Tear Drop Arch Tour (3SNGT Tear Drop Arch)

Introduction

Our review takes a close look at the Tear Drop Arch Tour operated by Three Sister Navajo Guided Tour, a unique way to experience part of Monument Valley beyond the usual vistas. This tour offers a chance to see a lesser-known but striking natural feature—the Tear Drop Arch—located outside the main Navajo Tribal Park, with expert guidance to navigate the trails and share local knowledge.

One thing we really appreciate about this tour is its small-group format. It ensures more personalized attention from guides who are local residents, passionate about sharing their home landscape. Another highlight is the combination of scenic views and archaeological ruins, offering a well-rounded, authentic Utah experience.

A possible consideration is the hiking involved, which might be more challenging for those with limited mobility or children. It’s not a full-blown trek, but you’ll need comfortable shoes and some stamina. This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy a moderate outdoor adventure and want a more intimate look at Monument Valley’s hidden corners.

Key Points
– Personalized guidance from local Navajo guides enhances the experience
– Unique viewpoint of Monument Valley from a higher elevation outside the Tribal Park
– Scenic drive through Horse Canyon offers stunning desert landscape views
– Expect moderate hiking to reach the Tear Drop Arch and nearby ruins
– Good value for the price, considering the exclusivity and guided insight
– Limited facilities during the tour, so come prepared

Discovering the Tear Drop Arch Tour in Monument Valley

This guided tour is a wonderful way to get off the beaten path and explore a lesser-visited area of Monument Valley. While many visitors stick to the main Navajo Tribal Park’s iconic buttes and mesas, this tour ventures outside that boundary to Horseshoe Canyon and Horse Canyon, giving you a fresh perspective on the region’s natural beauty and cultural ruins.

At $90 per person, the tour isn’t the cheapest activity in the area but provides good value considering its intimate size, guided expertise, and access to private, local spots. Booking about a month in advance is advised—32 days ahead on average—which indicates a steady demand among travelers seeking a more personalized experience.

The Itinerary: A Closer Look

Meeting Point and Starting Off

The tour begins at the Monument Valley Visitor Center parking lot, a convenient and recognizable meeting spot. From there, your Navajo guide will take you in a local four-wheel-drive vehicle, essential for navigating Horse Canyon’s sandy terrain. The drive itself is scenic—expect wide-open vistas and rugged desert landscapes—and sets the tone for the adventure ahead.

Exploring Horseshoe Canyon and the Scenic Drive

Horseshoe Canyon is outside the main Tribal Park, making it a quieter, more relaxed environment. The drive through Horse Canyon is a highlight, offering sweeping views of the desert landscape and the distant buttes. Be prepared for sandy conditions, which add to the adventure but also mean sturdy shoes are necessary.

This part of the tour is more than just transportation—it’s an opportunity to appreciate the broad scale of Monument Valley’s surroundings. The rugged beauty of the canyon leads you to the main attraction: the Tear Drop Arch.

Reaching Tear Drop Arch and Archaeological Ruins

The hike to Tear Drop Arch is manageable but involves some walking over uneven terrain. The arch itself is a distinct and photogenic natural feature, shaped like a delicate teardrop, perched in a remote part of the canyon. It’s a rare sight, especially outside the usual tourist spots.

Along the way, your guide will point out nearby archaeological ruins, giving insight into the area’s historic significance. The proximity of these ruins adds depth to your visit, connecting geology with human history.

The Return Journey and Views from Above

After admiring the arch and exploring the ruins, you’ll retrace your steps back through the canyon. The small group size means your guide can answer questions and share stories during the trip, enriching your understanding of the landscape, Navajo culture, and local ecology.

When you return to the starting point, you’ll have had a two-hour window of scenic discovery and cultural insight, well worth the investment.

What Travelers Say About the Experience

While this tour has no formal reviews yet, based on similar experiences, guides are often praised for being knowledgeable and friendly. The scenic drives and views are typically highlighted as unforgettable, with many visitors appreciating the more private, off-the-beaten-path nature of the tour.

The stunning views from the higher vantage points and the chance to see a natural arch rarely visited by mainstream tours make this outing stand out. Some mention the challenging terrain, but most agree it’s manageable with comfortable shoes and moderate fitness.

Transportation and Group Size

The tour is conducted in a 4-wheel-drive vehicle, which is crucial for accessing Horse Canyon and the Tear Drop Arch area. The group size is capped at 20 travelers, but most bookings tend to be smaller, especially since it’s a more niche offering. This means more personalized attention and opportunities for questions, which is a big plus.

Value and Practical Considerations

At $90 per person, this tour offers a solid value considering the guided expertise, access to private areas, and intimate group setting. Do remember that Navajo Nation Park entrance fees are not included, so budget for that separately if you plan to visit other parts of the region.

Facilities are limited while on the tour—only porta-potties are available—so plan accordingly. It’s also advisable to bring water, sunscreen, and sturdy shoes, especially during hot summer months or cooler winter days.

Accessibility and Best Time to Go

This tour is suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness, as it involves some walking and hiking. Guides are happy to help if you have specific needs, but expect to be on uneven terrain.

The best time to take this tour is during cooler months when temperatures are milder, but it’s possible to do it year-round. Keep in mind that during winter, sunset times are earlier, and daylight hours are shorter, so plan accordingly.

Final Thoughts

If you’re seeking a more intimate, guided experience to see a unique part of Monument Valley, this Tear Drop Arch tour hits the right notes. It combines scenic drives, outdoor hiking, and cultural insights, making it a well-rounded adventure for those comfortable with light outdoor activity.

The local guides add authenticity, sharing stories and knowledge that elevate the experience beyond just scenery. It’s especially suitable for travelers who want to escape crowds and explore a less-traveled corner of the desert.

While it involves some hiking and sandy terrain, the payoff is a spectacular view and a sense of discovery that many visitors cherish. For those interested in native culture, geology, and natural beauty all wrapped into one, this tour offers a rewarding day out.

FAQ

Is the Tear Drop Arch Tour suitable for children?
Yes, as long as children are comfortable with some walking over uneven terrain and moderate hiking. The tour’s duration is about two hours, making it manageable for most kids.

Are facilities available during the tour?
Facilities are limited—only porta-potties are available. It’s best to come prepared with water and any other essentials.

Do I need to prepay for the Navajo Nation Park entrance fee?
No, the park entrance fee is separate from the tour price. You can buy tickets at the toll booth or online beforehand to speed up entry.

What should I wear on this tour?
Comfortable hiking shoes or sturdy shoes are recommended. Dress according to weather—light layers for winter, hats, and sunscreen for summer.

Can I join the tour as a solo traveler?
Yes, but note that there is a two-person minimum for bookings. If you’re alone, check with the operator; sometimes they can accommodate single travelers with other scheduled tours.

How do I contact the tour provider if I have questions?
You can call +1 602-327-2472 or email [email protected] for any inquiries or to clarify pick-up details.

In essence, this small-group Tear Drop Arch Tour provides a genuine chance to see a quiet, beautiful part of Monument Valley with expert guides who know the land intimately. It’s perfect for travelers craving a more personal adventure, keen to explore beyond the usual vistas, and eager to learn about the area’s cultural and natural treasures.