Road conditions in Monument Valley

Hi everyone, I’m planning to visit Monument Valley next Saturday after 3 days at the Grand Canyon. I saw on navajonationparks.org that some roads can be tricky during rainy periods. Is anyone there right now who could tell me what the road conditions are like in the park and whether it’s impassable with a regular rental car? Thanks so much in advance, Ruby

Hi, If the road is dry, it’s accessible to any vehicle (I’ve seen vans and RVs). Just be careful with your line to avoid holes or sand—don’t hesitate to drive on the left for a bit if needed. On the other hand, if it’s rained, NO WAY—it turns into glue, and if you get stuck, you’ll have to call the Navajo locals. And trust me, the bill won’t be pretty! Safe travels

Hi there,

Road conditions can change quickly, even during the day! It's especially tricky right at the start, and at least an SUV is recommended. Don’t forget that most rental companies prohibit driving on unpaved roads with a rental vehicle—if something goes wrong, the bill can be steep 😉 (sometimes I wonder if the Navajo intentionally leave the road like this—it must be profitable 😎).

It's true that rental companies ban this road, but honestly, if conditions are good, how many people ignore the ban—me first, and with no regrets because it's really worth it! Best,

Good evening Evajules and Biggie, Thanks for your advice. It's true that we did it once a long time ago with our rental car, but I don’t think I’ll risk it if it’s raining. I’ll stay cautious and avoid adding to the bill :) Thanks again, and see you next time, Ruby

For the driving loop inside the site, plan for about two and a half hours. If it’s not drivable due to rain (a wise precaution), that doesn’t disrupt the day’s plans.

To fill this "free time," you already have the viewpoint from the terrace of the hotel "The View," which will take about half an hour, and for the rest of the time, you can head to Goosenecks State Park (paved road) and/or do part of Valley of the Gods, which is rockier and less sandy than MV, so it might still be doable.