Valley of the Gods Scenic Loop Self Guided Audio Driving Tour

Explore one of the Southwest’s best-kept secrets on this unforgettable self-guided driving tour through Valley of the Gods. Often called “Mini Monument Valley,” this 17-mile scenic loop delivers towering red rock formations, wide-open desert landscapes, and incredible viewpoints—without the crowds or entrance fees. As you drive, your personal guide brings the landscape to life with fascinating stories—from the prospector who named the valley to the uranium boom that once transformed this quiet desert into a land of opportunity. Discover iconic formations like the Seven Sailors, Castle Butte, and the whimsical Lady in the Bathtub, while learning how ancient seas shaped this dramatic terrain millions of years ago. With GPS-triggered audio, stories play automatically as you drive, so you can focus on the views and explore at your own pace. Perfect for road trip travelers, photographers, and adventure seekers, this tour turns a scenic drive into a deeper, more memorable experience.

1. 1

   Stop 1

   10 min

   Begin your journey at the gateway to this 17-mile scenic dirt road, where towering red rock formations rise from the desert—often called a quieter, crowd-free version of Monument Valley.

2. 2

   Stop 2

   40 min

   You'll follow Valley of the Gods Road through the heart of the park and hear the stories and history.

3. 3

   Stop 3

   10 min

   One of the most iconic formations—seven towering rock spires standing like ships or figures in a row, inspiring the valley’s mythological name.

4. 4

   Stop 4

   10 min

   A playful rock formation resembling a hen sitting on her nest, showcasing how imagination has shaped many of the valley’s unique names.

5. 5

   Stop 5

   10 min

   Standing tall near the “hen,” this formation completes the scene, like a watchful rooster guarding the desert landscape.

6. 6

   Stop 6

   10 min

   Named after the beloved Doctor Who character Amelia Pond, this striking formation gained its name when the BBC filmed scenes here for the iconic sci-fi series. With its otherworldly red rock landscape, it’s easy to see why filmmakers chose this spot to stand in for an alien planet. As you take in the view, imagine time travelers stepping out of the TARDIS into this vast desert—where towering formations and endless horizons feel like they belong to another world.

7. 7

   Stop 7

   10 min

   Get the best views on the drive

8. 8

   Stop 8

   10 min

   One of the most recognizable formations, resembling a medieval fortress rising from the desert floor with layered sandstone walls.

9. 9

   Stop 9

   10 min

   A fun and quirky formation that looks like a reclining figure in a bathtub—one of the most photographed stops along the drive.

• Suitable for all physical fitness levels

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.