From Moab to Monument Valley

Aloha Everyone,

Wilson Arch is located about 24 miles south of Moab along US Route 191. It's the first or the last prominent arch one sees traveling north or south on this road.

This part of Utah is one of the vast uninhabited areas of the United States. It is desolate, barren open corridor.  However the wide open space with miles and miles of nothingness is also inspiring.

From Bluff we took USRoute 163 passing Recapture Dam into Monument Valley located in Navajo Tribal Lands.

We are staying at the Goulding's  Camp Park. Harry and Leone Goulding's were traders looking for a new business opportunity and a place to call home. Over the years, the Goulding's hosted Hollywood movie productions including John Ford films starring John Wayne. Thus Monument Valley became famous as a location for Western films.

Each return trips to Monument Valley, we notice visible changes. There are a lot more houses, for example, many are built in the immediate vicinity of  familiar rocky monuments. Below was taken as we approached the Goulding's property.

Dining Room is perched on the rocky plateau and to access, we climbed about 30 steps.

A view from the top. Honu is in the middle and the "skinny " one.

J.J. ordered hot chili and Navajo Fry Bread which is served with honey.

Here is my order of steak burger with onion rings which I shared with J.J.

J.J. and I stopped by at the Gaulding's Grocery store and purchased a loaf of bread. Monument Valley is located at the border of Utah and Arizona within the Navajo Tribal Lands. I believe that Flagstaff, Arizona would be the closest major city to this location. Everything has to be trucked in. J.J. noted that a gallon of spring water which we purchase for $1 at Walmart is being sold for $1.79.

Many Europeans are staying in this RV park.

Tomorrow, I will share with you the beauty of Monument Valley.

Aloha -- Cathi