Food Options in Monument Valley

Greetings... we're staying at The View for the first time in late August :) We're planning a back country tour in the morning, and then heading north into Utah.

Question... are there *any* other food options other than the restaurants at The View (or Goulding's)? Something like a food truck or stall or anything in the vicinity?

We really don't want to take time for a sit down meal, and a cooler in the car in the heat might not be the best option.

And a bonus question - any specific recommendations for a 2-3 hour back country tour? Or just read the reviews and hope for the best?

Thanks!

Monument Valley is quite remote, and food options are limited. The main choices for dining near The View are the hotel’s restaurant and Goulding’s Lodge, which both serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Outside of these, there are very few alternatives—there are no regular food trucks or street vendors operating in the immediate area, and stores are sparse.

If you want to avoid a full sit-down meal, your best options are:

  • Grab-and-go items from The View’s restaurant or Goulding’s—both can often provide sandwiches, wraps, or breakfast items to take with you on a tour.
  • Bring packaged snacks such as granola bars, nuts, or dried fruit. Even though a cooler may be tricky in August heat, non-perishable items are a safer alternative.
  • Check if The View or Goulding’s can prepare a small to-go lunch or snack box when you check in, as some guests have arranged this in the past.

Regarding backcountry tours:

  • The tours offered by The View and local Navajo guides vary, but a 2–3 hour guided backcountry tour can cover some of the less-visited monuments, mesas, and iconic viewpoints off the main scenic loop.
  • Recommended tour operators include The View Tours and guides affiliated with the Navajo Tribal Park. Reading recent reviews is helpful, but generally, guides provide not just the scenic stops but also insights into Navajo history and culture, which enriches the experience.
  • If you want a slightly more personalized experience, mention your interests when booking—photography, cultural insights, or specific landmarks—and guides can adjust the route accordingly.

In short, for quick food you’re largely dependent on The View or Goulding’s, and planning ahead for snacks is wise. For backcountry tours, sticking with experienced Navajo guides is the safest and most rewarding way to see the hidden corners of Monument Valley.


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