Travel Eye on Monument Valley (Utah, USA)

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Overview:

The towering red sandstone monoliths of Monument Valley are a well known sight, having been used as the backdrop for countless movies and television commercials. Thanks to such Hollywood classics as Stagecoach, starring John Wayne, the spectacular desert scenery of this remote location has become the definition of the American West.

However, these dramatic images only hint at the full grandeur and isolation of Monument Valley. The scale of this country is best experienced in person, as evidenced by the travelers from around the world who seek out this distant corner of Arizona.

Thankfully, there is now an easier way of exploring Monument Valley than by dusty stagecoach. This vast landscape is an ideal destination for the aerial adventurer.

Monument Valley is oriented roughly north-south. The southern end contains delicate rock formations and slender spires that clearly don't believe in gravity. Heavily eroded sandstone bluffs are deeply carved with serpentine slot canyons, occasionally punctuated by a massive stone arch.

Farther north, the red sandstone monuments become more imposing, growing wider and taller as the valley floor slowly drops away.

Locality:

Monument Valley lies entirely within the Navajo Indian Reservation on the Utah/Arizona border near the southeastern corner of Utah. The state line passes through the most famous landmarks, which are concentrated near the small town of Goulding.

Entertainment/Facilities/Attractions/Things to do:

Navajo Cultural Center - The center is located in Kayenta has exhibits on the tribe's history, traditions and religious beliefs, replicas of a shade house, hogans and a sweatlodge and native arts and crafts. Ceremonial dancers perform occasionally. Kayenta is 24 miles south of Monument Valley on U.S.

El Capitan - This ancient volcano was nicknamed by Col. Kit Carson, who led the U.S. Calvary's conquest of the Navajos in 1863-64. It's also known Agathla Peak. Located just off U.S. 163 about 20 miles south of Monument Valley.

Goosenecks State Park - The park has an overlook with views the San Juan River 1,000 feet below as it meanders through the salt and shale Hermosa Formation. The river winds five miles through the Goosenecks of the San Juan in order to get a mile closer to Lake Powell.

Navajo National Monument - Navajo National Monument features the Mesa Verde-like ruins of two ancient Indian villages nestled into alcoves in red rock canyons.