Following up on Ellen's comments and putting things in proper perspective, there are only two reasons for staying in Goulding's Lodge:<BR>1. Its proximity to Monument Valley<BR>2. The opportunity to sit on your balcony and watch the sun set and rise over the monuments.<BR>The accommocations and food are far less important to the overall experience.

<BR><BR>Might I suggest taking a horse back ride through Monument Valley. This, to me, is the most impressive way to see the place. And, at least when I was last year, they let you gallop if you want to. There's no place else in the US where they'll let you gallop (too much liability).<BR><BR>Also, let me mention, take a short trip up to Valley of the Gods. Stunning place. And a lot less crowded than M.V.<BR><BR>Also, once we figured out about the food at Gouldings (after one meal), we headed up the road to Mexican Hat. Nice little Mexican restaurant there.

Wow, thanks everyone. This forum has been a great resource to help plan this trip. I'm quite excited now about this stop on our itinerary.<BR><BR>Ellen, glad to hear you've been inspired for a return visit. If you happen to be staying there the night of July 26, let me know!

As I am sitting here finalizing all aspects of our upcoming trip, I pulled this thread up . Anybody have anything new to add regarding Monument Valley or Gouldings. Out of the 8 different places we will be staying on this trip, it is the most expensive lodging we have booked. Based on what everyone has written, the view is worth a million bucks...

While we won't be there on July 26th, we will be there 2 nights later!

I have driven thru Monument Valley in a rental car (small SUV) and it was fine. The road is unpaved and pot-holey, but definitely doable if you go slow which you will to see the scenery. I'm sure the jeep tours are fun too, but I enjoyed doing our own thing. Whatever you decide to do, it will be awesome!!

I did not stay at Gouldings, but I think I need to go back and try it after all the enthusiastic recommendations!!

Katrn

So you had a small SUV to travel the unpaved, pot-holey roads of MV, do you see a problem doing it in a rental Dodge Intrepid?