Monument Valley to Petrified Forest Road Trip
Explore some of the most remote and beautiful parts of Arizona with a Monument Valley to Petrified Forest road trip!
We’ve visited this part of Arizona several times, and I am always amazed at the otherworldly landscapes, seemingly endless horizons, and natural beauty.
On this road trip itinerary, you’ll get everything you need to know in order to make this the best trip ever for your family.
I’m sharing what to see—and how to maximize your time at each stop—as well as what to eat, where to stay, and where to camp.
As with all of our travel suggestions, this itinerary is super kid-friendly, so bring the entire family!
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What is the best Monument Valley to Petrified Forest route?
Option 1: Highway 163, Highway 160, Highway 191, I-40 West
Mileage: 194 miles
Pros of this route:
At 3 hours and 20 minutes, you could easily do this entire road trip in 2-4 days, making it ideal for those with shorter travel windows.
You’ll leave Monument Valley and go through the eastern section of the Navajo Nation reservation.
This route also allows you to visit Canyon de Chelly National Monument, where you’ll be able to explore the vast red rock cliffs and view ancient pueblo dwellings.
Cons of this route:
You won’t get to visit the Grand Canyon, Flagstaff, or Meteor Crater, which we feel is a mistake!
This route might be shorter, but you’re sacrificing some of the best of Arizona sightseeing for that haste.
PIN ME!
Option 2: Highway 163, Highway 160, Highway 89, I-40 East
Mileage: 384 miles
Pros of this route:
You’ll be able to see the incredible Grand Canyon National Park, Flagstaff, and 2 towns on Route 66 on this road trip path.
Also on the itinerary is a stop by Walnut Canyon National Monument and the awe-inspiring Meteor Crater.
Overall, this route has much more to do than Option 1, and it provides a full road trip experience.
This is why we’ve selected this route to detail in the itinerary below.
Cons of this route:
This route does take longer, and truly needs 5-7 days to fully appreciate.
You’re also missing out on Canyon de Chelly National Monument, which is wonderful, but we’re replacing that with the Grand Canyon (which really does live up to its name!).
What to Know Before Your Arizona Road Trip
A storm rolls in over Monument Valley
Parts of Arizona are very remote.
Be prepared with plenty of fuel and water.
When you get off of I-40 onto the smaller state highways, you can often go 50 miles or more before finding a gas station.
Even on I-40 between Flagstaff and the AZ-NM border, the exits can be far and few between.
Don’t let your car, camper, or truck run low on fuel: be proactive and stop before your tank hits empty.
Additionally, you should be prepared if you do have a car problem. Keep plenty of water and non-perishable snacks on hand.
Arizona temperatures can climb into the 90s (and higher) in the peak summer months, which can quickly dehydrate you if you’re stranded on the side of the road.
This road trip passes through or very near several reservations.
Be respectful as you you drive through.
You’ll likely notice how remote these areas are (see my notes above), but you will find a gas station, food market, or store from time to time.
Shop local to support those on the Navajo and Hopi reservations! You’re likely to see an abundance of turquoise and silver jewelry, locally made rugs, and pottery.
Another local treat is the Navajo taco, which is delicious.
A large piece of fry bread is used as the base. Fry bread is similar in texture and taste to a fairground elephant ear, only savory instead of sweet.
The fry bread is then loaded up with seasoned ground beef, chopped tomatoes, lettuce, cheese, and sour cream.
The closest airport to Monument Valley is the Goulding’s-Monument Valley-Oljato Airport.
It is a very small regional airport and generally serves aircraft along the lines of Cessnas and other private planes.
You’ll have a better chance of finding a flight at Canyonlands Field Airport, near Moab.
If you choose this route, you can add on a few days at the start of your trip by exploring Moab, Utah, another of our favorite places in the West!
Or, you can do the complete Utah and Arizona road trip itinerary, which combines many of the suggestions here with Utah’s 5 national parks.
Monument Valley to Petrified Forest National Park Road Trip Itinerary
Our daughter in a field of petrified wood at Petrified Forest National Park
This road trip can be done in as little as 5 days, but I’d encourage you to take 7-10 days to complete it.
Doing so allows you to savor each place and provide some time from driving.
In the detailed itinerary below, I’ve included ways to extend each stop if you do have some extra time in your vacation.
You’ll also find suggestions on where to stay—both hotels and campgrounds—and a day by day break down of where to sightsee.
Stop 1: Monument Valley
The older Camping Kiddo at the incredible Monument Valley
Monument Valley is way out of the way from just about anywhere, but I promise that the effort of getting here is worth it.
You’ve probably seen the iconic spires of Monument Valley in John Wayne movies from the ‘60s, or from the running scene in Forrest Gump.
However, nothing compares to driving around this incredible place yourself.
Located on the tribal lands of the Navajo Nation, Monument Valley is run by and cared for by members of the Navajo tribe.
Here, you can shop for authentic Native American gifts, do the 17-mile loop drive through the park, hike at the base of the buttes, and more.
