Monument Valley in July

Hello All,

<br> I intend to travel to Monument Valley some time in July, from the Utah

side to the Arizona side. What are the best times to photograph here and the

best locations?

<br> Given that this is by far one of the most photographed locations in the

US, is there any other viewpoint other than the most photographed / most

obvious locations.

<br><br>Thanks for any responses in advance,

<br>-Naveen

The highway leading into Monument Valley, before you make the turn onto the smaller road leading to the gate can be great early in the moring. Remember that the gate into the valley does not open until about 9 am, but you can park outside the park and walk to the overlook of the mittens to shoot early in the morning. The gate to the Valley closes about 6 pm. In July, dawn comes very early and sunset is very late. You might want to consider getting a Navajo guide. Here is a website for a highly recommended guide. http://monumentvalley.com/ The photo was shot on July 4th from the highway mentioned above. The valley cut off by the bottom of the frame was full of campers.<div></div>

Monument Valley is a very special place. There is a "public" and a private part. You pay a nominal fee to enter the public part; however, if you are serious about photography consider a photo tour with Tom Phillips, a native american photographer. In relative terms the tours are not that expensive. Tom will take you where you cannot go without an indian guide AND he will get you there at the right time for photography. To find Tom, do a google search Tom Phillips Monument Valley and give hima a call.

 

Hope this help

Naveen,

you can actually get into the park @ 6AM. Be there by 5:45AM. Apart from the regular spots, take a guided tour. that should give you access to the totem poles (not allowed without a tour guide). you can also plan to hire a guide during sunrise to take you to the other side of the mittens..

Have a good trip.

PS: I just went there last long weekend and some shots are @ www.amitsaha.org.