Horseback Riding in Monument Valley: Our Experience + 4 Best Tours You’ll Love
Are you looking for the best experiences for horseback riding in Monument Valley? We’ve got you covered! As a traveling couple, we’ve experienced horseback riding in Monument Valley ourselves while on our USA road trip. We are really excited to share our unforgettable experience with you along with all of our tips to have the best time!
We were so excited to see Monument Valley at sunrise that we decided to go all in with a horse riding Monument Valley experience. But we were also a bit worried about picking the right tour for it! Note that horseback riding in Monument Valley is only possible with a tour and takes you through paths that are otherwise not open to the general public. This makes the experience even more unique and unforgettable.
In this post, we share both our horseback riding in Monument Valley Utah experience , which is one of the best date ideas in Utah and Arizona, and the best Monument Valley horseback tours so you can have an unforgettable experience together.
***Some of the links in this post are affiliate links meaning we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. This does not change the fact that we only recommend products, stays, activities and attractions we are satisfied with and all opinions expressed here are our own.
Our Top Pick for Horseback Riding in Monument Valley:
#1 Pick
Me and my wife figured that, on a trip to Monument Valley, you simply have to do horseback. We’re happy we booked a tour with Sacred for two hours as time just flew by! We took plenty of great photos on our relaxing but breathtaking journey. The guide was great and they seem to be treating the horses good as well. – Ken, USA (More reviews here)
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Best horseback riding in Monument Valley
In this section, we are sharing our favourite Monument Valley horseback riding tours. Whether you’re road tripping through Arizona and Utah, or specifically travelling to Monument Valley, these tours will be the highlights of your trip!
1. 2 Hour Monument Valley Horseback Tour, one of the best Monument Valley horse riding tours
⭐️ RATING: 4.5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2 hours | ✅ Book it!
Imagine you and your partner riding on a magical journey through the breathtaking landscapes of Monument Valley. This is what you’ll get with this 2-hour Monument Valley Horseback Tour, which is a 4.5-star rated adventure. Conveniently located, the stables are right next to the Monument Valley Visitor Center, ensuring easy access. This also ensures that you don’t have to arrange a shuttle to get down Valley Drive which is much better (See below for our experience)!
This ride offers an up-close view of the dramatic Mitten Buttes, Merrick Buttes, and the towering Sentinel Mesa along with other sand stone formations and plenty of trails.
Whatever your riding experience or skill level, you’ll be matched with a horse perfectly suited for you. Don’t worry though, from our own experience, the horses can handle even the toughest trails without being guided!
And what makes this experience truly special is the intimacy of the tour. With a maximum of just three travelers (sometimes four if all from the same group), it feels personal and serene. Safety is paramount, so helmets are provided to all riders along with cowboy hats for some fun photos. This particular journey is orchestrated by the renowned Sacred Monument Tours Monument Valley.
One thing to note about this horseback riding Monument Valley Utah tour: it’s best to arrive 30 minutes early to ensure ample preparation time.
So why do we definitely recommend this tour as our first pick?
Firstly, this horse back riding Monument Valley tour is intimate! In our own experience, it was just us and one other, and the feeling of freedom it granted was unparalleled. So we’re definitely pro-small group tours!
In such a small group, there’s also even a chance to gallop, which was one of our favourite parts of the tour.
Further, the tour’s start location, adjacent to the visitor centre, eliminates any logistical hassles. You won’t need to arrange for a shuttle. You can simply park by the stables.
Two hours strikes the perfect balance — any longer can become wearying, while shorter durations might leave you feeling unfulfilled and wanting more time to really absorb the experience. The exclusive trails you’ll traverse aren’t open to the general public, ensuring a unique experience.
And if you choose the earliest tour at 8 am during October, you might even witness the tail-end of a majestic sunrise. All in all, it’s an adventure you and your partner shouldn’t miss.