Here are all of the things you can do at Monument Valley with your kids!
If you have extra time to spend at Monument Valley:
Visit nearby Mexican Hat to see the unique rock formation that the town is named after.
Explore Goosenecks State Park for spectacular desert views without the crowds.
Where to Stay:
The View Hotel is the only hotel inside of the tribal park, and the only hotel with a direct view of the Mitten Butte.
We liked the yurts in Mexican Hat, just a few miles north of Monument Valley. These are run by the San Juan Inn and Trading Post. [Grab our free yurt camping guide here!]
If you’re camping in an RV, your best bet is the Monument Valley KOA, thanks to its amenities and convenient location.
Stop 2: Grand Canyon National Park South Rim
The Camping Kiddos family at the Grand Canyon
Miles driven today: 180 miles (approximately 3 hours 20 minutes)
Arizona is named the Grand Canyon State, so you can’t get this close to this national park without stopping by!
Before you get to the turnoff to the Grand Canyon, stop for a bit in Tuba City to explore dinosaur tracks.
As you make your way south from Monument Valley on our suggested route, you’ll pass right by the east entrance to Grand Canyon National Park near Cameron, AZ.
This entrance will take you to the South Rim, which is the most visited portion of the Grand Canyon.
It also has the most amenities and sightseeing opportunities.
If you only have one day at the Grand Canyon, there’s still plenty that you can see and do.
Take a ranger tour, do a quick hike around a section of the edge, or rent a bike to explore the Grand Canyon Village.
Learn more about visiting the Grand Canyon with kids here.
If you have extra time to spend at the Grand Canyon:
Take a mule ride onto the canyon floor.
Complete a Junior Ranger badge.
Ride on the historic train from Williams, AZ, to the Grand Canyon.
Explore Route 66 memorabilia in Williams, AZ (45 minutes south of the Grand Canyon).
Where to Stay:
We’ve stayed at the Bright Angel Lodge, and felt that it was more than adequate for our family. It’s a historic lodge that pre-dates the national park’s existence! Plus, it is steps away from the canyon edge, which makes for magnificent sunrises.
If you’re RV camping, head to the Trailer RV Park inside of the national park. This is the only in-park campground with full hook-ups.
Grand Canyon National Park tent camping is available in 3 locations on the South Rim, but I recommend Mather Point, which is open year-round.
Stop 3: Flagstaff
Hiking near Sunset Crater National Monument outside of Flagstaff
Miles driven today: 80 miles (approximately 1 hour 30 minutes)
Flagstaff has so much to do that you could spend your entire vacation here!
You’ll have to make some tough decisions on how to divide your time.
We recommend visiting Lowell Observatory, where your family can learn about Pluto, see a solar flare through one of the large telescopes, or take a tour of the facilities.
It’s a must-do for kids who love science and space!
If you’re planning to visit Meteor Crater (later on the itinerary), a visit to Lowell Observatory is a great warm up.
The Pioneer Museum is a fun way to introduce the difficult, but fascinating experiences that settlers had.
There’s a vintage train, one-room cabin, and multiple exhibits inside the old hospital building.
Hiking at Sunset Crater National Monument is another great outing for your family.
This area is just north of Flagstaff, and it would be a good add-on to Wupatki National Monument (see notes below).
Where to Stay in Flagstaff:
The Little America Hotel is beautifully appointed with an upscale mountain lodge feel. There’s also a pool to relax in as you take in the 500 acres of pine forest on the property.
For RV campers, the Flagstaff KOA is centrally located in the northeastern section of the city. While there isn’t a pool or splash pad, kids will love the train rides, on-site activities, and playground.
If you have more time in Flagstaff:
Add in a day trip to Wupatki National Monument to the north, where you can go hiking and see ancient dwellings.
Go hiking at the Lava River Cave, where you can follow a mile-long trail into the earth.
Stop 4: Walnut Canyon National Monument
Miles driven today: 10 miles (approximately 20 minutes)
This part of Arizona has many places where you can visit ancient dwellings and structures, but Walnut Canyon National Monument is one of the few where you can see these types of dwellings built into a cliff face.
See more than 2 dozen of the pueblos on the easy, paved 1 mile Island Trail, then head over to visitors center to see when the next ranger-led tour will be.
If you’re traveling with kids, don’t forget to sign up for the free Junior Ranger program, where kids can fill out an educational booklet about the park to earn a badge.
Stop 5: Meteor Crater
The older Camping Kiddo at Meteor Crater’s highest observation point
Miles driven today: 35 miles (approximately 40 minutes)
It’s not just another hole in the ground!
This massive meteor strike site is mind-bogglingly large, and you can only appreciate the scale when you’re standing on the edge.
Your admission covers a guided 45 minute tour of the crater’s edge—the only way you can actually walk on the crater itself.
You’ll also get access to the museum, 4D ride, observation decks, and educational video.
