Valley of the Gods, United States Guide
Valley of the Gods is not a city, but rather a scenic sandstone valley in southeastern Utah, near Mexican Hat and Monument Valley. It's a hidden gem offering a more secluded and less crowded experience than its famous neighbor. The landscape is characterized by towering buttes, mesas, and spires sculpted by wind and water over millions of years, creating a dramatic and awe-inspiring panorama. Unlike a traditional city, Valley of the Gods offers a raw and untamed natural beauty. It's a place for exploration, photography, and quiet contemplation. Visitors can drive the 17-mile dirt road loop, hike among the formations, and camp under the stars, experiencing the solitude and grandeur of the American Southwest. It's a destination for those seeking adventure and a connection with nature, rather than urban amenities.
Food & Cuisine
There are no restaurants or markets within Valley of the Gods itself. Visitors should bring their own food and water. The nearest options for dining and groceries are located in Mexican Hat (approximately 15 miles away) and Bluff (approximately 30 miles away). These towns offer a limited selection of restaurants serving American and Southwestern cuisine. Packing a picnic is highly recommended to enjoy amidst the stunning scenery.
Nightlife
Nightlife in Valley of the Gods is limited to stargazing and enjoying the quiet solitude of the desert. The area is known for its exceptionally dark skies, making it an ideal location for astronomy enthusiasts. There are no bars, clubs, or other entertainment venues within the valley. The nearest options for nightlife would be in the towns of Mexican Hat or Bluff, which offer a few local bars.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Valley of the Gods is during the spring (April-May) or fall (September-October). The weather during these months is generally mild and pleasant, with comfortable temperatures for hiking and exploring. Summer can be very hot, with temperatures often exceeding 100°F (38°C), while winter can bring snow and cold temperatures.
Transportation
There is no public transportation in Valley of the Gods. The primary mode of transportation is a personal vehicle, preferably with high clearance due to the unpaved roads. Four-wheel drive is recommended, especially after rain or snow. Guided tours are also available from nearby towns.
Airport
The closest major airport is Durango-La Plata County Airport (DRO) in Durango, Colorado, approximately 2.5 hours (150 miles) northeast of Valley of the Gods. Another option is Four Corners Regional Airport (FMN) in Farmington, New Mexico, approximately 2 hours (120 miles) southeast. Rental cars are available at both airports and are necessary for reaching and exploring Valley of the Gods.
Attractions
Valley of the Gods Bed and Breakfast
Valley of the Gods Bed and Breakfast offers cozy accommodations in a stunning desert setting with panoramic views of the red rock formations. Guests can relax on the patio, stargaze at night, and enjoy homemade breakfasts made with local ingredients. The B&B is a peaceful retreat for visitors exploring the Valley of the Gods and nearby attractions like Monument Valley and Natural Bridges National Monument.
Muley Point Overlook
Muley Point Overlook offers panoramic views of the San Juan River, Monument Valley, and the Valley of the Gods from a high vantage point on Cedar Mesa. Visitors can drive to the overlook and enjoy stunning sunrise and sunset views of the surrounding red rock landscape. The overlook is a popular spot for photography and birdwatching in this remote and scenic area.
Moki Dugway
Moki Dugway is a steep, unpaved switchback road that descends 1,200 feet in just three miles down the face of Cedar Mesa. The road offers breathtaking views of the Valley of the Gods, Monument Valley, and the surrounding red rock landscape. Visitors can drive or bike this thrilling road for an unforgettable adventure and stunning panoramic vistas.
Goosenecks State Park
Goosenecks State Park overlooks a deep meander of the San Juan River, where the river has carved a series of tight loops or goosenecks into the landscape. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the river from the overlooks, hike along the rim, and camp in this remote and rugged desert park. The park offers unparalleled views of the river's winding path through the canyon.
Cedar Mesa
Cedar Mesa is a rugged and remote wilderness area known for its ancient Ancestral Puebloan ruins, rock art, and stunning red rock canyons. Visitors can hike, backpack, and explore the numerous archaeological sites scattered throughout the mesa. The area offers a unique opportunity to experience the rich cultural history and natural beauty of the desert southwest.
Sand Island Petroglyphs
The Sand Island Petroglyphs are a collection of ancient rock art panels created by the Ancestral Puebloan people. Visitors can hike along the Sand Island Petroglyph Trail to see these intricate petroglyphs depicting animals, humans, and geometric designs. The site offers a glimpse into the cultural and artistic traditions of the ancient inhabitants of the region.
Valley of the Gods
Valley of the Gods is a scenic sandstone valley with towering red rock formations that resemble castles, cathedrals, and other unique shapes. Visitors can drive the 17-mile loop road through the valley to admire the stunning rock formations and enjoy hiking, photography, and camping in this remote and beautiful desert landscape.
Mexican Hat Rock
Mexican Hat Rock is a distinctive sandstone formation resembling a sombrero perched precariously on a narrow base. Visitors can view this unique rock formation from various viewpoints along the highway or take a short hike to get a closer look. The rock is a popular spot for photography and offers stunning views of the surrounding desert landscape.
Day Trips
Step back in time at Bluff Fort Historic Site, a living history museum that recreates the original Mormon settlement of Bluff. Costumed interpreters demonstrate pioneer skills and share stories of the Hole-in-the-Rock Expedition, a remarkable journey that brought the first settlers to this remote area.
45 minutes by car Muley Point Overlook provides panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including Monument Valley, the San Juan River, and the distant canyons. The drive to the overlook is on a partially unpaved road, but the views are well worth the effort. It's an excellent spot for photography, especially at sunrise or sunset.
1 hour by car (including some unpaved road) Explore the ancestral Puebloan culture at Edge of the Cedars State Park Museum. This museum protects and interprets the ruins of an ancient Puebloan village, offering insights into the lives of the people who inhabited this region centuries ago. You can wander through the partially excavated ruins and learn about their pottery, tools, and way of life.
1 hour 15 minutes by car The small town of Mexican Hat, named after the sombrero-shaped rock formation overlooking it, offers a glimpse into the quiet life of the American Southwest. It's a convenient base for exploring the surrounding natural wonders and provides a few local shops and restaurants. The "Mexican Hat Rock" itself is a fun photo opportunity.
20 minutes by car A short drive from Valley of the Gods, Monument Valley is an iconic landscape of towering sandstone buttes that have been featured in countless Western films. This Navajo Tribal Park offers stunning scenic drives, guided tours led by Navajo guides, and opportunities to learn about the rich cultural heritage of the Navajo Nation. The sheer scale and beauty of the landscape are truly awe-inspiring.
30-45 minutes by car Goosenecks State Park offers a breathtaking view of the San Juan River as it carves its way through the desert landscape. The river meanders in tight, horseshoe-shaped bends, creating a dramatic and unique geological formation. It's a fantastic spot for photography and enjoying the vastness of the desert.
30 minutes by car Home to three magnificent natural bridges carved from sandstone, Natural Bridges National Monument is a testament to the power of water and time. Hike to overlooks for stunning views of the bridges, or take longer trails to get up close and personal with these geological wonders. The park is also an International Dark Sky Park, making it an excellent location for stargazing.
1 hour 30 minutes by car Bluff Fort Historic Site
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Muley Point Overlook
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Edge of the Cedars State Park Museum
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Mexican Hat
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Monument Valley
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Goosenecks State Park
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Natural Bridges National Monument
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