One Day Guide to Valley of The Gods, Moki Dugway, and Muley Point
Are you ready to embark on a wild and scenic adventure through the rugged and awe-inspiring landscapes of southern Utah? We’re taking you on a journey to explore the stunning Valley of the Gods, Moki Dugway, and Muley Point, all in one day!
If you are headed towards Bluff, Mexican Hat, or perhaps you are on your way to check out Monument Valley, be sure to add this quick day trip to your itinerary.
You’ll get to explore Valley of the Gods, a mesmerizing wonderland of sandstone formations, red rock cliffs, and rugged desert landscapes that will leave you awestruck. Then take a winding drive up Moki Dugway, one of the most thrilling and captivating routes to travel in the USA Southwest. Then head up to Muley Point, an exceptional overlook that offers unparalleled panoramic views of an immense valley stretching all the way to the border with Arizona.
So, are you ready to plan your own unforgettable adventure? Keep reading for our day trip itinerary that covers everything you need to know about these amazing spots.
Although we embarked on this adventure on dirt bikes, fear not, as a regular 4×4 vehicle will suffice to explore these amazing destinations.
The best way to use this guide is by starting your journey in Bluff, Utah before embarking on your adventure through Valley of the Gods, Moki Dugway, and Muley Point. Below we have mapped out the directions.
Valley of the Gods
We started our journey by cruising through the Valley of the Gods road, which is a 17-mile dirt road that winds through a landscape of towering sandstone formations, with plenty of opportunities to stop and take in the view.
While Valley of the Gods and Monument Valley may seem similar at first glance, there are some key differences. Monument Valley is a Navajo Tribal Park with more developed infrastructure, including guided tours and a visitor center.
Valley of the Gods, on the other hand, is a more rugged and remote area with few amenities. However, both places offer stunning views of towering red rock formations and sprawling canyons.
How to get to Valley of the Gods from Bluff
Valley of the Gods is located on BLM land between Mexican Hat and Bluff, Utah. Starting from Bluff, off of UT-163, you’ll enter the Valley of the Gods and travel along the 17-mile scenic route through towering rock formations and stunning vistas.
Keep in mind that this road is best suited for high-clearance vehicles and can be impassable during wet weather.
There aren’t any designated hiking trails in the Valley of the Gods, but visitors can explore the area on foot and discover its unique features. Some of the notable landmarks in the Valley of the Gods include iconic rock formations such as Buddha in the Bathtub Butte, Setting Hen Butte, Battleship Rock, and Castle Butte.
Moki Dugway
Next up was the Moki Dugway, which was a whole different experience on our dirtbikes. We navigated the steep 3-mile dirt road that was built in the 1950s with ease, feeling the wind rush past us as we climbed higher and higher.
This road climbs 1,200 feet up the face of Cedar Mesa, with hairpin turns and stunning views at every turn. The panoramic view from the top was absolutely breathtaking.
How to Get to Moki Dugway from Valley of the Gods
Once you’ve completed the scenic drive through the Valley of the Gods, exit onto UT-261, heading North, and continue driving for about a mile until you reach the start of the Moki Dugway, and you’ll only have to travel about a mile of paved road before it turns to dirt. Make sure your vehicle is up for the challenge, as the road is steep and unpaved. But trust us, the views are worth it!
History of Moki Dugway
Now, let’s talk history. Moki Dugway was constructed in the 1950s as part of a uranium mining operation in the area. The road was originally built to transport uranium ore from the top of Cedar Mesa to the valley below.
The name “Moki” has a rich history, dating back to the Spanish settlers of the 1700s who used it to describe the native Anasazi. Over time, it became synonymous with the winding road that carves its way through Cedar Mesa, and the name “Moki Dugway” was born.
The road gets its name from the type of path it is, as a dugway refers to a road carved out of the ridge of a hill. With a gradient of over 10%, this road is not for the faint of heart, but the rewards are well worth it.
