Monument Valley Extended Backcountry Tour

Discover the stunning landscapes of Monument Valley with the Extended Backcountry Tour, offered at $90 per person. This 3.5-hour guided experience takes you on a 28-mile journey through the tribal park, led by certified Navajo guides who share in-depth stories, legends, and cultural traditions. The tour departs from The View Hotel at 8:30 am and features a 4×4 open-air vehicle, perfect for capturing the vivid scenery and enjoying the fresh desert air.

What makes this tour stand out is its focus on accessing additional sites beyond the usual short visits. It includes stops at Big Hogan, John Ford’s Point, Navajo Hogan, and Big Hogan Arch, among others. Guests can expect immersive cultural demonstrations, such as a Navajo rug-weaving session, and the opportunity to see famous movie filming locations. With a maximum group size of 15, this experience offers an intimate look at Monument Valley’s geological marvels and Navajo heritage.

While most tours are booked 64 days in advance, planning ahead ensures securing a spot on this popular, highly-rated excursion. The tour is suitable for most travelers, though it’s not recommended for pregnant women over five months or those with weather sensitivities, as conditions can affect the experience.

Key Points

• Guided by certified Navajo guides with deep knowledge of the land and culture
• Includes exclusive stops such as Big Hogan and Big Hogan Arch
• Approximately 3.5 hours long, traveling 28 miles through Monument Valley
• Access to sites not covered in shorter tours, including rock formations and petroglyphs
• Cultural demonstrations like rug weaving and live performances
• Group size limited to 15, ensuring a personalized experience

Discover the Scenic Route Through Monument Valley

This extended backcountry tour begins at The View Hotel and departs promptly at 8:30 am. Over about 3.5 hours, the tour takes you 28 miles into the tribal park, exploring the most iconic sites and hidden gems that are often inaccessible to private vehicles or shorter tours. The open-air 4×4 vehicle offers a prime vantage point for photos and close-up views of mesas, buttes, and arches.

The pace allows ample time at each stop for photo opportunities and cultural explanations. Guides share stories about Navajo legends and geological formations, providing a meaningful context to the scenery. The experience is not overly rushed, making it a relaxing yet enriching adventure suitable for most visitors.

Iconic Stops: John Ford’s Point and Big Hogan

John Ford’s Point is a renowned filming location, offering sweeping views of the valley’s striking formations. Guests can stand at the edge and take in panoramic vistas that have appeared in numerous Western films.

Big Hogan and Big Hogan Arch are highlights of this tour, featuring impressive rock formations carved over eons. At Big Hogan, visitors can observe the massive cavernous structure that has become a favorite photo spot. The tour also includes a visit to a Navajo Hogan, where a rug-weaving demonstration showcases traditional craftsmanship.

Exclusive Cultural Experiences and Live Performances

One of the tour’s key strengths is the opportunity to learn about Navajo culture firsthand. Guides lead a visit to a traditional hogan, where guests witness a rug-weaving demonstration and listen to stories about Navajo life and legends.

At Big Hogan Arch and neighboring sites, live performances are sometimes offered, including musical instrumentals like flute playing, which enhance the immersion. These authentic experiences are not available in generic tours, making this outing more meaningful and memorable.

Meeting Points, Transport, and Group Size

The tour departs from The View Hotel in Oljato-Monument Valley, with pick-up and drop-off included for guests staying at the hotel. For overnight guests at KOA campground, arrangements can be made by calling the provider, although KOA pick-up is limited to KOA guests.

The group size is capped at 15 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience with ample space for questions and interaction. The vehicle is a 4×4 open-air model, designed for comfort and scenic viewing. Guests are encouraged to dress appropriately for weather conditions, as the open vehicle exposes travelers to the elements.

The Significance of the Stop at Sun’s Eye and Petroglyphs

At Sun’s Eye and nearby petroglyphs, the tour offers a glimpse into ancient Navajo and Ancestral Puebloan artwork. The petroglyphs are rock carvings that reveal stories and symbols from early inhabitants. The Sun’s Eye provides a dramatic view of the landscape, emphasizing the natural beauty and historical richness of the area.

