Is it worth the time to just drive through Monument Valley on rt 163, without taking the unpaved loop or getting an Indian guide? We are driving from Page AZ to Cortez CO and MV is so close we'd like to see what we could without spending a half day or more.

YES it's worth the hour round trip drive. You can see a lot from Hwy 163. Go a little pass the road to the entrance station and there's a turn out on the right that will take you to some Indian Trading post stands, there's a great view looking back at Monument Valley there. If you decide that this place is to inviting, then you can drive yourself on many of the dirt roads in the park without a guide. They will give you a map at the entrance station. Even if you just drive out to Ford's Point and back you will get up close with the Mittens.

Utahtea

Many thanks utahea that was one answer I could not find anywhere else. Being our first trip west we really do appreciate the info from those who "have been there, done that"

If you do decide to take the tour (HIGHLY RECOMMEND) and you are undecided as to which one, Simpson's Trailhandlers (specifically tour guide Richard) is the most recommended on this board & a fascinating experience.

We did a horsebacking riding tour last fall and it was one of the highlights of our fall trip. It was one of the things I did not pre plan and turned out to be my favorite activity of the whole trip. After the horseback ride we then did a self drive in the valley and that is really worth it too.