What to Expect Driving Moki Dugway
Let’s talk about what to expect when driving the Dugway. Brace yourself for a steep, winding, and unpaved road that climbs over 1,000 feet in just three miles. As you ascend, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding canyons and rock formations. It’s definitely not for the faint of heart, but if you’re up for a thrilling adventure, this is the spot for you.
Under perfect weather conditions (especially in summer), you can drive the Moki Dugway in any car (a 4×4 is not required), but because of the gradient, it’s highly inadvisable to drive an RV. Trust us, you don’t want to end up stuck halfway up the hill.
You also need to be careful during the winter, as there can be road closures due to snow, and even if it’s open, it’s still risky to drive on this steep dirt road when it’s icy. And when it rains, it’s a big no-no. Mud makes the route dangerous, and if you don’t have a 4×4, it’ll be completely impassable. So, in short, this road always requires some caution when driving.
View from Moki Dugway
On clear days, you’ll be able to see wonders that are quite far away. You have a perfect view of the Valley of the Gods below, but it’s also possible to see the edge of Monument Valley.
Muley Point
Finally, we made our way to Muley Point, which was at the end of a 10-mile dirt road. We parked our bikes and took a few minutes to take in the view from Muley Point, which was truly breathtaking.
With a panoramic view of the San Juan River, the same river with the picturesque bends known as Goosenecks. From the edge of the ravine, at the top of Cedar Mesa, the horizon extends over the valley all the way to the edge of Monument Valley.
How to Get to Muley Point from Moki Dugway
Muley Point is located just a short drive from Moki Dugway on UT-261. After you’ve completed the Moki Dugway, take a left turn onto Muley Point Road, which is the first dirt road before the pavement starts on UT-261.
From the top of Cedar Mesa, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the San Juan River, Monument Valley, and the surrounding rock formations that make this area so unique. You might want to pack a lunch or some snacks, because you won’t want to leave this spot anytime soon.
Once you’ve taken in the stunning views from Muley Point, you can head back down to Valley of the Gods if you’re camping there, or explore other nearby attractions if you have more time.
One popular option is Monument Valley, located about 45 minutes south of Valley of the Gods. This iconic red rock landscape has been featured in countless movies and is truly a sight to behold.
Other nearby attractions include Goosenecks State Park, Sipapu Bridge, House on Fire, and Natural Bridges National Monument.
Best time to Visit Valley of The Gods, Moki Dugway and Muley Point
The best times to visit Valley of The Gods, Moki Dugway and Muley Point are during the spring and fall months, when temperatures are milder and the crowds are thinner.
Summer temperatures can reach well over 100 degrees Fahrenheit, making it less enjoyable to spend time outside.
Winter can bring snow and ice, which can make the unpaved road difficult to navigate.
Where to Stay
There are plenty of options for RV camping along the Valley of the Gods road. The road itself offers many free dispersed camping spots, where you can park your RV and set up camp for the night. Another great option is the Goosenecks State Park campground, which is just a short drive away from the Valley of the Gods.
Muley Point also offers some fantastic camping spots for those looking for a more rugged experience. There are a few primitive campsites in the area that are perfect for tent camping or overlanding. You can set up camp on the rim of the cliff and wake up to stunning views of the valley below.
For those who prefer a little more luxury, Bluff has some excellent options:
- Desert Rose Resort & Cabins: This accommodation features modern, comfortable rooms with southwestern-style decor, as well as a heated outdoor pool, hot tub, and fitness center.
- Cliff Dwelling Resort: is a luxurious option for travelers looking for an upscale stay in the area. This resort is located in Bluff, which is a convenient location for exploring both Valley of the Gods and the Moki Dugway.
One day Guide to Valley of the Gods, Moki Dugway and Muley Point
Valley of the Gods, Moki Dugway, and Muley Point are three stunning destinations in the American Southwest that offer visitors a unique and unforgettable experience. We hope this guide has helped you plan your trip!
