Kane Gulch Ranger Station

To learn more about the history and rock formations of Bears Ears National Monument, visit the Kane Gulch Ranger station. There, you’ll find exhibits, hiking information, and friendly rangers to guide you on your adventure.

The first of two lookouts with views that stretch across the San Juan Cliffs, and out to Monument Valley.

While you’re lookin’ across the San Juan Valley, see if you can spot John’s Canyon Road, down at the bottom of the cliffs. On a clear day, you might also see Monument Valley’s iconic buttes and mesas, way out in the distance.

Moki Dugway

The Moki Dugway road can be quite dangerous, but it's also gorgeous. It’s a three mile stretch of road that serpentines down twelve-hundred feet of cliffside, through a series of sharp switchbacks. If that doesn’t sound scary enough, it’s also pretty steep, with a grade of 11 percent. And to top it all off, the road is unpaved, and has no guardrails. But, there are several veiwpoints along the way where you can admire the road and the surrounding vistas.

This view from Moki Dugway looks out at the vast expanses and towering monoliths of the Valley of the Gods.

Valley of the Gods

Sometimes nicknamed "mini Monument Valley," there's nothing mini about this experience. Big, grand red sandstone monuments stretch as far as the eye can see on this rough and bumpy dirt road. The western entrance exits on the other side of the tour near Bluff. The eastern entrance exits just under the Moki Dugway.

Goosenecks State Park

This small state park features a short paved drive to the goosenecking San Juan River overlook, and then a long, bumpy dirt road off into adventure. A small fee is required.

Sand Island Petroglyphs

This landmark and recreation area features Native American rock art ranging from 300 to 3,000 years old.

This great rincon is a massive butte set inside a now-dry oxbow lake. The dirt road down is bumpy, and a 4-WD vehicle s recommended.

Mexican Hat Rock Formation

Just like the name implies, this big red rock looks like an upside down sombrero. While you can see it from the road, pulling in lets visitors hike and scramble their way to the top.

Mexican Hat

This small town, just south of the memorable Mexican Hat Rock, is a great stopover for hungry travelers, curious visitors, and anyone wanting to stretch their legs by the San Juan River.

Forrest Gump Point

"I'm pretty tired. Think I'll go home now." This unforgettable movie scene was filmed in a place every bit as extraordinary as the blockbuster film itself. This quick roadside pullover is a huge hit with tourists, and is totally free!

This is the famous "hanging arch" from the iconic film "Once Upon a Time in the West." While most of it has fallen, the base is still intact and it could be a worthwhile stop for film enthusiasts.

Monument Valley

This roadside pullover offers great views of the northeastern red rock features of Monument Valley.

Even if you aren't entering the Monument Valley Tribal Park, this beautiful stretch of road offers glimpses of monuments such as The King on His Throne, the Stagecoach, and Brighams Tomb.

Goulding's Lodge and Trading Post is an iconic piece of history. Stop in to grab a bite, stay the night, or learn about some Navajo and film history at the museum.

The Navajo Welcome Center is a great stop to refresh yourself, learn about local tours, and, of course, pick up some great handcrafted souveniers. This is also where you can switch over to your Monument Valley Shaka Guide Tour, if you've purchased it.

Monument Valley

Monument Valley rose to superstardom with John Ford's classic western, "Stagecoach." Today, Monument Valley’s idyllic towers, buttes, and mesas have become nearly synonymous with the American west.

This is a great chance to pick up your own artisinal Navajo souvenir, like a woolen rug, silver jewelry, or authentic leatherworks.

The Navajo Nation Welcome Center is a great first stop. There's a lot of information on the area, as well as restrooms, crafts for sale, and a restaurant.

Navajo National Monument

This statue is a quick photo-op on your way into the park.

Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park

With park personnel ready to answer all your questions, plus a gift shop, cafe, and many informative exhibits this is a great way to start your drive through the valley. The viewpoint from the center is also a great place for a photo, and overlooks the first portion of the drive, including the two Mittens formations.

Lee Cly Trail

This is one of two hikes that can be taken without a guide in Monument Valley. Lee Cly Trail is only two miles long; and it starts south of The View Lodge, then loops around near Mitchell Butte.

Wildcat Trail

Wildcat is an easy four-mile round trip hike that loops around the West Mitten Butte, and has excellent views of the East Mitten, and Merrick Butte.

West And East Mitten Buttes

The first major viewpoint along your Monument Valley Drive. From here, you can see the large Merrick butte as well as the two mitten twins. This stop sometimes has Navajo vendors selling local crafts.

Another great view of the front features of Monument Valley, especially the wide Mitchell Mesa.

This overlook looks out at one of the best features in the park. The three pillars of the sisters is said to look like nuns in their habits.

John Ford’s Point

John Ford Point is the number one stop in the park. The panorama from the ledge was often used by director John Ford in his western films. If you're feeling adventurous, hop up on a horse for a christmas card worthy photo.

Feelin' a little hungry on your adventure? Then swing by Linda's Frybread Stand for a fanstastic fried treat. Try it with salt and honey!

The Hub Point

Hub Point offers views of the wagon-wheel like hub, and a look out to Mystery Valley--the back area of Monument Valley only accessible by a guided tour.

Totem Pole And Yei Be Chei

This viewpoint overlooks several great pillars. Yei Bi Chei is said to resemble masked Navajo dancers, and Totem Pole is one of the tallest free-standing spires in the world.

The Cube looks so unusual, you'd think it has to be man-made. But no! This cubic sandstone feature was made by mother nature's handiwork, and fractured into perfectly straight lines.

Artist’s Point

Astist's Point is one of the more famous overlooks in the park. The view of flat desert landscapes is broken by jutting rock features such as the distinctive King-On-His-Throne.

The Thumb

The Thumb is just what it sounds like--a quirky little rock feature shaped like a thumb! There's also great views of camel and elephant butte.

North Window Overlook

Another crowd favorite, this overlook looks out at the front of the valley, and is one of the most photographed spots in the tribal park.