We pulled into Monument Valley KOA at about 2 this afternoon and the temp was 96 F. As I write this at 7:30 local, it is 102 F. Sasha's walks are confined to a trip the length of the motorhome, underneath where it's shady! When the sun goes down, perhaps we'll venture out.
Leaving Blanding was difficult because we had learned of some additional places to see in the area...Canyonlands National Park being the most important, I suppose. Oh, well, next time perhaps. US Highway 191 drops south toward the Arizona border, and goes through some exciting country. 9% grades, both up and down, added a bit of excitement.
Near Mexican Hat, Utah, we stopped for a break. It was, after all, a long, long days drive!
We were traveling too slowly for most travelers, so we pulled over to let a group of vehicles pass. Coincidently, this is the exact location where Forrest Gump ended his cross country run!
We pulled into Monument Valley KOA and were directed to site 9. This park is relatively new, so it's a bit rough, but the scenery is awesome.
We took a short drive in the area, checking out the visual opportunities. This area is entirely within the boundaries of the Navajo Nation, and most roads lead to private residences. The Navajos have set up tours and scenic drives through the most interesting rock formations, but due to the COVID situation, the Nation is completely on lockdown and no admittance is permitted. However, we found a few paved roads that led to interesting formations.
This is one of the most iconic photos of Monument Valley.
The right-most chunk of rock seems to be slowly breaking away!
Near the now closed Navajo Nation Visitors Center, several monuments are visible. I took these photos turning in a circle. Everywhere you look it's awesome!
We weren't allowed to proceed beyond a monument of a different sort, a tribute to the Navajos that pioneered this area and made it productive.
Leaving the entrance to the Navajo Nation, we caught a glimpse of another fantastic formation.
We're planning a day trip tomorrow, and hope to see more of this fantastical area!
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