Monument Valley Backcountry Tour

Experience the Heart of Monument Valley with the Backcountry Tour

If you’re dreaming of iconic red sandstone formations and sweeping desert vistas, the Monument Valley Backcountry Tour is a fantastic way to experience this legendary landscape. Priced at $67.50 per person and lasting around 2.5 hours, this guided adventure takes you beyond the usual tourist spots, with a Navajo guide leading the way. You’ll explore off-limits areas, learn about Navajo traditions, and witness cultural demonstrations, making it more than just a sightseeing trip — it’s a genuine cultural exchange.

What we love about this tour is how it combines spectacular scenery with authentic Navajo storytelling. The guide’s personal insights make the landscape come alive, and the chance to see rare spots like the Big Hogan Arch or Moccasin Arch makes this trip special. Plus, the rug weaving demonstration and live performances give a rare glimpse into Navajo craftsmanship and traditions.

A small drawback could be the group size—limited to 12 travelers—which might mean booking well in advance, especially during peak seasons. Also, note that admission to the Tribal Park isn’t included in the tour price, so you’ll want to be prepared for that extra fee.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want to combine visual awe with cultural learning and are comfortable with roughly 2.5 hours on a comfortable but open-air vehicle. If you value knowledgeable guides who share stories with passion, this experience will likely be a highlight of your trip.

Key Points

• Authentic Navajo Experience: Guided by a Navajo guide who shares stories, culture, and traditions.
• Diverse Scenic Stops: Multiple viewpoints like John Ford’s Point, Sun’s Eye, and historic petroglyphs.
• Cultural Demonstrations: Rug weaving and live performances add a personal touch.
• Access to Off-limits Areas: Explore parts of the valley that are usually closed to the public.
• Small Group Size: Limited to 12 travelers ensures a more intimate experience.
• Hassle-free Pickup: Convenient pickup from The View Hotel or KOA campground for overnight guests.

A Deep Dive into the Monument Valley Backcountry Tour

The Basics: What’s Included and How It Works

This tour is a well-organized, 2.5-hour journey into Monument Valley’s backcountry, led by a certified Navajo guide. The experience starts with pick-up at The View Hotel, a popular central location, or from KOA campground if you’re staying nearby. The group size rarely exceeds 12, which helps keep the atmosphere friendly and personal.

Price-wise, at just over $67, this tour offers excellent value—especially considering the depth of cultural insight and the exclusive access to certain areas. Keep in mind, admission to the Tribal Park isn’t included, so budget for that separately.

The Itinerary in Detail

This tour covers a lot of ground in roughly two and a half hours. Each stop offers something unique:

• Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park: The journey begins with classic views at West & East Mitten View, iconic for their distinctive shapes. You’ll get the chance to take photos and grasp the scale of these monoliths.

• John Ford’s Point: No visit to Monument Valley is complete without this famous vista, made famous by countless Western films. Expect wide-open views and a sense of cinematic history.

• Navajo Hogan Visit & Rug Weaving Demo: This stop is a highlight for cultural enthusiasts. You’ll see a traditional Navajo Hogan and watch artisans spin, dye, and weave authentic Navajo rugs—a craft that takes hours, if not days, to produce. As one reviewer noted, “So much work, spinning and making the thread from sheep hair.” It’s a wonderful way to appreciate Navajo artistry firsthand.

• Big Hogan Arch, Moccasin Arch & Live Performance: Here, you’ll see majestic natural arches and enjoy a live Navajo performance—perhaps singing, drumming, or storytelling. The elderly Navajo woman sharing her crafts adds a heartfelt, personal touch, making this stop particularly memorable.

• Sun’s Eye & Anasazi Petroglyphs/Ruins: Expect a brief but impactful visit to petroglyphs—ancient rock carvings—and possibly some ruins, providing a glimpse into the area’s long history.

• Totem Pole Monument: This striking formation offers a different perspective on the land’s natural sculptures.

