7 Hour Hunts Mesa Tour

If you’re looking for an adventure that combines breathtaking scenery, a touch of history, and a bit of rugged fun, then the 7 Hour Hunts Mesa Tour might just be your perfect match. While Monument Valley itself is a staple for many travelers, this tour stands out because it takes you off the beaten path to explore the lesser-known Mystery Valley, packed with natural wonders and ancient cliff dwellings.

What I really appreciate about this experience is how it offers both stunning views and educational insights—especially with a knowledgeable Navajo guide who brings the landscape’s stories to life. Plus, the small group size (maximum of 12 travelers) ensures a more intimate, relaxed vibe, perfect for soaking in the scenery and asking questions.

That said, a potential consideration is the physical aspect. You’ll be traveling in a rugged 4×4 and walking on some trails, so moderate physical fitness is recommended. If you’re comfortable with that, then this tour offers a genuinely immersive experience in one of the Southwest’s most iconic outdoor settings.

This tour feels ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, and anyone eager to see some of the most beautiful and lesser-seen corners of Monument Valley. If you’re after a full day of exploring with a dash of adventure and storytelling, this might be just the right fit.

Key Points

• Unique Experience: Explores lesser-known areas of Monument Valley, specifically Mystery Valley, not typically crowded.
• Stunning Natural Arches: Stops include Skull Arch, Honey Moon Arch, and Lone Pine Arch, among others.
• Educational Element: Learn about the ancient Anasazi people through ruins, petroglyphs, and pictographs.
• Kid-Friendly: Suitable for families, making it accessible if you’re traveling with children.
• Comfort & Convenience: Includes hotel pickup, bottled water, and a local Navajo guide.
• Value for Money: At $450 per person for a 7-hour tour, it offers a comprehensive and memorable experience.

Discovering the Wonders of Mystery Valley and Hunts Mesa

The 7 Hour Hunts Mesa Tour in Monument Valley is a chance to see some of the area’s most impressive sights—if not the most famous ones, then certainly some of the most intriguing. While Monument Valley is renowned worldwide for its dramatic but often crowded vistas, this tour takes you further into the quiet, mysterious corners that few visitors get to experience.

The Journey Begins at Dawn

The tour kicks off early in the morning, around three hours before sunrise. This timing is a real highlight because it grants you a front-row seat to witness Hunts Mesa as it awakens with the first light. Standing on the eastern cliffs of Hunts Mesa, you’ll watch the sun paint the landscape in warm hues—a moment that’s truly a photographer’s dream.

Your Navajo guide will share stories about the area, adding layers of meaning to what you see. We loved the way they brought the landscape to life, turning just another scenic viewpoint into an engaging historical experience.

The Scenic Drive and Hike through Mystery Valley

After soaking in the sunrise, you’ll traverse a 29-mile route through Mystery Valley, a less-frequented part of Monument Valley. This winding journey takes you through labyrinthine side canyons peppered with Anasazi ruins, petroglyphs, and pictographs. These ancient markings tell silent stories of the cliff dwellers who once called this place home.

One of the tour’s strengths is its variety of stops. You won’t just see the usual sights; instead, you’ll venture to little-known natural arches, including Skull Arch, Honey Moon Arch, Square House Ruins, Baby House Ruins, Lone Pine Arch, and the House of Many Hands Ruins. Each one has its own character and charm, and your guide will fill you in on their history and significance.

What Makes This Tour Special?

Traveling in a rugged 4×4 vehicle allows you to access areas that are otherwise difficult to reach, especially if you’re not keen on strenuous hikes. During the drive and walk, you’ll get a sense of the desert’s quiet beauty and the intricate geology that shapes these natural formations.

For those interested in archaeology or ancient cultures, the ruins and petroglyphs are fascinating. Our guide explained how the Anasazi left behind symbols and structures that still tell stories today. As one reviewer put it, their guide played a drum and sang, creating a uniquely personal connection to the landscape.

