Monument Valley To Close During October 2023 Solar Eclipse

by Rod
(Salt Lake City)

Monument Valley Pinnacle

As excitement brews for the 2023 solar eclipse, Utah is gearing up as a prime location for viewing the mesmerizing ring of fire. However, if you've set your sights on experiencing this celestial phenomenon at Utah’s iconic Monument Valley, there's a change in plans you should be aware of.

Monument Valley will not be accessible during the solar eclipse. The Navajo Nation recently announced that due to their cultural protocols, Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park will be closed for five hours … from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. … on the day of the eclipse. The eclipse will occur on October 14th, 2023.

The decision stems from a deep respect for traditional Navajo beliefs held by many of the park's staff. While the natural spectacle draws attention from around the world, some traditions hold such events in a sacred light.

For those who've pre-booked tours within Monument Valley for that day, fret not. Tours will proceed as scheduled. However, be advised that no new bookings will be entertained during the closure period and access to the park will be strictly prohibited.

Travelers are encouraged to explore the many other viewing locations listed below to experience a magical eclipse experience while respecting local traditions.

Full Eclipse Zone:
• Anasazi State Park
• Edge of the Cedars State Park Museum
• Escalante Petrified Forest State Park
• Fremont Indian State Park & Museum
• Goblin Valley State Park
• Goosenecks State Park
• Kodachrome State Park
• Millsite State Park
• Otter Creek State Park
• Palisade State Park
• Piute State Park
• Territorial Statehouse State Park Museum
• Yuba State Park

Just Outside The Full Eclipse Zone:
• Dead Horse Point State Park
• Frontier Homestead State Park Museum
• Green River State Park
• Huntington State Park
• Utahraptor State Park

The full eclipse will be visible in several cities including:
• Ephraim
• Manti
• Fillmore
• Richfield
• Aurora
• Torrey
• Beaver
• Boulder
• Monticello
• Blanding
• Mexican Hat
• Hatch
• Panguitch