Tear Drop Arch Tour (3SNGT Tear Drop Arch)

If you’re planning a trip to Monument Valley and are curious about spotting the famous Tear Drop Arch, this small-group guided tour offers a pretty unique way to experience this lesser-known gem. While the tour isn’t the typical Monument Valley experience, it’s perfect for those who want a more intimate, local perspective on the area. We’ve checked out the details and gathered insights to help you decide if it fits your adventure style.

Two things we really like about this tour are the personalized attention from the knowledgeable Navajo guides and the immense scenic beauty of the remote spots outside the usual park. The guides are locals, so their stories and tips make the experience more authentic. That said, a potential downside is the extra hike involved—this isn’t a stroll in the park, so you’ll want to be comfortable with some moderate walking and uneven trails.

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of light hiking, scenic drives, and off-the-beaten-path discoveries. If you’re eager to see the Tear Drop Arch along with archeological ruins and enjoy a more personalized tour experience, this could be just the ticket. It’s also a good pick if you’re into exploring beyond the standard viewpoints.

Key Points

• Small-group format provides more personal guidance and a better chance to ask questions.
• Guided hikes help prevent getting lost in unfamiliar terrain, especially outside the main park.
• Remote location offers unique views of Monument Valley from higher vantage points.
• Extra adventure includes a scenic drive through sandy Horse Canyon, accessible only with a local guide and 4WD.
• Cost sits at $90 per person, which is quite reasonable considering the personalized experience.
• Tour duration is about 2 hours, making it a manageable add-on to your day.

What to Expect from the Tear Drop Arch Tour

A Unique Access Point to Monument Valley’s Hidden Spots

Unlike the main Navajo Tribal Park, the Tear Drop Arch is located in southeast Horseshoe Canyon outside the usual park boundaries. That means it’s a bit of an adventure just to get there. The tour starts at the Monument Valley Visitor Center parking lot, making it convenient to meet your guide. From there, you’ll venture into a less trodden area, which many visitors miss, but which offers some of the most striking views.

The Scenic Drive through Horse Canyon

One of the highlights is the drive through Horse Canyon, which is outside the Navajo Tribal Park. Keep in mind, this part of the journey is very sandy and only accessible with a 4-wheel-drive vehicle and a knowledgeable guide. The ride itself is scenic, with the canyon walls framing your path and the landscape opening up to reveal the Tear Drop Arch.

The Hike to Tear Drop Arch

Once you reach the area, it’s time for a hiking segment that’s classified as easy to medium difficulty. The trail isn’t overly strenuous, but you’ll be walking on uneven terrain and possibly loose rocks. The path leads you through rugged desert scenes until you arrive at the arch. The sight of the distinctive Tear Drop Arch—a natural formation that’s both delicate and impressive—is well worth the effort.

Exploring the Archeological Ruins

Not just the arch itself, but nearby archeological ruins add an extra layer of interest. These remnants provide clues about the area’s past and give you a richer context for the landscape. The guide will likely share local stories and insights into their significance, enriching your understanding of the area.

The View from the Lookout Points

Before or after the hike, you’ll have opportunities to enjoy panoramic views of Monument Valley from higher vantage points. The lookout points offer sweeping views of the iconic buttes spread across the horizon, especially beautiful when the light hits just right. Some reviews have mentioned the view from these spots as “very beautiful” and “a higher perspective of the valley.”

The Trip Logistics: What You Need to Know

Duration and Group Size

The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, making it a manageable excursion that won’t eat up your whole day. The group is intentionally kept small—up to 20 travelers—which means more personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere. If you’re traveling solo, it’s worth noting that there’s a minimum of 2 participants, but the company occasionally accommodates single travelers if they join scheduled tours.

Pricing and Value

At $90 per person, this tour offers a fairly good value for the personal guidance, exclusive access, and scenic highlights. While it doesn’t include the Navajo Nation Park entrance fee, that’s a separate cost you’ll need to cover, either online or at the entrance. Keep in mind, this fee is not included in the tour price.

Meeting Point and Timing

The tour begins at the Monument Valley Tribal Park parking lot—specifically, not at the Welcome Center but a designated pick-up spot just a few miles east. It’s crucial to confirm your arrival time because timing is key, especially considering daylight hours and sunset times, which vary seasonally. The company emphasizes the importance of being on time because late arrivals can’t be rescheduled easily.

