Ancient History

Monument Valley, straddling the Arizona-Utah border, is a sacred and iconic landscape deeply rooted in Native American history, particularly that of the Navajo Nation. The towering sandstone buttes and vast desert plains have been home to the Navajo people for centuries, and the area remains under their stewardship today. 

Monument Valley
Monument Valley
Monument Valley

Geology

The geology of Monument Valley is a stunning showcase of sedimentary rock formations shaped over hundreds of millions of years. The valley's iconic buttes, mesas, and spires are primarily composed of three main rock layers: Organ Rock Shale; De Chelly Sandstone; Moenkopi and Shinarump Formations


Monument Valley
Monument Valley

Tourism

The area gained fame through classic Western films by director John Ford, and has since appeared in many movies and TV shows. Visitors can explore the 17-mile Valley Drive, take guided tours, or enjoy panoramic views from the Visitor Center

Monument Valley
Monument Valley
Monument Valley

Monument Valley