Monument Valley, Iconic red rock loop: From a distance the rugged sandstone formations of Monument Valley look like a prehistoric fortress a huddled mass of red and gold protecting ancient secrets. But as you drive closer individual buttes and craggy formations break from the pack luring you closer with sun reflected beauty and unusual shapes.
The closest town to Monument Valley is Kayenta a cluster of gas stations motels and restaurants at the junction of Hwys 160 and 163 Like Monument Valley Kayenta is part of the aprawling Navajo Reservation at 27,000 sq miles the country' s largest reservation which spills across state lines into Utah and New Mexico. Hwy 163 leads to Mounment Valley and the 17 mile loop around it. The Monument Valley Scenic Drive ($20) is a dusty bumpy dirt road that winds beneath the sandstone formations most named for the objects or animals they resemble from the Mittens to Elephant Buttle. Budget about two hours for the drive.