Monument Valley Elopement Guide

Monument Valley is a popular location in Arizona, USA, for elopements due to its iconic red sandstone formations and desert landscape. The valley produces an ambiance painted in warm, earthy tones and is an ideal choice for adventurous couples. The true nature of the wild west of Monument Valley attracts free-spirited couples, artists, and nature lovers alike.

How Was Monument Valley formed?

Submerged beneath the ancient Western Interior Seaway, sediments formed a seabed over time. Tectonic forces later pushed together to create a desert plateau. Over millions of years, the sandstone was worn down by weather, creating the spires found there today. Once part of flat mesas, these formations are now isolated buttes and symbolize the Wild West.

Is Monument Valley a National Park?

No. Monument Valley is located within the Navajo Nation Reservation on the border of Arizona and Utah in the United States. The Navajo Nation Parks and Recreation Department manages the area rather than the National Park Service.

Can You Elope in Monument Valley?

$300 Processing Fee for Weddings

$250 Land Usage Fee for all areas.

Important rules.

Download application.

When is the Best Time to Visit Monument Valley?

The best times to visit Monument Valley are spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) when there is mild weather and fewer crowds. Summers can be uncomfortably hot, and winters may have snow that limits access.

How to Visit Monument Valley

Distances & Driving Times From Nearby Airports

Page — 125 miles, 2 hours
Flagstaff — 177 miles, 3 hours
Phoenix — 320 miles, 5 hours
Albuquerque — 324 miles, 5 hours
Las Vegas — 400 miles, 6.5 hours
Salt Lake City — 380 miles, 6.5 hours

Locations in Monument Valley

Hotels in Monument Valley

Unique Stays in Monument Valley

Camp in Monument Valley

Elopement Locations in Monument Valley

John Ford Point
Artist’s Point
Totem Pole and Yei Bi Chei

What to Do in Monument Valley

Drive Monument Valley Scenic Drive
Take in the views at John Ford Point
Check out the “Rain God Mesa”
See the Bird & Sand Springs
Take a tour with a Navajo Guide
Explore Hogan Village
Visit the Monument Valley Visitor Center
Take HWY 163 to Forrest Gump Point
Take a photo at ‘The North Window’

Can You Drive Through Monument Valley

Yes! The main road through the valley is a 17-mile loop called the Valley Drive. It’s a dirt road that winds through the red rock formations and landmarks like Mittens, Merrick Butte, and Elephant Butte. The drive is accessible to most vehicles, although it can be rough in some sections. Guided tours are available for those who prefer not to drive.

Can You Hike in Monument Valley?

The Wildcat Trail is a popular 3.2-mile loop starting near the visitor center and offers up-close views of Monument Valley's floor, the Mittens, and Merrick Butte. This is the only “self-guided tour” option in Monument Valley. Please note that much of the area is on Navajo Tribal land, where access to certain areas may be restricted or guide-only, meaning free-roam hiking is pretty limited. If you do plan to do a guided hike or explore the Wildcat Trail, prepare for harsh desert conditions with water, sun protection, and suitable footwear.

How Much Does it Cost to Elope in Monument Valley?

Luxury

Low Cost

marriage license — $83

processing fee — $300

land use fee — $250

backcountry tour — $85/person

3 night luxury airbnb stay — $1500

photographer — $9000

bouquet, boutonniere, florals for ceremony and dinner — $1000

wedding dress — $3000

suit purchase — $1000

private chef — $400

5-6” custom cake — $350

hair + makeup — $300

Total: $17,438

$83 — marriage license

$300 — processing fee

$250 — land use fee

$500 — 3 night airbnb stay

$3000 — photographer

$300 — bouquet + boutonniere

$500 — wedding dress

$200 — suit rental

$200 — restaurant dinner + drinks

free — DIY hair + makeup

Total: $5,333

Interested in learning more about what you should budget for your elopement? Head on over to my elopement cost calculator to determine your potential elopement budget based off your elopement day vision.