The Unique Experience of the Artist’s Point and Cultural Demonstrations

Artist’s Point delivers stunning vistas where modern Navajo artists often display their work and share the stories behind their creations. The cultural demonstrations at Navajo Hogan include rug weaving and jewelry making, which visitors can observe and purchase from local artisans with cash preferred.

These stops add depth to the tour, connecting geology with living tradition, and supporting local artisans along the way.

The Role of Guides and Their Personal Touch

Guests frequently praise guides like Larry, Sandrea, Bruce, and Jamison for their knowledge, friendliness, and storytelling skills. Many reviews highlight their ability to share Navajo legends, perform music, such as flute playing, and offer helpful tips for photography and scenic viewing.

One reviewer recounts how Larry went above and beyond—including digging out a vehicle stuck in mud—making the experience both educational and fun. Such personal touches elevate this tour above standard offerings.

Practical Tips for Booking and Participation

Advance booking is strongly recommended, as the tour is highly popular. Confirmations are immediate, and cancellations can be made up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Guests should wear weather-appropriate clothing and bring cash for souvenirs or tips to artisans. The tour is not recommended for pregnant travelers over five months or those with severe weather sensitivities.

The tour’s small group size ensures a more intimate experience, ideal for those wanting more engagement and personal storytelling.

The Experience vs. Other Tours

Compared to shorter or larger group tours, this extended backcountry experience offers more access and deeper cultural insights. The guides’ expertise and special stops provide a richer understanding of Navajo traditions, geology, and film history.

While the price is reasonable for the time spent and the exclusivity of access, it’s important to book well in advance due to high demand. The small group size and personal guides are definite advantages for travelers seeking a memorable, authentic adventure.

Final Thoughts on the Monument Valley Extended Backcountry Tour

This 3.5-hour guided journey offers a comprehensive exploration of Monument Valley’s highlights, combining scenic views, cultural storytelling, and exclusive sites. The knowledgeable Navajo guides, who often perform music and storytelling, create an engaging and respectful experience that connects visitors to the land and its people.

While weather conditions can sometimes impact the trip, the tour’s flexibility and focus on cultural richness make it an excellent choice for those wanting to see more than the typical sightseeing. It’s perfect for travelers who appreciate authenticity, storytelling, and deeply scenic landscapes.

This tour delivers exceptional value through unique access, personalized guidance, and cultural demonstrations, making it an ideal option for adventurous, curious visitors eager to experience Monument Valley beyond the usual stops.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the Monument Valley Extended Backcountry Tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes.

Where does the tour start and end?
It departs from The View Hotel and concludes at the same location after completing the 28-mile journey.

What is included in the tour price?
The price of $90 covers a certified Navajo guide, pick-up and drop-off at The View Hotel, photo opportunities, and a 4×4 open-air vehicle.

Are there any additional fees?
Yes, there is a tribal park admission fee of $8 per person, payable by check or credit card, not included in the tour price.

Is this tour suitable for everyone?
Most travelers can participate, but pregnant women over five months and those sensitive to weather should consider their comfort. Proper clothing is recommended.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour start time, with full refunds. Rescheduling is possible if weather impacts the trip.

What makes this tour different from others?
It offers more access to hidden sites and cultural experiences than shorter tours, with small groups and guides from the Navajo Nation providing authentic insights.

Is it recommended to book in advance?
Absolutely; most bookings are made around 64 days ahead due to the tour’s popularity.

Can vegetarian or special dietary requests be accommodated?
The provided data does not specify dietary options, as the tour mainly focuses on land access and cultural demonstrations.

Are photos allowed during the tour?
Yes, photo opportunities are part of the experience, and guides often assist with photography tips.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring weather-appropriate clothing and cash for artisans’ purchases or tips. The open vehicle offers little protection from the elements, so dressing accordingly is wise.