Weather and Clothing

Since the tour involves hiking and driving through sandy terrain, wear sturdy shoes, preferably hiking boots or comfortable shoes suited for walking on uneven surfaces. Summers can be hot, so dress appropriately—think breathable clothing, hat, and sunscreen. In winter, it can get cold, so bring layers or blankets if needed. The company provides blankets for enclosed vehicles, but you’ll want to dress warmly if doing the open-air option.

Accessibility and Physical Fitness

Travelers should have moderate physical fitness, as there’s some walking involved on rocky or sandy ground. The terrain isn’t overly challenging but could be tricky for those with mobility issues.

Additional Tips

• Since cell service can be spotty, bring a way to stay in touch or communicate — the company offers text messaging and email as contact options.
• Remember, gratuities are appreciated, and guides generally rely on tips for their livelihood.
• Pets are welcome if you make arrangements in advance—check the main website for pet-friendly policies.

The Pros and Cons: Honest Insights

What travelers love:
Many reviews mention how knowledgeable and friendly the guides are, making the experience more meaningful. The scenic views from various lookout points are often described as “beautiful” and “breathtaking.” The small group setting enhances the feeling of exploring a secret corner of Monument Valley rather than a crowded tour.

Potential drawbacks:
Some might find the scenic drive through Horse Canyon a bit sandy and rough, especially if they’re not fans of off-road driving or have mobility concerns. Also, since the tour is outside the main Tribal Park, you won’t see the iconic Monument Valley but rather a more remote and rugged part of the landscape.

Worth noting:
The price is reasonable for the private, guided nature of the trip, but it does not include park entrance fees. If you’re after a quick, easy sightseeing tour, this might feel a bit more involved than you want. Conversely, if you love light hikes and off-the-beaten-path views, it’s a real treat.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers who enjoy a mix of scenic driving and light hiking, and who value local, expert guidance. It’s ideal if you want to see a different side of Monument Valley—away from crowds and in a more intimate setting. Nature lovers, history buffs, and those comfortable with some physical activity will find this tour quite rewarding.

If you’re traveling with children, keep in mind the moderate physical effort involved. If your group prefers a very relaxed, easy stroll, this might be slightly more demanding, but generally manageable for most moderate fitness levels.

FAQ

Is the Tear Drop Arch Tour suitable for families?
It’s generally suitable for those with moderate physical fitness. The hike involves uneven terrain, so small children or anyone with mobility issues should evaluate their comfort level beforehand.

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes Navajo guides, all transportation within Horse Canyon, and scenic stops. Park entrance fees are not included and must be purchased separately.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, which makes it a manageable addition to your day in Monument Valley.

Where do I meet the guide?
The meeting point is at the Monument Valley Tribal Park parking lot, not the Welcome Center. Confirm your exact location when booking.

What should I wear?
Dress in comfortable, sturdy shoes suitable for hiking, and wear layers to adapt to temperature changes. Bring sunscreen and a hat for sun protection.

Can I book this tour as a solo traveler?
Yes, but note that there’s a 2-person minimum for bookings. Sometimes, singles can join scheduled tours, so it’s worth calling ahead.

Is the tour pet-friendly?
Yes, as the company is pet-friendly; just be sure to check their policies and let them know in advance.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. In case of cancellation due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a more personal, off-the-beaten-path experience in Monument Valley, this Tear Drop Arch tour hits many marks. Guided by locals, you’ll get to explore a scenic, less crowded part of the landscape, with the added bonus of some archeological insights. It’s a bit more involved than a basic sightseeing drive, but that’s part of what makes it special.

The combination of stunning views, knowledgeable guides, and a small group creates an experience that’s both intimate and informative. For those who enjoy light hikes and exploring hidden corners in a scenic desert landscape, it’s definitely worth considering. Just be prepared for a bit of sandy driving and walking, and make sure to confirm your timings and park fees ahead of time.

This tour offers a solid balance of adventure and education, making it an excellent choice for travelers who want to go beyond the typical Monument Valley stops and dive a little deeper into the area’s natural beauty and culture.

Remember: Always double-check the weather, pack appropriately, and arrive on time—that’s the best way to ensure you get the most out of this memorable outing.