running water. Goosenecks is open year round but check the weather and plan accordingly as the park offers no shade, and can get unbearably hot in the summer.
As you exit Goosenecks State Park turn left on US-261 to Valley of the Gods. This 16 mile firmly packed dirt and stone road meanders through the valley. Valley of the Gods has striking sandstone monoliths, buttes, and pinnacles similar to Monument Valley Tribal Park. Because Valley of the Gods is not on Navajo land there is no fee to enter and it is not subject to closure.
The road through the valley is passable with the family sedan, just take it slow. During wet weather a high clearance 4x4 is recommended. Due to this area being backcountry, make sure you bring water and snacks along.
The road through Valley of the Gods will rejoin US-163. From there, head north on US-163 for approximately 15 miles to Sand Island Petroglyphs. This roadside park contains centuries old panels of Pueblo, Ute and Navajo rock art that are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Please remember that this is a special place: honor the ancient ones by not touching the rock art. If you would like a challenge, try finding the sheep playing a flute on the panel.
As we returned to our campsite we were blessed with brilliant colors, as the sun set behind the butte.
Enjoy our video of Monument Valley and the surrounding attractions!
ADVENTURE ON
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