The comedian George Carlin reportedly stated, “Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away.” Monument Valley is one of those life affirming moments that take your breath away. Perhaps the most notable scenic icon of the American west, Monument Valley is one of the most picturesque places in the entire world! Every American should take a trip to this iconic location and every Utahn should make the pilgrimage to this most sacred location.
Located on the Utah/Arizona border this area is a painter and photographer’s dream. We spent the three-day President’s Day holiday exploring this corner of Utah based out of a cute little Bed and Breakfast in Monticello, Utah called the Grist Mill Bed and Breakfast. Located high on the Colorado Plateau we experienced both beautiful desert scenery and mountain blizzards on the same day but we loved this trip! Monument Valley is neither a state or national monument but rather a Navajo Tribal Park. The native American culture in this area is on full display with not only the modern Navajo Tribal lands in Monument Valley but the equally impressive ancient Puebloan ruins from 1200-1400 AD located at Hovenweep National Monument and Edge of the Cedars State Park.