Monument Valley
Arizona
Monument Valley, known locally as Tsé Biiʼ Ndzisgaii meaning "valley of the rocks," is a remarkable natural region located on the Colorado Plateau along the Utah-Arizona border. It features a cluster of dramatic sandstone buttes rising up to 1,000 feet above the valley floor, which is predominantly composed of vivid red siltstone colored by iron oxide. The valley is part of the Navajo Nation Reservation and holds deep cultural and spiritual significance for the Navajo people. Its striking landscape has been immortalized in numerous Western films by director John Ford and others, shaping the popular image of the American West. Visitors can explore the area via a 17-mile scenic dirt road loop within Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park, with guided tours available for more remote sections like Mystery Valley and Hunts Mesa. The desert climate offers hot summers tempered by high elevation and cold winters with occasional snow. Monument Valley's unique rock formations, including the famous West and East Mitten Buttes and Merrick Butte, along with mesas and spires such as the Totem Pole, create a spectacular visual experience that continues to inspire artists, filmmakers, and travelers worldwide.
ヒント: The best time to visit Monument Valley is during the shoulder seasons or early morning and late afternoon to avoid peak crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures. Visitors should purchase access fees and guided tours in advance, especially for restricted areas like Mystery Valley and Hunts Mesa. Due to rough terrain and deep sand dunes on the scenic loop, motorcycles and RVs are prohibited. Wear appropriate clothing for unpredictable desert weather, including hats and long sleeves, and stay hydrated to prevent heat exhaustion. Be prepared for potential wait times during the busy May to September season and respect all signage and designated routes for safety and preservation.
興味深い事実
- •Monument Valley's red coloration is due to iron oxide in the siltstone, while darker rocks owe their color to manganese oxide.
- •The valley includes famous rock formations such as West and East Mitten Buttes, Merrick Butte, and the Totem Pole spire.
- •John Ford's Western films, including 'Stagecoach' and 'The Searchers,' were filmed here, influencing popular imagery of the American West.
- •The valley floor elevation ranges between 5,000 to 6,000 feet above sea level.
- •Between 1945 and 1967, uranium mining occurred in parts of the valley's southern extent.
歴史
Monument Valley's geological formations were shaped over millions of years through erosion of sedimentary rock layers, including the Organ Rock Shale and de Chelly Sandstone.
The area has been inhabited and held sacred by the Navajo Nation, who named it Tsé Biiʼ Ndzisgaii.
From 1945 to 1967, parts of the region were mined for uranium, vanadium, and copper.
Monument Valley gained international fame in the 1930s when filmmaker John Ford used it as a backdrop for iconic Western movies, cementing its place in American cultural history.
The Navajo Nation now manages the area as a tribal park, preserving its natural beauty and cultural heritage.
場所ガイド
West and East Mitten Buttes
These iconic sandstone buttes resemble giant mittens and are among the most photographed formations in Monument Valley. They rise dramatically from the valley floor and are visible from many viewpoints along the scenic loop.
Merrick Butte
Another prominent sandstone butte near the Mittens, Merrick Butte adds to the valley's striking skyline and is a favorite subject for photographers and visitors.
Totem Pole
A slender, highly eroded spire of sandstone, the Totem Pole is a dramatic natural formation that towers above the desert floor, showcasing the valley's unique erosional processes.
17-Mile Scenic Loop Drive
A dirt road loop through the park that offers close-up views of many famous rock formations. Visitors can drive the route themselves or join guided tours for access to more remote areas.
Visitor Center and Wildcat Trail
The Visitor Center offers information and sign-in for the Wildcat Trail, a 1.5-mile hiking loop that allows visitors to experience the valley on foot and view the Mittens up close.
連絡先
電話: (435) 727-5870
