“The desert wears… a veil of mystery. Motionless and silent, it evokes in us an elusive hint of something unknown.”
— Edward Abbey
$14.99
Valley of the Gods Driving Tour
There’s a place in southern Utah…
where the crowds disappear…
the road turns to dirt…
and the desert starts to feel alive.
This is Valley of the Gods.
Seventeen miles of towering red rock formations, silent desert, and open sky — often called “Mini Monument Valley,” but without the crowds, the gates, or the fees.
On this Valley of the Gods driving tour, you’ll follow a scenic loop through ancient sandstone towers shaped by time… and named by imagination.
Because out here…every rock tells a story.
What You’ll Experience
Start at the Valley of the Gods east entrance off Highway 163
Drive a 17-mile scenic dirt loop through iconic formations
Discover the story behind the Seven Sailors and Castle Butte
Hear how uranium miners once raced through this valley
Learn about Native history, geology, and desert survival
Tour Highlights / What You'll See
🪨 Seven Sailors
Seven towering rock formations named by a prospector who saw mythology in stone
🏰 Castle Butte
A massive sandstone fortress rising from the desert floor.
🚢 Battleship Rock
A formation that looks like a warship frozen mid-voyage.
🛁 Lady in the Bathtub
One of the most photographed and most imaginative formations in the valley.
🐏 Desert Bighorn Sheep
If you’re lucky, you might spot them blending into the cliffs.
Price:
$14.99
Tour Route Map
Frequently Asked Questions:
Where does the tour start?
At the Valley of the Gods east entrance pull-off on Highway 163, about 15 miles west of Bluff
How long does it take?
Driving only: ~45 minutes
With stops: 1.5–3 hours recommended
Is the road paved?
No — it’s a dirt road (usually passable for most vehicles in dry conditions).
Is there an entrance fee?
No. It’s completely free (BLM land).
Where can I stay?
Right on the route at the Valley of the Gods Bed and Breakfast (B&B) — a remote desert stay surrounded by towering rock formations