Monument valley has been on our list for some time. We have been close, but it never worked out. It’s just kind of out of the way. We were heading to Kanab, Utah and decided that we would finally make the trip up to Monument Valley. The trip was relatively easy and we made a reservation online for Goulding’s Lodge Campground. There is not much in the area and it’s a drive to everything. We had used our time in Gallop, New Mexico to stock up and headed up Route 481 toward Ship Rock. We got to Goulding’s at about three pm, signed in and set up. The sites are on a hill and are easy in and out. We are 40.5 ft. long and we fit with not a lot to spare. The campground is in a red rock canyon and you have to follow the signs. It was not real clear where to go, but we followed up the hill and got to the campground. It was hot and sunny so we decided to get unhooked and make the trip over to Monument Valley. We paid our admission and found our ticket was good for 2 days. We went to the visitor’s center to read the placards and information set up. We always like to watch any movies offered as they provide a wealth of info regarding whatever Park we are visiting. looking out over the Valley, one can view many of the Monuments. The views are spectacular and we took pictures and were excited to plan our trip around the Loop Road for the next day. We went back and wandered around Gouldings. There are a hotel, restaurant, and some tourist stuff about the western movies made here.
The next morning we were up and off to drive the trip around the monuments. There are 10 stops and many places to take pictures and walk around. The trip is hard and rough. The road is very rough and full of potholes and we bounced along in our 4 wheel drive truck. It was slow going and beat us up a lot. We are easy going and don’t usually complain, but this was a rough ride. We are glad that we made the trip and took some great picture that we are sharing here. It is always interesting to read the People’s (Navajo call themselves) explanation of their view of Monument Valley.
We returned to the campground and hiked up on the canyon and got some great views of the campground, red rocks and an arch or two. The area is hot and dry. Make sure you have water, hat, and sunscreen.
We stayed the second night and headed out toward Lake Powell and on to Kanab Utah.
