The Journey to Hunts Mesa

As a cultural anthropologist, I have always been drawn to the stories that landscapes tell. The land is a canvas painted with the history and culture of its people. My recent journey to Hunts Mesa in Monument Valley was no exception. This hidden jewel of the West, with its labyrinthine red rock canyons and majestic sandstone arches, offered a unique opportunity to capture both the sunset and sunrise from a vantage point that few have experienced.

Our guide, Toney, a Navajo man with over two decades of experience, was not just a guide but a storyteller, weaving tales of the land and its people as we journeyed from the View Hotel to Hunts Mesa. The drive itself was an adventure, transitioning from paved roads to rugged off-road paths. Toney’s expertise in navigating the challenging terrain was evident as he skillfully maneuvered the heavy-duty SUV through rocky inclines and narrow paths with sheer drop-offs.

The journey was punctuated by stops at various points where Toney shared the local names and stories of the rock formations. These stories, passed down through generations, added a layer of depth to the already breathtaking views. As we reached the mesa, the landscape unfolded before us, a tapestry of buttes and mesas bathed in the golden light of the setting sun.

Capturing the Sunset and Night Sky

Upon reaching our destination, Toney guided us to the best spots for photography, allowing us to explore and capture the extraordinary views. As the sun dipped below the horizon, the sky transformed into a canvas of vibrant colors, a sight that words can scarcely describe. We set up our tripods on a flat rock, capturing the last rays of the day as they danced across the landscape.

As darkness enveloped the mesa, Toney returned to guide us to the campsite, where a warm campfire awaited. The dinner he prepared was a feast that exceeded our expectations, featuring steak, Navajo flatbread, and a medley of vegetables cooked over the fire. As we dined, Toney shared stories of his childhood and the spiritual connection his people have with the land. His storytelling was slow and deliberate, each word painting a vivid picture of a life intertwined with nature.

The night sky, free from the light pollution of the city, was a spectacle in itself. With Toney’s guidance and a quick call to his photographer brother, we attempted to capture the stars, a task that was both challenging and rewarding. The experience of photographing the night sky was a reminder of the vastness of the universe and our small place within it.

A Sunrise to Remember

The following morning, Toney’s wake-up call came just before dawn, urging us to capture the sunrise. The early morning light cast a soft glow over the landscape, revealing the intricate details of the rock formations. It was a moment of quiet reflection, a chance to connect with the land and its history.

After a hearty breakfast of eggs, sausage, and fresh fruit, we packed up and began our descent from the mesa. The journey back was a time to reflect on the experience, the stories shared, and the beauty of the land. Toney’s knowledge and passion for the land had transformed the tour into a cultural immersion, a journey that was as much about understanding the people and their connection to the land as it was about capturing stunning photographs.

This adventure to Hunts Mesa was more than just a tour; it was an exploration of culture, history, and the natural world. It was a reminder of the stories that landscapes hold and the importance of preserving these narratives for future generations. For those seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience, Hunts Mesa Tour is a journey not to be missed.