October 7, 2019, Mexican Hat, UT-
Several years ago, Penny and I took a guided jeep tour of Monument Valley, another of the Southwest’s signature geological wonders. We encountered rock formations which resembled all manner of creatures, both past and present. There are, of course, myths and legends which explain these formations, though geology does quite well to keep things in the realm of reality.
My drive along U.S. 163, in northeast Arizona and southeast Utah, offered a glimpse of the formations which are visible from the road and some of which allowed for a better view, from overlooks.
The Mittens and Agathla Peak are the southernmost, and among the most famous, of the “monuments”, which are mostly sky islands that remain from the Oligocene Period, nearly 25 million years ago.
Various ridges also remain from the Oligocene.
This pinnacle resembles an otherworldly sentinel.
Agathla is 7055 feet in elevation. It is what’s left of an ancient volcano.
This butte is also part of the same dormant volcanic outcropping.
Second from right, the column looks like two spouses, engaged in a conversation. The column to the far left resembles two onlookers.
No matter how captivating and iconic the red columns and benches look, one must always remember that this is a working environment. Ranching is a huge enterprise for Dineh people, struggling to thrive in an extremely arid environment, with poor soil.
As the valley rises, and gets closer to the San Juan River, the promontories become more spread out, but no less majestic.
Monument Valley, even fenced off, has a decluttering effect on one’s psyche.
Monument Valley is part of a wonderful trip we took in the late 40’s or early 50’s. We have a photo, taken by our dad, of my sister with one hand against each of the mittens! It is a spectacular place — one that I’d like to revisit sometime.
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There are more amenities in that area now. It would be an enjoyable trip, I’m sure.
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Not the least of which is a paved road! When we were there, there was a narrow sand/gravel road out as far as Gouldings, and then I believe headed northwards towards Medicine Hat. It is an incredible place!
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All the main access roads are paved now, except the road between Goosenecks and Natural Bridges, which is not suitable for RV’s or large trucks. That’s a whole other matter, though. Monument Valley is astonishing.
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A geological wonder to be sure! I am always fascinated by the size of the outcroppings and buttes… Your photos really show off the height and depth of the landscape!
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The only drawback, from the road, is that so much is fenced off. I will actually get closer, on my next visit, which will take in the Navajo Tribal Park.
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