Monument Valley Extended Backcountry Tour

Experience the Heart of Monument Valley with the Extended Backcountry Tour

If you’re dreaming of standing among towering red buttes and mystical arches, the Monument Valley Extended Backcountry Tour is a fantastic way to do it. For around $90 per person, this 3.5-hour journey takes you deeper into the Navajo landscape than most standard tours, exploring 28 miles of rugged terrain with a knowledgeable Navajo guide. Led by local experts, this tour isn’t just about the postcard views — it’s about understanding the stories, culture, and geology that make Monument Valley so unique.

What we love most about this experience is how it balances spectacular scenery with authentic cultural insights. You’ll get up close to iconic sites like John Ford’s Point and Big Hogan, but also venture off the main loop to discover hidden gems such as Sun’s Eye and Moccasin Arch. Plus, the chance to see a traditional Navajo Hogan and watch a rug-weaving demonstration makes this a well-rounded cultural experience.

One potential consideration is the group size, which is limited to 15 travelers. This keeps things intimate but also means you’ll want to book early — most reservations are made around 64 days in advance. Also, since the tour involves rough terrain and open-air 4×4 vehicles, dressing appropriately for weather conditions is essential. It’s not suitable for pregnant travelers over five months, and those with mobility issues should be aware of the terrain.

This tour suits travelers who want a deeper dive into Navajo culture, stunning photo opportunities, and an off-the-beaten-path adventure. If you’re okay with a slightly longer booking window and enjoy guided storytelling, you’ll find this experience well worth the investment.

Key Points

• In-Depth Experience: Covers 28 miles of Monument Valley’s most breathtaking sights with a Navajo guide.
• Cultural Insights: Learn about Navajo legends, traditions, and the significance of the land directly from local guides.
• Authentic Encounters: Includes a visit to a Navajo Hogan and a rug-weaving demonstration.
• Limited Group Size: Small tours of 15 travelers provide personalized attention.
• Transportation: Open-air 4×4 vehicles navigate rugged terrain, offering great photo ops.
• Booking Window: Popular tour, usually booked about 64 days in advance, so plan ahead.

A Closer Look at the Monument Valley Extended Backcountry Tour

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

This isn’t just a scenic drive; it’s a cultural journey. The tour takes you beyond the usual viewpoints and into the less accessible corners of the Navajo Nation. Led by a certified Navajo guide, you’ll learn the stories behind the famous formations — like the Mitten View, the Elephant Butte, and the iconic John Ford’s Point. We loved how guides share personal stories and local legends, transforming a simple sightseeing trip into a meaningful experience.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting at the View Hotel, the tour begins early, with departure at 8:30am, giving you the benefit of soft morning light. The first stops include West & East Mitten View, perfect for wide-angle photos of these distinctive formations. Moving on, Elephant Butte offers a unique shape that resembles, unsurprisingly, an elephant.

Next, you’ll visit John Ford’s Point, made famous by countless Western films, and a site that offers sweeping views of the valley’s signature red mesas. Here, many guests mention how the scenery is “breathtaking” and that the photo opportunities are endless.

A highlight for many is the visit to a Navajo Hogan — a traditional dwelling — where you can watch a rug-weaving demonstration. Several reviews mention how touching it was to see “Loretta in her Hogan” and learn about Navajo craftsmanship directly from artisans.

The tour also includes stops at Big Hogan Arch, Moccasin Arch, and the Live Performance, where guides sometimes play traditional instruments or sing, adding a soulful touch. Later, sites like the Sun’s Eye and Anasazi Petroglyphs give a glimpse into ancient ruins and rock art, enriching the storytelling with history and geology.

Other stops include Ear of the Wind Arch, Echo Cave Ruin, and the ToTem Pole Monument, each offering unique views and stories. The day concludes at Artist’s Point and Spearhead Mesa, providing more photo-worthy vistas, and a final stop at North Window seals the tour with a spectacular view.

