Exploring the Backgrounds of Monument Valley – One of the Most Photographed Places on Earth

Utah

America is renowned for its famous bucket list drives. Many have the infamous Route 66 on their lists, yet the Utah Office of Tourism claims the iconic drive through Monument Valley, one of the most photographed places in the world, should be top of the list. And many Australian tour operators have started to promote these iconic loop trails and back roads to best photograph the famed landscapes of the Valley.

The most famous of the landscapes are the twin buttes known as The Mittens and The Totem Pole, as well as Ear of the Wind Arch, all of which have achieved iconic status as a backdrop to famed Hollywood movies and television shows beginning with several John Wayne films including Stagecoach, plus Robert Zemeckis' film Forrest Gump and Clint Eastwood's Eiger Sanction.

Monument Valley falls within the jurisdiction of the Navajo Nation's 27,425-square-mile (71,000 square kilometres) territory in the Four Corners region of the United States, of that 17 million acres more than 91,000 acres are set aside as Monument Valley Tribal Park — a space larger than Arches National Park.

Commenting on the indigenous connection with the park, The Navajo Parks and Recreation Department, which manages the park, shares this message with visitors, “The Navajo people have a custom that has endured. Whenever visitors come they are always treated as honoured guests. They are offered shelter, warmth and nourishment so they can continue on with their journey. The same hospitality we offer to you, and we hope that you have a safe and pleasant visit to our land.”

The iconic symbols of Monument Valley can be explored by a scenic driving route that leads to overlook of the park's famous formations.

Globus has fully escorted all inclusive tour Enchanting Canyonlands from their newly launched 2016 program that take in Monument Valley from $3809pp including Monument Valley, Bryce and Zion National Parks. For details call Globus on 1300 230 234.

Adventure World is offering small packages from $2230pp aligned with other US destinations for 7 days including six nights hotel accommodation, transportation by private vehicle and a professional tour leader. For details call Adventure World on 1300 295 049.

For further information on travelling to Monument Valley see www.visitutah.com or contact your local travel agent.

Utah

Home to five national parks, The Mighty 5®, 43 state parks, seven national monuments, two national recreation areas and "The Greatest Snow on Earth®," Utah represents the best of both the Rocky Mountains and the Desert Southwest. Whether it's heart-thumping downhill skiing, picturesque fly fishing, gravity-defying rock climbing, serene bird watching, thrill-seeking white water rafting or just communing with nature, Utah has it all - holding true to the state's "Life Elevated®" brand.