Quick Facts:
Location: Bears Ears National Monument, Mexican Hat, Utah
Coordinates: East Entrance: 37.235300315539284, -109.81462109883668
West Entrance 37.264339403184366, -109.93184284295073
Length: 16 Miles
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation Gain: 1,600’
Dog Friendly: Yes
Introduction:
If you’re looking for an off-road adventure that’s big on scenery and light on crowds, Valley of the Gods Road is your ticket to a cinematic desert drive. This 16 mile dirt road winds through Bears Ears National Monument, weaving around towering sandstone buttes and monoliths. It’s less crowded than Monument Valley but just as stunning, making it a perfect choice for those seeking solitude and sweeping desert vistas.
Getting to Valley of the Gods Road:
Valley of the Gods Road is located just north of Mexican Hat, Utah. From US-163, turn onto Valley of the Gods Road, which is clearly marked by a small sign. You can enter from either the east or west side of the loop. The eastern entrance is closer to Bluff, while the western entrance is near Mexican Hat.
If you’re coming from Mexican Hat, drive north on US-163 for about 10 miles and turn right onto the west entrance. If you’re starting from Bluff, take UT-261 for about 15 miles and enter from the east. The road is unpaved but well-maintained in dry conditions. After heavy rain, it can become muddy and impassable, so check weather conditions before heading out.
Landscape Description:
Valley of the Gods Road delivers a visual feast of towering sandstone formations, sprawling desert plains, and surreal rock spires. The road winds through a series of stunning rock formations with names like Lady in the Bathtub, Setting Hen Butte, and Castle Butte. Each turn offers a new perspective, with the formations taking on different shapes as the light shifts throughout the day.
The landscape is beautiful desert terrain, red sand, prickly pear cactus, and endless blue skies. In spring, wildflowers flood the landscape, adding vibrant pops of color against the red rock backdrop. Sunset is the real showstopper, as the buttes glow in fiery oranges and reds, casting long shadows that dance across the valley floor.
You’ll want to stop often to take in the views and snap photos, but keep an eye on the road. The dirt track can be rocky and rutted in spots, requiring slow, careful driving.
Trail Difficulty and Length:
Valley of the Gods Road is a 16 mile loop that can be driven in about two hours without stops. The road is considered easy in terms of off-roading difficulty. While a high-clearance vehicle is recommended, four-wheel drive is not strictly necessary in dry conditions.
After rain, the road can become muddy and slick, turning some sections into a slippery, challenging mess. If the forecast calls for rain, it’s best to postpone your drive, as the clay surface can quickly become impassable.
Drive slowly and keep an eye out for dips, washouts, and sharp turns. The road is narrow in places, so passing other vehicles can be tricky. Take it slow, stay alert, and enjoy the ride.
Dog-Friendly?
Yes, Valley of the Gods Road is dog-friendly, but keep your pup leashed and close by when stopping for photos or short walks. The desert terrain can be harsh on paws, with sharp rocks and prickly plants scattered throughout the area. Bring plenty of water for your dog, as the desert heat can be intense, even in cooler months.
Park Rules and Regulations:
Valley of the Gods Road is managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), so there are some basic rules to follow. Stay on the designated road to avoid damaging fragile desert vegetation. Do not drive off-road, as the desert landscape is extremely sensitive and easily scarred.
Camping is permitted in designated pullouts along the road, but there are no services or amenities. Pack out all trash, respect quiet hours, and avoid making campfires, as the area is prone to wildfires.
Drones are not permitted without a special use permit, and commercial photography requires BLM approval.
Other Trails Nearby:
If you’re craving more adventure after your drive, head south to the Goosenecks State Park, where you can gaze down into the meandering San Juan River as it carves its way through a dramatic canyon. The park is just 10 miles from the western entrance of Valley of the Gods Road and offers some of the best sunset views in the area.
For a more challenging off-road experience, consider the Moki Dugway, a steep, winding gravel road that climbs 1,200 feet to the top of Cedar Mesa. The views are breathtaking, but the drive is not for the faint of heart.
Non-Driving Attractions:
After exploring Valley of the Gods, head to Bluff, a charming town with a rich pioneer history. Stop by the Bluff Fort Historic Site, where you can walk through restored pioneer cabins and learn about the settlers who crossed the San Juan River in the late 1800s.
For a bite to eat, swing by Twin Rocks Café, known for its Navajo tacos and fry bread. The café is located beneath towering sandstone spires, making it a perfect spot to relax and take in the scenery.
If you’re up for a longer drive, make your way to Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park, where you can see iconic rock formations like the Mittens, Merrick Butte, and John Ford’s Point.
Best Time to Visit:
The best time to drive Valley of the Gods Road is in spring or fall, when temperatures are mild and the sky is clear. Spring brings blooming wildflowers and cooler days, making it ideal for exploring the valley at a leisurely pace.
Summer can be brutally hot, with temperatures soaring into the 90s. If you visit in summer, plan your drive for early morning or late afternoon to avoid the worst of the heat.
Winter offers cooler temperatures but can also bring occasional snow and ice. The road can become muddy and impassable after rain or snow, so check the weather and road conditions before heading out.
Sunset is particularly stunning in Valley of the Gods, as the red rocks glow with intense, fiery hues. The light show is best viewed from one of the many pullouts along the route, so plan your drive to coincide with the golden hour for the most dramatic views.
Still Want More?
For those who want to capture these breathtaking views and bring a piece of nature home, Unicorn Adventure offers high-quality nature photography prints. Check out their collection and find the perfect image to remind you of your hiking experience!