How to Celebrate in Monument Valley

Campfire or bonfire under the stars.
Sunrise or sunset hot air balloon ride with champagne.
Luxury picnic with love letter exchange.
ATV ride or rock climbing.
Private horseback ride through the valley.
A desert-inspired painting session.
A private horse-drawn carriage ride through the valley.
Outdoor movie night under the stars.
A private Navajo flute serenade.
Attend a traditional Navajo weaving workshop
Arrange a private Navajo pottery class

Monument Valley Elopement Timeline Examples

Below you’ll find a few different examples for an elopement timeline. No elopement timeline will truly be the same as each couple decides to plan their day differently. Because there are so many options when planning your elopement, your timeline will be unique to your day. But, the examples will help give you an idea of what to expect for yours.

9 - 11 am : Breakfast Together, Enjoying Coffee with a View
11 am - 2 pm : Hair & Makeup/Getting Ready Together
2:30 pm : Depart from The View Hotel
2:30 - 4 pm : Cruise Valley Drive
4:30 pm : Ceremony at John Ford Point
5 - 6 pm : Couples Portraits
6:30 pm : Head Back to Room for Outfit Change
8 - 10:30 pm : Moonlight Tour of Monument Valley
DAY ONE :
9 - 11 am : Breakfast Together, Enjoying Coffee with a View
11 am - 2 pm : Hair & Makeup/Getting Ready
2:15 pm : First Look at Cabin
2:45 pm : Depart to Monument Valley
60 minute commute to Monument Valley
4 pm : Arrive at Monument Valley
4 - 5 pm : Cruise Valley Drive
5:30 pm : Ceremony at Artist’s Point
6 - 7 pm : Couples Portraits
7 pm : Head Back to Cabin
60 minute commute from Monument Valley to Cabin
8 pm : Arrive at Cabin
8 - 9 pm : Dinner Under the Stars
DAY TWO :
12:30 pm : Lunch in Monument Valley
2 - 5:30 pm: Backcountry horseback tour of Monument Valley

Monument Valley Elopement Packages

All elopement packages include:

All Travel Fees (prices don’t change per location!)
Customized Location Options
Permit Assistance
Personalized Vendor Options
Activity Suggestions Unique to You
An Elopement Timeline

Every elopement gallery includes high-resolution digital images with printing rights and a private online gallery to view, print, download, and share with your family and friends to relive the day with you - forever!

4 Hour ~ $3000

This package is perfect for couples who want a simple elopement experience. It includes getting ready, a short hike to the ceremony location, and couples portraits.

8 Hour ~ $5000

This package is perfect for couples who want to spend a day of adventure together, such as a long hike, off-roading, or visiting multiple locations. It's great for capturing the complete story of your elopement day. Typically, couples who are eloping and want to document their day for their friends and family who couldn't attend will choose this package. It's also ideal for couples bringing their friends and family along and would like to have their reception captured. Your reception could be as simple as having pizza with your loved ones or as elaborate as a private chef serving a three-course meal during a rehearsed dinner.

12 Hour ~ $7000

This package is perfect for couples wanting complete elopement coverage. It offers the ultimate storytelling experience, from waking up and having coffee with your partner to roasting marshmallows on a fire after sunset. This is an ideal option for couples looking to document their entire day with their guests included. Couples eloping alone also select this package to document every detail for their loved ones at home.

Multi-Day ~ $9000

Perfect for couples wanting a multi-day experience with a lot of adventure. This package is best if you want to elope in one epic location and experience another the following day. An example could include arriving at a secluded and romantic glamping accommodation and preparing for a sunset photo session, followed by a romantic candlelit dinner. On day 2, start your morning with a private and guided yoga session, a cultural workshop, and an ATV ride to a private couples massage with a sunset view.

Monument Valley is perfect for adventurous couples looking for a distinctive elopement experience. With its rich history and iconic views, Monument Valley allows couples to create memories that will last a lifetime. With careful planning and a spirit of adventure, couples can tailor their elopement to reflect their unique love story and create an experience that is truly unforgettable.