These are all the reasons we highly recommend this tour! But here are some reviews from recent travellers so you don’t have to only trust our word:
Robert was a genial and knowledgeable guide. The horses were gentle and well maintained. The views were astounding, and the trails occasionally challenging. We enjoyed the ride immensely. – Leon, USA (Read more Sacred Monument Tours reviews here)
Me and my wife figured that, on a trip to Monument Valley, you simply have to do horseback. We’re happy we booked a tour with Sacred for two hours as time just flew by! We took plenty of great photos on our relaxing but breathtaking journey. The guide was great and they seem to be treating the horses good as well. – Ken, USA (Read more reviews here)
What’s included: cowboy hats and helmets, suitable for all levels, Mitten Butte, Merrick Butte, Sentinel Mesa and more viewpoints, time for photos, possibility to gallop, small group (MAX 3 people)
2. Upper Monument Valley Horseback Riding Tour
⭐️ RATING: 4.5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 1 hour | ✅ Book it!
For couples seeking a unique adventure in the iconic landscapes of Monument Valley, the Upper Monument Valley Horseback Riding Tour is a splendid choice. With a remarkable 4.5-star rating, this one-hour journey offers an experience that’s both intimate and unforgettable.
Particularly if you or your partner are on the older side or tend to experience muscle aches, this one hour long tour is tailored to ensure comfort while not compromising on the visual spectacle.
As you ride through the Upper Part of Monument Valley, you’ll witness nature’s masterpieces including the Sleeping Bear, Sitting Hen, and Eagle Mesa. These, along with numerous unique red sandstone formations, will definitely make your eyes sparkle like it did ours.
The exclusivity of a private tour means it’s just you, your partner, and the vast expanse of nature – adding a layer of intimacy to the adventure. You can also choose a Monument Valley sunrise horseback riding tour or even at sunset!
Similarly to the sunrise in Arches National Park, the sunrise in Monument Valley is absolutely stunning. The valley, under the soft hues of the rising or setting sun, offers a mesmerizing backdrop, making it a date you and your partner will cherish forever.
Sunset riding horseback is wordless… and Louis is the best guide possible! We appreciate so much this experience. We suggest everyone to do it. – Salvatore
My family and I had an amazing experience with Luis. The horse riding was very beautiful and exciting. Luis is very nice and keeps checking if everyone is doing okay and helps us when needed. – Vera, USA
What’s included: Sleeping Bear, Sitting Hen, Eagle Mesa, Upper part of Monument Valley, private tour, Monument Valley horseback riding sunset and sunrise tours available
3. 1 Hour Monument Valley Horseback Tour
⭐️ RATING: 4.5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 1 hour | ✅ Book it!
For a brief yet immersive escape into the captivating landscape of Monument Valley, we recommend the 1 Hour Monument Valley Horseback Tour for you and your partner.
This highly-rated tour, boasting a commendable 4.5 stars, ensures an intimate experience with its small group setting of a maximum of three people. Courtesy of Sacred Monument Tours, riders are offered the choice of wearing provided helmets or embracing the authentic feel with cowboy hats.
As you embark on this journey, marvel at the iconic Mitten Buttes, Merrick Butte, and the towering Sentinel Mesa. One of the thrilling aspects of this tour is the possibility to gallop through the majestic terrains, given the guide’s permission.
Speaking of guides, many adventurers have sung praises for Dion, who not only showcases the mesmerizing terrains but also enriches the experience with his insightful narratives. It’s an hour of awe and adventure that we believe you and your partner will cherish.
This is definitely a great tour, similar to our first pick, except it’s shorter. So we recommend this one if you’re short on time or if your physical condition might suffer from a longer tour.
What an amazing way to see a portion of monument valley and experience a bit of what life would have been like years ago. Our guide was a great guy and provided lots of insights and stories. Would highly recommend. – Terri Ann, USA
Our ride was WONDERFUL! I rode Ten Horn ( I think I’m remembering correctly) and my guy rode Monte, who we loved. Monte is QUITE a funny one. Ten Horn is tall and beautiful. Dion was our guide, and was amazing! We actually got to run on our horses after we gave our permission to do so. We learned a lot of history from Dion that we’ll value. A must do! Ty Dion, Ten Horn, and Monte!! – Elizabeth, USA
What’s included: helmets, cowboy hats, small group (Max 3 people), Mitten Buttes, Merrick Butte and Sentinel Mesa
🗓 Check availability and this horseback riding Monument Valley price here
4. Wild West Trailride Tours
If you’re seeking an alternative horseback riding experience near Monument Valley, we wanting to touch on the Wild West Trail Rides Monument Valley Tours for you and your partner. Nestled in Mexican Hat, a short distance from Monument Valley, this tour has garnered positive reviews from fellow adventurers.
