If you’re dreaming of the open road and the cinematic landscapes of the American Southwest, you’re probably wondering: how far is Monument Valley from Los Angeles?
The short answer: it’s about 640 miles (1,030 kilometers) — roughly a 10- to 11-hour drive, depending on your route and stops.
Monument Valley sits along the Arizona–Utah border within the Navajo Nation, and it’s one of the world’s most recognizable landscapes—featured in classic Westerns, travel posters, and Hollywood films.
This guide explains how to get there, the best driving routes, top stops along the way, and why many travelers combine Monument Valley with Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, Zion, and the Grand Canyon on a single multi-day journey.
Quick Overview
Distance from Los Angeles: ~640 miles (1,030 km)
Driving Time: 10–11 hours (one way)
Best Route: I-15 North via Las Vegas → Page, AZ → Monument Valley
Closest Major City: Page, Arizona (2.5 hours away)
Ideal Trip Duration: 3–4 days
Best Seasons: Spring (Mar–May) and Fall (Sep–Oct)
Recommended Tour Option: MaxTour’s multi-day Southwest itinerary including Monument Valley, Antelope Canyon, and Horseshoe Bend
Driving from Los Angeles to Monument Valley
The Main Route (Via Las Vegas and Page, AZ)
This is the most scenic and popular route for travelers heading from Los Angeles to Monument Valley.
Route Overview:
- Take I-15 North from Los Angeles toward Las Vegas.
- Continue north into southern Utah.
- Take US-89 North toward Page, Arizona.
- Follow US-98 East to Kayenta, AZ.
- Drive north on US-163 into Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park.
Total Distance: ~640 miles (1,030 km)
Estimated Drive Time: 10–11 hours (without extended stops)
Pro Tip: Split the trip into two or three days. Overnight in Las Vegas or Page, Arizona for a more relaxed, scenic journey.
Best Stops Along the Way
1. Calico Ghost Town – Yermo, California
A restored 1880s silver-mining town offering shops, mine tours, and photo ops.
Why Stop: Family-friendly and full of Old West history.
2. Seven Magic Mountains – Jean, Nevada
A striking roadside art installation of neon-colored boulders stacked in the desert.
Why Stop: Quick, fun, and free photo stop just outside Las Vegas.
3. Las Vegas, Nevada
Perfect for an overnight stay or lunch break before heading deeper into the desert.
Why Stop: Great dining, entertainment, and easy access to the next leg of your route.
4. Hoover Dam – Boulder City, Nevada
An engineering marvel from the 1930s that still powers much of the Southwest.
Why Stop: Learn the dam’s history or walk across the bridge for panoramic views.
5. Antelope Canyon – Page, Arizona
A world-famous slot canyon known for its glowing light beams and sculpted sandstone.
Why Stop: Only accessible via Navajo-guided tours; absolutely worth it.
6. Horseshoe Bend – Page, Arizona
Just 10 minutes from Antelope Canyon, this overlook reveals a stunning bend in the Colorado River.
Why Stop: One of the most photographed spots in the American Southwest.
Monument Valley Highlights
When you arrive, you’ll quickly understand why this landscape has become the symbol of the American West—endless red mesas, sandstone towers, and skies that seem to go on forever.
Top Things to See and Do
Monument Valley Scenic Drive:
A 17-mile dirt loop through world-famous formations like West Mitten Butte, East Mitten Butte, and Merrick Butte.
John Ford’s Point:
A legendary film location offering sweeping views of the valley floor—named after the director who filmed Stagecoach and The Searchers here.
Navajo Guided Tours:
Experience the cultural heart of the land with a Navajo guide who shares the history, stories, and traditions of Monument Valley.
Sunrise & Sunset Views:
The lighting here transforms the landscape—especially during early morning or golden hour.
Pro Tip: Most areas beyond the main loop require an authorized Navajo guide. Book your tour in advance.
Why Visit Monument Valley with MaxTour
If you want to experience Monument Valley and nearby landmarks without the stress of long drives, planning, or permits, MaxTour’s 4 day tour from LA is the best way to go.
1. Seamless Multi-Park Itineraries
MaxTour connects Monument Valley, Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, and Grand Canyon in one expertly designed route—saving time while maximizing experiences.
2. Small Groups (14 Guests or Fewer)
Travel comfortably in luxury vans with no large buses or rushed stops. You’ll have space, flexibility, and personal attention.
3. Expert Local Guides
Knowledgeable guides share stories of Navajo culture, geology, and history, bringing each stop to life beyond its beauty.
4. All-Inclusive Convenience
Every tour includes:
- All park entry fees and Navajo permits
- Bottled water and snacks
- Hotel pickup/drop-off from Las Vegas Strip hotels
- Photo guidance and travel tips
5. Award-Winning Reputation
MaxTour has a perfect 5.0 Google rating, TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Awards (2020–2025), and more than 100,000 happy travelers since 2015. You can visit Monument Valley on MaxTour’s 4-day tour from Los Angeles, which covers some of the most iconic landscapes in the Southwest.
Best Time to Visit Monument Valley
| Season | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Spring (Mar–May) | Comfortable weather, clear skies | Occasional wind |
| Summer (Jun–Aug) | Long days, vivid sunsets | Hot midday temperatures |
| Fall (Sep–Oct) | Mild temps, golden light | Slightly busier weekends |
| Winter (Nov–Feb) | Quiet, photogenic skies | Cold mornings, shorter days |
Best Overall Months: April, May, September, and October
Pro Tip: The best light for photography is around sunrise or sunset, when the red sandstone glows orange and gold.
Travel Tips for Monument Valley
- Fuel up early: Gas stations become sparse after Page, Arizona.
- Stay overnight: Book The View Hotel or a nearby lodge for unbeatable sunrise views.
- Bring cash: Some local vendors and Navajo stands are cash-only.
- Dress smart: Sun hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are essentials.
- Respect Navajo land: Always follow local rules and travel with authorized guides where required.
- Bring your camera: The landscape is truly once-in-a-lifetime.
Extended FAQs
Q: How far is Monument Valley from Los Angeles by car?
A: About 640 miles or roughly 10–11 hours of driving, depending on your route and stops.
Q: Can you visit Monument Valley as a day trip from Los Angeles?
A: No—it’s too far for one day. Plan a 3–4 day trip or join a multi-day guided tour.
Q: Is Monument Valley a national park?
A: It’s not a U.S. national park—it’s a tribal park managed by the Navajo Nation.
Q: Can I drive through Monument Valley on my own?
A: Yes, but only along the 17-mile Scenic Loop. Access beyond that requires a Navajo-guided tour.
Q: Can I combine Monument Valley with other parks?
A: Absolutely. It pairs beautifully with Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, Zion, and the Grand Canyon—many MaxTour routes cover them all.
Final Thoughts
So, how far is Monument Valley from Los Angeles? About 640 miles—a long but truly spectacular journey across deserts, mountains, and red-rock country.
Whether you road trip it yourself or join a MaxTour small-group adventure, the drive is filled with wonder at every turn. From the glowing slot canyons of Page to the towering buttes of Monument Valley, you’ll discover why this region is called the heart of the American Southwest.
When you finally stand beneath those massive sandstone monoliths, watching the sunrise paint them red and gold, every mile from Los Angeles will feel worth it.
Quick Recap
- Distance: ~640 miles (1,030 km)
- Drive Time: 10–11 hours
- Best Route: I-15 N → US-89 → US-98 → US-163
- Ideal Duration: 3–4 days
- Best Months: April, May, September, October
- Don’t Miss: Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, John Ford’s Point