What to Expect from the Experience

You’ll be riding in a comfortable open-air 4×4, which is crucial for navigating the rough, unpaved roads. The open design allows for unobstructed photography and a true sense of adventure, though it also means you should bring appropriate clothing for the weather — layers for cold mornings and sun protection for warmer days.

Tour guides are often praised for their depth of knowledge and passion. Many reviews mention guides like Larry, Jamison, and Sandrea as being ** personable, humorous, and insightful**, often adding live music or personal stories that deepen the experience.

The Cultural Element

The Navajo guides do more than point out sights; they share legends, traditions, and landscape significance. Many travelers find this enriches their understanding of the land, transforming a sightseeing trip into a meaningful cultural exchange. For example, seeing a Navajo woman weaving and hearing about her craft personalizes the experience and supports local artisans (cash purchases are encouraged).

The Value for Money

At $90, this tour offers excellent value considering the depth of access, the small group size, and the cultural insights you gain. While the Tribal Park admission fee of $8 is additional, it’s a small price for the privilege of exploring areas inaccessible to self-drivers.

Given the reviews praising the guides’ knowledge and stunning scenery, many say it’s worth every penny. Some note that attempting to do this independently would be nearly impossible because of restricted roads and the need for a licensed Navajo guide to access certain sites.

Practical Tips

• Book early — most travelers reserve around 2 months in advance.
• Dress weather-appropriate — layers, hat, sunglasses, and sunblock are smart choices.
• Bring cash — for local purchases at artisans’ stalls.
• Be prepared for a bumpy ride — the terrain is rugged, but the views compensate for the discomfort.
• Arrive 10-15 minutes early at the View Hotel to check in — avoid outside check-ins, which aren’t recommended.
• Comfortable footwear helps, especially if you plan to step out at stops.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is perfect for travelers who crave authentic Navajo experiences combined with stunning landscape photography. It’s ideal if you value guided narratives from local experts, especially those keen to learn about Navajo legends and traditional crafts. Because of the small group size and personalized approach, it suits travelers who want a more intimate experience rather than a large bus tour.

If you’re a photography enthusiast, the stops like Artist’s Point and North Window will reward you with unmatched vistas. For those interested in cultural education, the visit to the hogan and the rug-weaving demonstration are highlights.

However, if you’re on a very tight schedule, note this tour requires advance booking and involves rough terrain, so it’s less suited for travelers with mobility issues or those who prefer a quick overview.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

Absolutely yes, if you’re looking for a comprehensive, engaging, and culturally meaningful visit to Monument Valley. The knowledgeable guides, stunning vistas, and small group size make this tour stand out. It’s especially valuable if you want more than just surface-level sightseeing and enjoy stories and traditions woven into your experience.

The tour’s price reflects its quality and depth, offering access to areas you’d likely miss on your own. Plus, the opportunity to support Navajo artisans and learn firsthand about their way of life makes this a tour that feels both enriching and authentic.

For those who want a well-paced, educational, and visually spectacular trip, this extended backcountry tour gets a big thumbs-up. Just remember to book early, dress for the weather, and bring your camera — you’ll probably want to remember this day for a long time.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children can participate but must be accompanied by an adult. Keep in mind the terrain and open-air vehicle, so consider your kids’ comfort with outdoor adventure.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, covering 28 miles of the valley’s most famous sights and hidden corners.

What’s included in the price?
A certified Navajo guide, pick-up and drop-off at the View Hotel (and KOA for overnight guests), photo opportunities, and transportation in a 4×4 open-air vehicle.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, the Tribal Park Admission Fee of $8 per person, payable by check or credit card, is not included.

Is this a small-group tour?
Yes, with a maximum of 15 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience and ample opportunity for questions and photos.

What should I wear?
Dress appropriately for weather — layers, hats, sun protection, and sturdy shoes are recommended.

Can I cancel if needed?
Yes, free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund. Tours may be canceled due to weather, but rescheduling or refunds are offered.

This guided journey into Monument Valley is a fine choice for travelers eager to explore beyond the typical viewpoints, eager to learn Navajo stories, and excited to capture unforgettable images. It’s a full, authentic experience that respects the land and its people, making your visit truly meaningful.