My Photography & Travel Guide to Monument Valley, Utah

Welcome to Monument Valley, where the land tells stories through its stunning sandstone formations, and the skies paint a different picture every hour. Imagine a place so iconic that it feels like stepping into a classic Western movie scene. This is Monument Valley, a photographer’s paradise and a traveler's dream.

Monument Valley, located on the Arizona-Utah border, is one of the most photographed places in the world. Its dramatic landscape, with towering buttes and mesas, creates a surreal and awe-inspiring atmosphere. This Navajo Tribal Park is rich in history and culture, offering not just visual beauty but also a deep connection to Native American heritage.

Photographers should visit Monument Valley because it’s one of the most iconic, cinematic landscapes in the American Southwest—where towering sandstone buttes rise dramatically from the desert floor, glowing deep red and orange under the golden light of sunrise and sunset. This sacred Navajo land has a timeless, almost surreal beauty that feels like stepping into a living postcard—or a John Ford western.

Whether you're shooting the famous Mittens at dawn, capturing stars streaking across a desert sky, or exploring lesser-known backroads with a Navajo guide, Monument Valley offers a visual feast of textures, light, and shadow. It’s also a place to slow down, reflect, and connect more deeply with both nature and culture.

Forest Gump View

Photographers of all levels can find endless creative inspiration here—not just in the landscape, but in the powerful sense of place that lingers long after the last shot.

Where to Stay:

Staying close to the park entrance gives you easy access to the stunning vistas and hiking trails. Here are some top accommodations to consider:

Luxury Hotels:

1. The View Hotel - The View Hotel (My Recommendation)

   • Offering rooms with breathtaking views of Monument Valley, this hotel blends comfort with the beauty of the landscape.

2. Goulding’s Lodge - Goulding’s Lodge

   • A historic lodge with luxurious amenities, just a short drive from the park.

3. Bluff Dwellings Resort & Spa - Bluff Dwellings Resort

   • Located in the nearby town of Bluff, this resort offers a luxurious retreat with a touch of adventure.

Mid-Level Hotels:

1. Desert Rose Inn & Cabins - Desert Rose Inn

   • A charming hotel in Bluff with comfortable rooms and a friendly atmosphere.

2. Kayenta Monument Valley Inn - Kayenta Monument Valley Inn

   • A convenient and comfortable option located in the town of Kayenta, close to Monument Valley.

3. Wetherill Inn - Wetherill Inn

   • Another great option in Kayenta, offering cozy rooms and easy access to local attractions.

How Long to Stay

To fully experience Monument Valley, plan for a stay of 2-3 days. This allows you enough time to explore the park, capture stunning photos, and immerse yourself in the local culture.

Long Exposure

Best Time of Year to Visit

The best time to visit Monument Valley is from late spring to early fall (April to October). During these months, the weather is warm and pleasant, making it ideal for photography and outdoor activities. Early morning and late afternoon light provide the best conditions for capturing the valley’s vibrant colors.

Getting Around Monument Valley

The best way to get around Monument Valley is by car. Renting a vehicle gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace. Monument Valley does not have Uber, Bolt, or similar services, so having your own transportation is essential. Guided tours are also available and are highly recommended for first-time visitors.

Where to Eat:

Restaurants:

1. The View Restaurant - The View Restaurant

   • Located within The View Hotel, this restaurant offers stunning views along with delicious Navajo and American cuisine.

2. Goulding’s Stagecoach Dining Room - Stagecoach Dining Room

   • Enjoy hearty meals with a Southwestern twist at this historic lodge restaurant.

3. Blue Coffee Pot - Blue Coffee Pot

   • A local favorite in Kayenta, offering traditional Navajo dishes and American classics.

4. Amigo Café - Amigo Café

   • Known for its friendly service and tasty Mexican food in Kayenta.

5. Bluff Historic Fort Restaurant - Bluff Fort Restaurant

   • A charming eatery in Bluff serving a mix of Navajo and American dishes.

Coffee Shops:

1. Twin Rocks Café - Twin Rocks Café

   • Located in Bluff, this café offers great coffee and a cozy atmosphere.

2. Java Joe’s Coffeehouse - Java Joe’s Coffeehouse

   • A popular spot in Kayenta for a good cup of coffee and light snacks.

Photography Gear to Bring

For capturing the majestic beauty of Monument Valley, here are some essential photography gear recommendations:

• Camera Models:

  • Canon EOS R5

  • Sony A7R IV

  • Nikon Z7 II

• Lenses:

  • Wide-angle lens (16-35mm) for landscapes.

  • Standard zoom lens (24-70mm) for versatile shooting.

  • Telephoto lens (70-200mm) for capturing distant details.

• Other Gear:

  • Tripod for stability, especially during sunrise and sunset shots.

  • Polarizing filter to enhance colors and reduce glare.

  • ND filter for long exposure shots.

  • Extra batteries and memory cards for extended shooting sessions.

Best Photography Locations

1. The Mittens and Merrick Butte - The Mittens and Merrick Butte

   • Iconic sandstone formations perfect for sunrise and sunset shots.

2. John Ford’s Point - John Ford’s Point

   • Named after the famous film director, offering panoramic views of the valley.

3. Totem Pole and Yei Bi Chei - Totem Pole

   • Striking rock formations ideal for dramatic landscape photos.

4. Artist’s Point - Artist’s Point

   • Provides a stunning overlook of the valley’s vast landscape.

5. North Window - North Window

   • A natural frame for capturing the beauty of the valley.

Recommended photography tours

1. Monument Valley Safari

   • Description: Offers a variety of tours, including sunrise and sunset photography tours. Guides are experienced photographers and Navajo locals who provide insights into the best locations and times for capturing the valley’s beauty.

   • Website: Monument Valley Safari

2. Navajo Spirit Tours

   • Description: Provides private and group tours focused on photography. The guides are Navajo and share their deep knowledge of the land and culture, taking you to both iconic and lesser-known spots.

   • Website: Navajo Spirit Tours

3. Phillips Photography Tours

   • Description: Specializes in photography tours of Monument Valley and the surrounding areas. The tours are led by a professional photographer who offers tips and techniques for capturing the best shots.

   • Website: Phillips Photography Tours

4. Monument Valley Photo Tours

   • Description: Run by professional photographers and local Navajo guides, this tour service offers personalized photography tours, helping you get the perfect shots while learning about the valley’s history and culture.

   • Website: Monument Valley Photo Tours

These tours will not only enhance your photography skills but also give you a deeper understanding of the cultural and natural significance of Monument Valley.

Special Festivals and Holidays

• Navajo Nation Fair (September) - Held in nearby Window Rock, this is the largest Native American fair in the country, showcasing Navajo culture, music, and dance.

• Monument Valley Hot Air Balloon Festival (January) - Watch as colorful balloons rise over the stunning landscape of Monument Valley.

Wrapping up

If you enjoyed this guide to Monument Valley, you can check out my other Photography and Travel Guides at this link. Don’t forget to subscribe to my newsletter for more travel tips and photography inspiration!

Monument Valley is a destination that will leave you in awe and your camera brimming with stunning shots. Pack your bags, charge your batteries, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in this iconic landscape!