From our personal experience, there are a couple of aspects that some might find inconvenient. Firstly, they only accept bookings by phone or in-person, which might be a bit inconvenient when planning a trip. But if you’re in the area and have some flexibility, a prior visit could prove worthwhile.
Secondly, while the trailride offers magnificent vistas of Monument Valley, it operates on the outskirts. This means you might not get as up close to the iconic buttes as some other tours offer. For comparison, our tour took us in the valley of Monument Valley where we rode between the buttes (while keeping some protective distance of course). We felt truly immersed within Monument Valley rather than looking at it from the outside.
Nevertheless, the panoramic beauty of the valley remains undeniable, making it a worthy option for those looking for something a tad off the beaten path.
🗓 Contact: +1 435-459-2626
Can you do an overnight horseback riding in Monument Valley?
For couples yearning for an overnight horseback adventure in Monument Valley, we’re sorry to say it’s not currently an option. From our own exploration and the information we gathered, the latest available horseback riding tour in Monument Valley is at sunset.
However, there’s a silver lining for you and your partner. We personally recommend embarking on the sunset horseback ride to experience the valley’s mesmerizing hues. After your ride, consider a cozy night at The View Hotel, if they have availability. It’s a wonderful way to immerse yourselves in the beauty of Monument Valley, even after the sun dips below the horizon.
Is horseback riding in Monument Valley romantic?
Horse tours with a partner are always super romantic. Here’s what you can expect by horseback riding in Monument Valley in terms of romance.
Sunrise and Sunset Rides for Couples
There’s hardly anything more romantic than witnessing the first or last rays of the sun painting the sky with a palette of colors. In Monument Valley, you and your partner have the opportunity to take a horseback ride at either sunrise or sunset. We personally recommend the sunrise ride, as we experienced it, and found it exceptionally special.
Nature’s Connection
Immersing yourselves in the beauty of the Monument Valley landscape, and feeling the freedom of the open terrain, can help you deeply connect with nature and with each other. We’ve done several once-in a lifetime activities together such as taking a private tour to the Grand Canyon from Las Vegas or watching the Oahu sunsets. There’s always something special about leaving the city and reconnecting with nature.
Sharing such profound moments will help both of you reconnect and create a unique bond. It’s a shared experience in one of the most sacred and magnificent places on Earth.
A Cultural Journey Together
Horseback riding in Monument Valley is not just about the ride, but also about understanding and immersing in the rich cultural tapestry of Monument Valley. It’s a bit comparable to visiting Lower and Upper antelope Canyon, or even Bryce Canyon and the Grand Canyon. It’s not just about where you are but what it represents, the cultural journey and the power of nature. Together, you’ll embark on a journey, learning about another culture, which can be both enlightening and bonding.
Grounding and Bonding
After the ride, we found ourselves more grounded, with a renewed sense of appreciation for the world around us. We’re confident you and your partner will emerge from this experience feeling even more connected to each other, carrying forward a memory that will be cherished for years to come.
When we visited Monument Valley, we were on our way to Antelope Canyon from Bluff, but it’s also on your way from Moab to the Grand Canyon and Page Arizona, so we highly recommend to make it part of your itinerary if you’re in the area. The grounding and bonding experience is worth it!
Our experience horseback riding in Monument Valley
Our experience booking our horseback riding tour in Monument Valley
When we decided to embark on this adventure, we made a spontaneous choice and booked on-site the night before our sunrise ride. While it worked out in our favor, we wouldn’t recommend this approach. Given Monument Valley’s popularity, it’s quite easy to face full bookings. From our experience, we suggest you plan ahead and book online in advance to secure your spot and avoid any disappointments.
