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Home / Travel Destination / A ROUTE 66 DETOUR TRAVEL GUIDE TO MONUMENT VALLEY

A ROUTE 66 DETOUR TRAVEL GUIDE TO MONUMENT VALLEY

Monument Valley

Alright folks, Big Mike here, ready to take you on an unforgettable detour from our Route 66 journey! We’re setting our sights on Monument Valley, a place so breathtaking, it’ll leave you speechless. Imagine towering sandstone buttes and mesas rising up from the desert floor, a landscape that’s been sculpted by centuries of wind and rain. This is Monument Valley, a land of stark beauty and rich Navajo culture. It’s a bit off the beaten path from Route 66, but trust me, this detour is worth every mile! You’ll feel like you’ve stepped right into a classic Western movie, and you’ll get to experience the magic of the Navajo Nation’s heritage. So buckle up, because we’re in for a real treat!

The Untold Stories of Monument Valley and the Navajo People.

Want to experience the magic of Monument Valley? Check out the video above for a guided tour and breathtaking views!

Forrest Gump Point

Now, movie buffs, listen up! Route 163 ain’t just a pretty face – it’s got a claim to fame that’ll have you saying, “Run, Forrest, run!” Remember that iconic scene in Forrest Gump where he finally stops running? After all those miles, he just throws his arms up and says he’s tired and going home. Well, that scene was filmed right here on this very road, at a spot now affectionately known as Forrest Gump Point.

Folks from all over the world come to stand in Forrest’s footsteps, snap a selfie with that breathtaking backdrop, and soak in the same views that made him decide to call it a day. It’s a must-do for any fan of the film, and a pretty darn good excuse to stretch your legs and take in the scenery, even if you haven’t been running across America! You’ll find it around mile marker 13, so keep your eyes peeled. And hey, if you do decide to recreate the scene, just remember – life is like a box of chocolates, you never know what you’re gonna get!

VIEWS FROM GOULDING’S LODGE

Goulding’s Lodge is a must-see for any Route 66 traveler interested in Hollywood history and the charm of the Old West. This isn’t just any lodge – it’s a place where legends were made! And it’s a fantastic place to stay, offering comfortable accommodations and stunning views of Monument Valley.

Back in the day, the famous director John Ford fell in love with this location and used it as the backdrop for some of his most iconic films, including “Stagecoach” starring John Wayne.

Speaking of the Duke, you can step right into a piece of movie history at Goulding’s Lodge! They have a replica of “John Wayne’s Cabin” from the movie “She Wore a Yellow Ribbon,” giving you a glimpse into the magic of movie-making. They also have a collection of movie memorabilia throughout the property, with photos and artifacts that capture the spirit of classic Westerns.

So, come experience a piece of Hollywood history at Goulding’s Lodge in Monument Valley.

Monument Valley Majesty - A Scenic Journey Into The Navajo Nation

Want to experience the Beauty of Monument Valley set to music? Check out the video above for a breathtaking visual journey!

A View of the Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park

Get ready to have your breath taken away, folks! As you approach the Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park, the first glimpse of those iconic buttes and mesas rising up from the desert floor is a sight you won’t soon forget. It’s like the earth itself decided to put on a show, with towering rock formations sculpted by centuries of wind and rain. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped right into a classic Western movie, or maybe even onto another planet. This is Monument Valley, a land of stark beauty and dramatic landscapes that will leave you awestruck. Don’t forget your camera, because you’ll want to capture this moment forever!

West Mitten Butte in Monument Valley

Now, get ready to be wowed by the West Mitten Butte, a real showstopper in Monument Valley! This towering beauty reaches a height of 6,176 feet and holds a special place in Navajo culture. They call it “Etsáántee,” which means “The First Woman,” and believe she watches over the valley. Remember, climbing on these formations is a no-no, so let’s keep our feet on the ground and admire her from afar. Trust me, the view is worth it!

East Mitten Butte in Monument Valley

Now, feast your eyes on the magnificent East Mitten Butte, standing tall and proud at approximately 6,158 feet! This majestic beauty, sometimes referred to as “Gishalyaa” (“The Left Hand” or “South Mitten”) in Navajo, is a sight to behold. Remember folks, these buttes are sacred to the Navajo Nation, and we gotta respect their traditions and beliefs. So, admire these majestic formations from afar and let their stories and beauty fill your heart.