Pack a lunch and make a day of it. There are several picnic tables in the central courtyard.
Where to Stay:
There is an RV park at the I-40 exit to Meteor Crater, creatively called the Meteor Crater RV Park. While this area is remote, the RV park is a great place for an overnight stay, as it is the only spot within 25 miles to camp.
If you’d like to stay in a hotel, you’ll need to head into Winslow, which is about 30 miles to the east on I-40. We recommend the historic La Posada Hotel and Gardens in downtown Winslow.
Stop 6: Winslow
The Camping Kiddos in Winslow, Arizona, on Route 66
Miles driven today: 26 miles (approximately 30 minutes)
Visiting Winslow, Arizona, is a bit like taking a time machine to the heyday of Route 66.
Much of the Mother Road has been taken over by nearby I-40, but there are still a few towns in this area where you can visit yesteryear.
Winslow is one of those places, and it is so cute!
You probably know the town from its reference in the second stanza of The Eagle’s “Take It Easy.”
The town has taken its place in rock history seriously, and there is a small Sittin’ on the Corner Park to memorialize the song.
Beyond that, there’s plenty to do here to fill up a full day.
However, if you’re pressed for time, you could do both Winslow and Holbrook in the same day.
Explore all that there is to do in historic Winslow AZ on Route 66 in our complete guide.
If you have extra time to spend in Winslow:
Go hiking at Homolovi Ruins State Park.
Support local artisans at the weekly Saturday farmers market.
Where to Stay:
We recommend the historic La Posada Hotel and Gardens in downtown Winslow. It’s a block from the large Route 66 mural and Standin’ on the Corner Park.
If you have an RV, we recommend camping at the Homolovi Ruins State Park, about 10 minutes from downtown Winslow.
Stop 7: Holbrook
The Wigwam Motel in the heart of Holbrook, AZ
Miles driven today: 33 miles (approximately 40 minutes)
Holbrook, AZ, is another town on Route 66, though it is mostly known for its proximity to Petrified Forest National Park.
While in town, you can take in the kitschy remains of Route 66, including the fun dinosaurs in front of the Rainbow Rock shop, the original Dairy Queen sign on Navajo Boulevard, and several original diners.
Jim Grey’s Petrified Wood Shop is another must-visit, as it has an entire warehouse full of petrified wood, minerals, rugs, pottery, and more.
You’re not allowed to take the petrified wood from inside of the national park, so this shop is a great way to get an authentic souvenir.
Where to Stay:
RV and tent campers should head to the Holbrook KOA, which we thought was the best camping near Petrified Forest National Park.
Visitors who need a hotel can embrace the Route 66-feel of the town by staying at the authentic Wigwam Motel, which has been here for more than 60 years.
Stop 8: Petrified Forest National Park
The Camping Kiddos and the author at Petrified Forest National Park
Miles driven today: 25 miles (approximately 30 minutes)
Holbrook is a great home base if you’d like to stay in the area for more than one night.
The town is about half an hour from the Painted Desert Visitors Center at Petrified Forest National Park off of I-40, and less than 20 minutes to the Rainbow Forest Visitors Center at the south of the park.
I’d suggest starting in the north section of the park at the Painted Desert Visitors Center, and then working through the park heading south.
Doing so allows you to get maps, souvenirs, and snacks from the larger Painted Desert Visitors Center.
This area also has an introductory film for the park.
From there, you can make your way through the park’s one road, stopping as needed to explore overlooks and complete the best hikes in Petrified Forest.
The entire national park is RV and trailer friendly with paved roads throughout, and long, pull-through parking spots in most of the parking areas.
>> Explore the full itinerary for 1 day in Petrified Forest National Park. <<
Where to Stay:
There aren’t any overnight facilities in the park, so you’ll need to head back to Holbrook for the closest campgrounds and accommodations. (See notes under Holbrook entry, above, for specific recommendations.)
Monument Valley to Petrified Forest FAQs
When is the best time of the year to do the Monument Valley to Petrified Forest road trip?
Arizona is at its best in the spring (March-April) and fall (October-November).
During these times, the weather will be moderate, and typically in the 70s during the day time.
The mild, dry climate during these times means that you can maximize your outdoor activities!
How can I expand this trip?
If you’d like to see even more of the West, and would like to expand this itinerary, we have a few ideas for you!
You can add on time in Colorado by doing stops from our Denver to Grand Canyon road trip.
That extension would allow you to explore several great towns in Colorado, including Golden, Georgetown, and Grand Junction, as well as the incredible Moab, Utah.
If you’d prefer to explore New Mexico after your Monument Valley to Petrified Forest travels, you can add on the Santa Fe to White Sands road trip itinerary.
This road trip takes you through the heart of New Mexico to explore several thousand years of history. Plus, White Sands National Park is something you have to see to believe.
Do I need a rental car for this road trip?
Yes, you will need a rental car to get from Monument Valley to Petrified Forest.
Much of this route is remote and has no public transportation, so a car is your only option.