Our shuttle experience on the day
On the day of our ride, we arrived bright and early for the sunrise. We didn’t know but the shuttle doesn’t start until later and we had to ride down to the Valley Drive. However, considering the previous day’s storms, driving our own car down the trails wasn’t feasible due to the mud.
After some back and forth, given the delay in the shuttle’s arrival and our booking specifically for the sunrise tour, we had to quickly find an alternate solution. Thankfully, our Navajo guide stepped in and offered to drive us down, after a bit of negotiation. It turned into an unexpected adventure, but we did wonder at one point if we were going to miss the sunrise which would have sucked considering we had paid for that.
For smoother experiences, we recommend booking this experience which has a clear meeting point and doesn’t require you to go down Valley Drive.
Our horseback riding in Monument Valley experience
After a bumpy ride down, we reached the ranch with the horses. The rustic ranch introduced us to our friendly Navajo guides, with Adel leading our tour. Suprisingly, there was a dry toilet there, though no door was attached to it but it was helpful (especially for Marie lol).
As luck would have it, the other couple that was supposed to join us was delayed, turning our group ride into a private experience. The next two hours were nothing short of magical. As soon as we hopped on the horses, we could feel it was the experience of a lifetime.
Riding through Monument Valley during sunrise, passing the iconic Buttes and the John Wayne trail, was an unparalleled experience. Adel, with his vast knowledge, guided us through secluded trails, sharing insights about local flora and their significance.
The serenity of the place gave a sense of peace and grounding within us. At certain stretches, Adel allowed us to gallop, which was some of my favorite parts of the ride. It allowed us to really feel immersed in the landscape, not just as tourists but as humans.
To this day, it is that feeling of freedom, riding in alchemy with my horse that I remember very clearly. Along the way, we paused to capture these memories with photographs.
Our horseback riding in Monument Valley remains one of our most cherished memories. The blend of nature’s beauty and the enriching cultural insights from our guide made it an experience of a lifetime.
We felt a deep connection with the environment and came away with our spirits lifted. From our adventure, we’d recommend the two-hour tour, as it allows you ample time to immerse yourself in the experience.
A one-hour tour, though delightful, might leave you yearning for more. If you and your partner are considering this, we wholeheartedly encourage you to go for it. It’s genuinely a 10/10 experience.
Can you tour Monument Valley on your own?
Absolutely! You and your partner have the freedom to drive down to Monument Valley and explore its wonders by yourselves. It offers the flexibility to navigate the scenic trails and admire the majestic buttes, mesas, and panoramic views at your own pace. While a guide can provide insights and unique narratives, the beauty of the landscape is something you can appreciate independently.
Do you need a tour for Monument Valley?
While we value the depth that a guided tour can bring, it’s not strictly necessary. The landmarks and natural formations of Monument Valley are accessible, allowing couples like you to embark on a self-guided journey.
That said, if you do have the means both financial and timely to take a tour, we recommend it. And that, whether it’s a horseback riding tour or a car/walking tour.
Monument Valley on your own
Valley Drive on your own
Monument Valley offers the iconic 17-mile loop known as the Valley Drive, a scenic journey that takes you and your partner past its most celebrated sites and majestic buttes.
This dirt and gravel route, originating and culminating at the Monument Valley Visitor Centre, is perfectly manageable for self-driving. When we visited Monument Valley, we noticed even lower cars navigating the slightly bumpy terrain without difficulty; the key is to maintain a slower pace.
However, a word of caution: while a regular vehicle is often sufficient, after rainfall, the road can get muddy. In such conditions, a 4×4 might be necessary to avoid getting stuck. In extreme cases, if the path becomes too muddy, the loop drive may be closed off to all vehicles, including 4x4s.
It’s worth noting that while the Valley Drive is accessible for self-exploration, the backcountry areas of Monument Valley require a tour to visit. But if you and your partner are keen to understand more about the sites you’re observing without hiring a personal guide, we found a nifty solution.