The Experience’s Pacing and Group Size

The tour runs for about seven hours, which is quite reasonable for exploring such a vast area without feeling rushed. With a maximum of 12 travelers, you’ll find the group size intimate enough to ask questions and share observations comfortably. This small-group aspect adds to the overall enjoyment, making it feel more like a personalized adventure.

The Highlights in Detail

Natural Arches and Ruins

Stop at Skull Arch, a striking formation that’s perfect for photos and pondering what natural forces carved it into this shape. The Honey Moon Arch offers another breathtaking view, one that’s both delicate yet monumental. Visiting Square House Ruins and the House of Many Hands lets you peer into the ancient past, imagining how these cliff dwellers used the land.

Petroglyphs and Pictographs

Throughout the route, you’ll see carvings and paintings etched into the rocks—silent witnesses to centuries of human history. These symbols provide clues about the people who lived here and their stories, adding a layer of depth to your exploration.

The Scenic Drive and Walking Trails

While the drive is rugged and bumpy in parts, the walking sections are generally manageable. You’ll be hiking along foot trails hugging the cliffs, with some stops offering panoramic views that stretch across the valley.

The Cultural Connection

Our review from a previous traveler mentioned how their guide played a drum and sang for the group, making the experience more personal and memorable. Such moments help bridge the gap between the ancient and present-day cultures, enriching your understanding of the Navajo perspective.

Is the Price Worth It?

At $450 per person, this tour might seem on the higher side, but it reflects the exclusivity, guide expertise, and the comprehensive nature of the experience. Given that the tour includes bottled water, hotel pickup, and the chance to see areas that most visitors miss, many find it to be a worthwhile investment.

One review mentioned that they loved discovering sites they wouldn’t have known about otherwise and even saw wild horses. It’s these unexpected moments, along with the natural beauty, that make the cost justifiable for many travelers.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

• Duration: About 7 hours, making it a full-day adventure but not overly taxing.
• Group Size: Limited to 12 travelers, ensuring personalized attention.
• Physical Fitness: Moderate fitness level recommended, as there’s walking and some driving over rough terrain.
• Meeting Point: Begins at Main Monument Valley Road; you can opt for hotel pickup, which adds convenience.
• Extras: Entrance fee to Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park ($8) is not included, so budget accordingly.
• Booking: On average, the tour is booked about 32 days in advance, so early planning is advisable.
• Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour, offering some flexibility.

What Past Travelers Say

The overwhelmingly positive reviews reinforce the tour’s quality. One reviewer summarized it as “seeing sites that we wouldn’t otherwise have known about,” highlighting the unique nature of the experience. They also mentioned the added bonus of witnessing wild horses and the personal touch of the guide playing drums and singing, which made the trip genuinely memorable.

The high rating of 4.9 out of 5 and a recommended rate of 97% suggest that most travelers walk away satisfied.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal if you’re someone who craves authentic, less crowded sights and appreciates detailed stories about the land’s history. It suits outdoor lovers, history buffs, and families looking for an engaging day that’s both educational and scenic.

If you’re comfortable with moderate physical activity and want to explore beyond the typical Monument Valley viewpoints, this tour will offer you a rare glimpse into the Valley’s hidden corners. It’s a chance to connect with the landscape in a meaningful way, guided by local experts who know and love the land.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s kid-friendly and a great activity for families, especially since it involves manageable walks and a scenic drive.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 7 hours, providing ample time to explore, relax, and enjoy the views.

What should I bring?
Bottled water is provided, but consider bringing sunscreen, a hat, comfortable shoes, and perhaps a camera for all the photo ops.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup, making logistics easier.

Do I need to pay the entrance fee?
Yes, the entrance fee to Monument Valley Tribal Park ($8 per person) is not included in the price.

What makes this tour different from other Monument Valley experiences?
It focuses on the lesser-visited Mystery Valley, with an emphasis on natural arches, ancient ruins, petroglyphs, and the stories behind them, offering a more intimate and educational experience.

Exploring the hidden gems of Monument Valley on this 7-hour journey offers a blend of natural beauty, history, and culture. If you’re after a meaningful adventure that takes you beyond the crowds, this tour is well worth considering.