• North Window or Artist’s Point: The tour concludes with another stunning viewpoint, perfect for capturing that famous silhouette against a vast sky.

The Experience: What It Feels Like

Traveling in an open-air truck, you’ll feel the wind and hear the stories from your guide, making each stop an immersive experience. Many reviews highlight how knowledgeable guides like Cheryl, Larry, or Marjorie enhance the tour with passionate storytelling and native songs. One visitor raved about their guide singing native songs, which adds a musical dimension to the visit.

The small group size means everyone gets personal attention, and the comfortable seats in the truck make a long day of sightseeing surprisingly relaxing. Many travelers appreciated the cultural richness—from Navajo stories to craft demonstrations—that you simply can’t get from a bus or self-drive.

The Cultural Aspect

One of the biggest advantages of this tour is the insider perspective. Guides are Navajo, often sharing insights on social life, traditions, and spiritual beliefs. As one reviewer expressed, “We got some new information about Navajo social life and the significance of their stories,” which adds depth to the landscape’s visual beauty.

Practical Considerations

While the tour is highly praised, there are some details to consider. For example, costs add up since the admission fee isn’t included, and you’ll want to book well in advance—average bookings are made 55 days ahead—to secure your spot. The hassle-free pickup from select hotels is a plus, but note that KOA campground pickups are only for overnight guests. Weather can also impact your experience, as outdated or poor weather might mean rescheduling or cancellations, though full refunds are available if you cancel more than 24 hours in advance.

Why Travelers Love It

Most reviews are glowing, with 5-star ratings emphasizing the expert guides, breathtaking views, and cultural richness. Visitors frequently mention how knowledgeable guides like Larry or Cheryl made the experience feel personal and educational. The rug weaving demonstration and live performances stand out as unique highlights, giving visitors a deeper connection with Navajo traditions.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for history buffs, culture seekers, and photographers who want to see Monument Valley beyond the usual viewpoints. If you value local expertise and want to learn about Navajo life and beliefs while enjoying stunning scenery, this is a perfect fit. The small-group format and cultural demonstrations make it especially suitable for travelers who prefer an intimate, educational experience over large bus tours.

Final Thoughts

The Monument Valley Backcountry Tour offers a rich blend of natural beauty and cultural storytelling, making it a worthwhile choice for those looking for an authentic experience. The expert Navajo guides bring the land alive with stories, songs, and demonstrations that transform a simple sightseeing trip into a meaningful cultural journey.

While the cost is reasonable for what’s included, remember that additional fees for park admission and potentially other souvenirs or crafts are separate. The small group size ensures you won’t feel lost in the crowd, and the off-limits areas visited make this a more exclusive experience.

If you’re eager for breathtaking vistas combined with meaningful cultural insights, and you’re prepared to book in advance, this tour will not disappoint. It’s best for those who want to connect with the Navajo people and their land — truly a memorable way to understand the spirit of Monument Valley.

FAQ

Is transportation provided?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off at The View Hotel lobby or KOA campground for overnight guests, in a comfortable open-air truck.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, giving you plenty of time at each stop without feeling rushed.

Do I need to pay the park entrance fee separately?
Yes, the admission to Tribal Park is not included, so plan for this additional cost.

Can I join if I have mobility issues?
Most travelers can participate, but keep in mind the vehicle is an open-air truck, and some stops may involve short walks or uneven terrain.

What’s the size of the tour group?
The maximum is 12 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and engaging.

Is the tour suitable in all weather conditions?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Are children allowed?
Most travelers of all ages can join, but consider the length of the tour and the open vehicle when planning for young children.

What about guide quality?
Reviews highlight the knowledge and friendliness of guides like Larry, Cheryl, and Marjorie, who make the experience both fun and educational.

This tour offers an enriching mix of stunning scenery and deep cultural insight, making it a highlight for those visiting Monument Valley. Whether you’re a dedicated photographer, history lover, or just craving an authentic Navajo experience, this trip is well worth the early booking and small extra costs.