We recommend this affordable self-guided tour available, which can be easily accessed on your phone, enhancing your journey with rich insights.
Self-guided hiking trails in Monument Valley
For couples seeking a hands-on exploration of Monument Valley, the Wildcat Trail offers the perfect opportunity. It stands as the sole self-guided trail in the area. This 3.2-mile loop gracefully winds around the iconic Mitten Buttes and Merrick Buttes.
It’s a serene way to intimately connect with the region’s natural wonders, offering uninterrupted moments to soak in its grandeur. If you and your partner are eager to tread a path that lets you dictate the pace and experience, we can’t recommend the Wildcat Trail enough.
Alternatively, take a tour
Express Safari Tour
⭐️ RATING: 55/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 3.5 hour | ✅ Book it!
If you and your partner have an appetite for the roads less traveled and sights not often seen, taking a tour is the way to travel through Monument Valley. You can venture out on the Lower Monument Valley tour. This tour is led by a knowledgeable Navajo guide and boasts a stellar 5-star rating.
Traveling in an open-air vehicle, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the iconic Mitten Buttes, the picturesque John Ford’s Point, mesmerizing Yeibichai, the striking Three Sisters Spires, and the majestic Elephant Butte. You also have the opportunity to visit a traditional hogan and be serenaded by a Navajo musical performance was genuinely heartwarming.
Keeping the experience intimate and personal, the tour ensures smaller groups. And for those concerned about the essentials, they’ve got you covered with bottled water to stay hydrated.
Starting at The View Hotel, the tour spans approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes. This tour is more than just sightseeing; it’s about immersing oneself in the culture, history, and majesty of Monument Valley. It’s great for couples looking to create shared memories in this iconic landscape, especially if you’re not comfortable with horses.
Our guide Toney gave us a tour of the valley we will never forget. He told us about the geology and the local inhabitants, also the history. He knew all best places and advised on where we could get the best pictures. He sang an Indian hunting song whilst drumming. It was the best tour we have ever done. – Roger, USA
Fantastic! We went with a local tour guide from this area. The car was pleasant, the driver was careful. First 3 stops were accessible for everyone and then we could go with the local guide in the restricted area. Every stop he explained us interesting things, and answered our questions. He showed us the best places and where to take the best photos! Below one of the arches he plaid a whistle. As we were laying and facing the opening from the arch! I would recommend this to everyone. – Gerrie, USA
Valley drive Monument Valley map
See here, the map of the Valley Drive in Monument Valley:
Final thoughts: Horseback riding in Monument Valley
Horseback riding in Monument Valley offers a unique and intimate way to explore this iconic desert landscape. Guided by local Navajo experts, you and your partner can ride through the valley’s striking red sandstone buttes and vast mesas, experiencing the profound beauty and history that permeates this sacred land.
Horseback riding Navajo Nation Tribal Park experiences are even better early or later in the day. Sunrise and sunset horseback Monument Valley rides add an extra layer of magic (which we recommend), casting the terrain in a mesmerizing golden hue. Whether you’re a seasoned equestrian or a beginner, the experience promises a deep connection with nature, a glimpse into Navajo culture, and memories that will last a lifetime.
Horseback riding in Monument Valley FAQs
Absolutely! Guided horseback tours are available, offering riders a unique way to explore the breathtaking terrain of Monument Valley.
Monument Valley itself isn’t known for wild horses. The horses you may encounter belong to the local Navajo community and are well-managed.
Any questions on horseback riding in Monument Valley ? Drop them in the comments or on insta @twolostexplorers and we will get back to you asap.
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We are Mary and Eric, the founders of Be Right Back, a blog dedicated to romance around the globe and at home.
We are Mary and Eric, the founders of Be Right Back, a blog dedicated to romance around the globe and at home. With over 10 years of experience in dating and traveling to romantic places, we share our favorite date ideas and romantic destinations to help couples level up their relationships. Having lived in and traveled through the USA, we also share our favourite things to do in the States.
With 70,000 monthly readers and 16,000 followers on social media, Be Right Back is your go-to resource for romantic trip ideas and couple activities at home and abroad.