VALLEY OF THE GODS
SOUTHEASTERN UTAH'S SCENIC BACKCOUNTRY
Valley of the Gods is a wide-open scenic backcountry area in southeastern Utah, just 42 miles outside of Blanding, Utah. Valley of the Gods is one of our favorite hidden gems. Compared often to the nearby Monument Valley, guests are blown away by the large buttes, isolated pinnacles and large mesa walls that surround the entire valley. Exploring Valley of the Gods doesn't require a guide or permit, as it sits on BLM Land. It is available for biking, hiking, camping, and driving.
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Travelers will not find designated trails or campgrounds, but there is plenty of established backcountry where you can explore and camp.
A 17-mile dirt and gravel road winds through the valley. It provides a fun drive through an area, and best of all you won't be competing for selfies and drone shots because this area is not traveled heavily. It's a great place to get away from civilization, be one with the landscape and get away from crowded tourist attractions.
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Because of its isolated nature, people exploring Valley of the Gods need to be self-sufficient and carry daily need supplies with them. There are no facilities, no gas stations, stores or services. You may or may not see other travelers along the road, so be sure to stock up in Blanding before you head out.
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MOKI DUGWAY & MULEY POINT
Blasted into the Cedar Mesa Cliffside nearly 70 years ago, Moki Dugway is a staggering, graded dirt switchback road that consists of 3 miles of unpaved, but well-graded switchbacks. These switchbacks climb (or descend) 1,200 feet from Cedar Mesa to the valley floor near Valley of the Gods and Goosenecks State Park. This route provides breathtaking views of some of southeastern Utah’s most awe-inspiring scenic views. Travelers will enjoy views of Valley of the Gods and distant Monument Valley at every turn of the dugway. Cars and trucks alike will do just fine on this route.
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Muley Point Overlook is part of Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, Muley Point has an unique perspective on the far corner of the San Juan County. Here you can enjoy unrivaled views of Monument Valley, John's Canyon, Navajo Mountain, and the deeply entrenched canyons of the San Juan River. This is a peaceful location, not often visited, and has many places where it is possible to drive off-road and camp right at the edge of the sheer cliffs. This road is well maintained but can be sandy in the summer months. Crossovers, SUV's, Jeeps and trucks are recommended for this journey.
GETTING THERE
FROM BLANDING
Scenic Route:
Travelers will head 3 miles south from Blanding and turn west (right) onto Highway 95, and follow that road for 28 miles. Upon reaching Highway 261, turn south (left) and follow Highway 261 for 23 miles, at which point you can either head west (right) and visit Muley Point (5 miles) or you can descend down Moki Dugway and continue on to Valley of the Gods just 2 miles down the road.
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Highway 95 will take travelers alongside and into the heart of Bears Ears National Monument, passed Butler Wash Ruins, Mule Canyon Ruins, and Comb Ridge. All of which can be enjoyed during or after your journey our to Valley of the Gods. Highway 261 journeys along Grand Gulch Primitive Area and Cedar Mesa, home to thousands of archaeological and cultural sites that are well over 13,000 years old.
IN PARTNERSHIP WITH
