Monticello Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, eat, stay, hike, and more in Monticello, UT. Plan your trip to this beautiful destination today!


Introduction to Monticello

Nestled in the heart of Canyon Country in Southwest Utah, lies the beautiful town of Monticello. Known for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and outdoor adventures, Monticello is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

List of Places to Visit in Monticello

Here’s a quick rundown of the top places to visit in Monticello:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Frontier Museum: Learn about Monticello’s history and western heritage at the Frontier Museum.
  • Manti-La Sal National Forest: Explore the beautiful landscapes and diverse wildlife of Manti-La Sal National Forest.

Natural Attractions of Monticello: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Canyonlands National Park: Discover the magnificent canyons and mesas of southeastern Utah at Canyonlands National Park.
  • Newspaper Rock State Historic Monument: Marvel at the prehistoric rock art at Newspaper Rock State Historic Monument.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Monticello

Monticello boasts several breathtaking hiking and biking trails, including:

  • Dark Canyon Trail: This 11-mile trail offers stunning views of the Dark Canyon Wilderness and the Colorado Plateau.
  • Abajo Peak Trail: Hike to the summit of Abajo Peak, the highest point in the Abajo Mountain range.

Best Things to Do in Monticello: Activities and Tours

  • Four Corners Adventure: Take an off-road adventure and explore the scenic beauty of the Four Corners region.
  • Horseback Riding: Explore the Utah landscape on horseback with a guided tour.
  • Balloon Rides: Take in the beautiful landscape of Monticello from high above on a hot air balloon ride.

Week-Long Itinerary for Monticello

Make the most of your time in Monticello with this week-long itinerary:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit Frontier Museum and Canyonlands National Park
Day 2 Hike the Dark Canyon Trail
Day 3 Explore Newspaper Rock State Historic Monument
Day 4 Epic off-road adventure with Four Corners Adventure
Day 5 Horseback riding tour
Day 6 Hot air balloon ride
Day 7 Biking in Abajo Mountains

Food and Drink Scene of Monticello

When it comes to food, Monticello offers a variety of options, including local specialties and international cuisine.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Navajo Fry Bread: A local favorite, Navajo Fry Bread is a delicious flatbread that can be topped with sweet or savory ingredients.
  • Trout: Freshly caught trout is a popular dish in Monticello due to its proximity to several reservoirs and streams.

Local Beverages

  • Microbreweries: Monticello has several local microbreweries that serve handcrafted beers.
  • Wines: Utah has a growing wine industry and Monticello offers wine tastings at some of the local vineyards.

Where to Stay in Monticello: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Monticello offers a wide range of accommodations, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Here are some popular options:

  • Canyonlands Motor Inn: Offering comfortable rooms and a convenient location in the heart of Monticello.
  • Abajo Haven Guest Cabins: Enjoy a rustic retreat with cozy log cabins and stunning views of Abajo Mountains.
  • The Grist Mill Inn: Stay in a historic building from the 1800s, with charming rooms and homemade breakfast.

What to Buy in Monticello: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Take a piece of Monticello home with you by shopping for souvenirs and local products. Here are some popular options:

  • Native American Jewelry: Monticello is surrounded by Navajo and Hopi reservations, where you can find unique handcrafted jewelry.
  • Utah Truffles: A delicious local treat made from dark chocolate, cream, and butter.

Local Culture and Customs of Monticello

Monticello has a rich cultural heritage, shaped by the ancient Native Americans, cowboys, and pioneers who inhabited the area. Respect for the environment, traditional values, and family are important in the local culture.

Best Time to Visit Monticello

The best time to visit Monticello is during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) when the temperatures are mild, and the crowds are thinner.

Do’s and Don’ts of Monticello

Here are some helpful tips to keep in mind during your visit to Monticello:

Do:

  • Respect Native American culture and traditions.
  • Bring sunscreen, water, and appropriate clothing for outdoor activities.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage natural resources.
  • Enter private property without permission.

Safety and Health

Here’s some important information about safety and health in Monticello:

Safety in Monticello

  • Beware of wildlife, including snakes and bears.
  • Always follow proper safety procedures when engaging in outdoor activities.

Health in Monticello

  • Make sure to stay hydrated in Monticello’s dry climate.
  • Bring all necessary medications and medical supplies with you on your trip.

Getting to Monticello: Transportation Options and Logistics

Monticello is easily accessible by plane, car, and bus.

Airports Near Monticello

  • Canyonlands Field Airport: Located 48 miles from Monticello, Canyonlands Field Airport offers daily flights.

Bus Stations Near Monticello

  • Greyhound: Greyhound offers bus service to nearby cities, including Moab and Grand Junction.

Other Options

  • Car rental: Several car rental companies operate in Monticello, making it easy to explore the area on your own.

How to Get Around in Monticello

The best way to get around Monticello is by car, as public transportation is limited.

Where to Go Next from Monticello: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to explore more of Utah and the Four Corners region, here are some nearby destinations and excursions:

  • Moab: Known for its stunning red rock formations, Moab is just a short drive from Monticello.
  • Four Corners Monument: Visit the only place in the United States where four states meet.

Conclusion

Monticello is a beautiful and exciting destination that offers something for everyone. With its unique blend of history, culture, and outdoor adventures, Monticello is the perfect place to explore southwestern Utah. Start planning your trip today!