Merrick Butte in Monument Valley

Now, let’s talk about Merrick Butte, a towering giant that holds its own among the iconic landmarks of Monument Valley. Standing tall at 6,206 feet, it’s actually the highest point in the valley! This massive sandstone butte is a sight to behold, with its rugged cliffs and unique shape that changes with the light throughout the day. While it might not have a catchy nickname like the Mittens, Merrick Butte is truly impressive and a must-see for any visitor to Monument Valley. So, take a moment to appreciate this majestic giant and let its presence inspire you.

Elephant Butte in Monument Valley

While you’re exploring Monument Valley, keep your eyes peeled for the many fascinating rock formations that dot the landscape. You might spot one that looks like a giant elephant!

Three Sister in Monument Valley

Now, gather ’round and let me tell you about the Three Sisters, a captivating trio of rock formations that’ll leave you spellbound. These towering sandstone spires stand shoulder-to-shoulder, like gossiping giants sharing secrets of the ancient desert. The Three Sisters are a testament to the power of erosion and the artistry of nature. They’re a must-see for any visitor to Monument Valley, and they’re sure to spark your imagination and leave you wondering what stories these silent sisters could tell if they could speak.

John Ford Point in Monument Valley

Now, saddle up and head on over to John Ford’s Point, a spot that’ll make you feel like you’ve stepped right into a classic Western film. Named after the legendary director who made Monument Valley a star, this viewpoint offers a panoramic vista that’ll take your breath away. 1 It’s no wonder John Ford chose this spot to film some of his most iconic scenes, with those towering buttes and mesas serving as the perfect backdrop for movies like “Stagecoach,” “The Searchers,” and “She Wore a Yellow Ribbon,” all starring the Duke himself, John Wayne. So, mosey on over to John Ford’s Point, soak in the scenery, and imagine yourself as a gunslinger in one of those classic Westerns.

Totem Pole and Sand Spring

Now, prepare to be amazed by the Totem Pole, a towering spire that stands as a testament to the forces of erosion and the beauty of nature’s artistry. This slender sandstone pillar, reaching a height of 450 feet, seems to defy gravity as it rises from the valley floor. Located near Sand Spring, a natural oasis in the desert, the Totem Pole is a sacred site for the Navajo people and a popular destination for photographers and adventurers alike. So, take a moment to appreciate this unique landmark and let its presence inspire you.

Sleeping Dragon in Monument Valley

Keep your eyes peeled for the Sleeping Dragon, a whimsical rock formation that adds a touch of magic to the Monument Valley landscape. This natural wonder, formed by centuries of erosion, truly resembles a slumbering dragon, its spiny back rising against the horizon. It’s a testament to the power of imagination and the beauty of nature’s artistry.

EAGLE EYE CAVE IN MONUMENT VALLEY

And finally, folks, we reach the grand finale of our Monument Valley adventure: Eagle Eye Cave. This hidden gem, tucked away among the towering cliffs, offers a unique perspective on the valley’s beauty. Be sure to look up and marvel at the “eagle eye” itself – a hole in the ceiling of the cave that lets in a beam of sunlight, illuminating the space with an ethereal glow. But the real magic happens at the end of the tour, when our Navajo guides treat us to a special performance. With the haunting melody of the flute and the rhythmic beat of the drums, they share a traditional Navajo song that echoes through the canyons, leaving us with a sense of awe and wonder. It’s a truly unforgettable experience that connects us to the spirit of this ancient land and its

MONUMENT VALLEY REFLECTED IN THE WATER

And to top off our Monument Valley adventure, we captured some truly breathtaking images. One of our favorites is a photo of Monument Valley reflected in a still pool of water, creating a surreal and almost dreamlike scene. It’s a reminder of the magic and mystery that surrounds this iconic landscape.

A HORSE IN MONUMENT VALLEY

And as if Monument Valley wanted to give us one last unforgettable memory, we encountered a beautiful horse as we were leaving the park, the iconic buttes and mesas serving as its backdrop. It was the perfect way to end our day, a reminder of the beauty, wonder, and spirit of the American West.

Local Attractions to see in Monument Valley

  1. John Wayne’s Cabin
  2. Forrest Gump Point Monument Valley
  3. Goulding’s Lodge
  4. Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park
  5. The View Hotel

Directions

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Videos

The Untold Stories of Monument Valley and the Navajo People.
Discover the cultural richness and natural wonders of Monument Valley with this captivating video jo... Read More
Monument Valley Majesty - A Scenic Journey Into The Navajo Nation
Relax and unwind with this ASMR-inspired road trip through Monument Valley. Let the stunning visuals... Read More

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