As the state of Utah web site says, Valley of the Gods is a scenic backcountry area in southeastern Utah, near Mexican Hat. It is a hidden gem with scenery similar to that of nearby Monument Valley. Valley of the Gods offers isolated buttes, towering pinnacles and wide-open spaces that seem to go on forever. Driving distance to Monument Valley is 32 miles.

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For scale, note the white camper/RV in the center of the photo.
Valley of the Gods is located off of US-163, 15 miles west of Bluff, Utah, and 9 miles east of Mexican Hat. Access is along a 17-mile unpaved road. On October 1, 4-wheel drive was not necessary if you stuck to the road. In rainy or snowy conditions, 4WD would be highly recommended.

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View of Monument Valley on the horizon.
Valley of the Gods is free-access, open and usually not crowded. By contrast, Monument Valley, located in the Navajo Nation, is always crowded. There is an admission fee there, but also a visitors’ center with all the amenities. There is also an interesting display dedicated to the Navajo Code Talkers, who helped US forces during WWII.

Tags:   Valley of the Gods Utah Scenic Area D700

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There are many pull-outs for photographers and hikers. I stopped at many of them.

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A lady sits at her campsite, sketching the morning scene.

Tags:   Valley of the Gods Utah Scenic Area D700

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