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May 17, 2024
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Wildcat Trail
4
hikers
7.38km
02:01
120m
120m
The Wildcat Trail loop offers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in the iconic red sand plains of Monument Valley, circling the base of the magnificent West Mitten Butte. This moderate 4.6-mile (7.4 km) hiking route, with 385 feet (117 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 2 hours and 1 minutes, providing continuous, up-close views of East Mitten Butte and Merrick Butte. You'll experience the unique atmosphere of the valley floor, surrounded by towering sandstone monoliths and desert flora.
Planning your visit requires a few considerations for this unique trail. As the only self-guided trail that descends into the valley, you'll encounter stretches of deep sand, which can be tiring. The entire route is exposed to the sun, so carry ample water and wear sun protection, especially if hiking during warmer parts of the day. Early morning or late afternoon are ideal times to experience the landscape's changing colors and avoid peak heat.
What truly sets the Wildcat Trail apart is its ability to offer a rare sense of solitude and scale within Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park. Unlike vehicle tours, this hike allows you to connect with the land at a slower pace, experiencing the silence and grandeur that have made these formations famous backdrops for countless films. You might even spot local equines or signs of Navajo homesteads along the way, adding to the authentic backcountry feel.
5.0
(4)
9
hikers
The View on West Mitten Butte – View on East Mitten Butte loop offers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in the dramatic scenery of Monument Valley. This moderate 6.3-mile (10.1 km) hike, with 516 feet (157 metres) of elevation gain, takes you right to the base of West Mitten Butte, providing a perspective far more intimate than the scenic drive. You'll traverse sandy paths through desert flora, with the towering sandstone formations of East Mitten Butte and Merrick Butte dominating the horizon, making for a truly iconic desert experience that typically takes around 2 hours and 45 minutes.
This is the only trail in Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park that you can explore independently, without a guide, making it a popular choice for those seeking solitude. Parking is available at the park entrance. Given the desert environment, always bring plenty of water, especially during summer, as shade is minimal. Dogs are permitted on the trail but must be leashed.
Known to the Navajo people as Tsé Biiʼ Ndzisgaii, or "Valley of the Rocks," Monument Valley holds deep cultural significance. The buttes, rising dramatically from the desert floor, are instantly recognizable from countless Western films and offer incredible photographic opportunities. This loop allows you to experience the majesty of these formations up close, providing a unique connection to this sacred and timeless landscape.
4.0
(1)
13
hikers
The View on East Mitten Butte – View on West Mitten Butte loop from Oljato-Monument Valley is a difficult 13.0-mile (21.0 km) hike that immerses you in the dramatic red sandstone landscape of Monument Valley. You'll navigate soft red sand and desert flora, with the iconic East and West Mitten Buttes dominating the horizon. This route offers a more extensive and intimate exploration of the region than shorter trails, providing a sense of solitude as you traverse the desert floor, surrounded by towering geological features.
Planning for this 5-hour and 40-minute adventure requires careful consideration. The trail involves 906 feet (276 metres) of elevation gain and is fully exposed to the desert sun, so bring plenty of water and sun protection. Sturdy footwear is crucial for the sandy and sometimes challenging terrain. Always check for specific permit requirements and consider hiking during cooler parts of the day or year to avoid extreme heat.
What makes this loop truly special is its journey through a landscape steeped in cultural significance for the Navajo people, offering a unique perspective on these sacred lands. While the Wildcat Trail is a popular shorter option, this longer route provides a deeper connection to the natural beauty and historical context of Monument Valley, allowing you to experience its renowned buttes and mesas up close, away from the more frequented viewpoints.
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Elevation 1,570 m
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Sunday 14 June
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16 %
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Max wind speed: 31.0 km/h
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