Our plan was to reach Monument Valley for the
sunset. Due to our greedy mind with extra stop in Natural Bridge, the objective
became a little more challenging.
We chased the sun all the way from Utah to Arizona, and finally got to the
famous location for dazzling sunset view. Great drive !
Utah Rt 261
The downhill section of Utah 261 is a good place to
test your nerve. Your life is relied on the stability of driver's hand
and the reliability of modern automobile manufacturing. It might be my illusion
but I though I saw a wreckage of what used to be a car down the cliff.
However, the view was so beautiful. This picture was shot inside the car
(Remember ? we were in a hurry and we didn't have time to stop).
Mexican Hat
Mexican Hat. Yes, yes, I know this bridge could be
pictured more beautifully and it did deserve better attention.
What would you expect from
a picture taken inside a fast-moving car ?
Monument Valley
Technically speaking, we did not actually enter
the Monument Valley. We ran out of time and eventually stopped at the best
location we could find at the best time, and it happened to be the state line
between Utah and Arizona off Rt 163. I couldn't say that it was "the best",
but at least it was optimal for the time.
Monument Valley
Sunset
You probably have see a lot of western movies
filmed in this famous location.
It did seem to be right if some cowboys rode across
the scene. Sorry, in reality there were only cars and trucks.
I spent a lot of efforts to
take my aim in order to dodge the RV's and gift shops along the baseline.
Monument Valley
Sunset
(Click for enlarged view 26K)
We should go inside the Monument Valley but
time did not allow. Nevertheless, the sunset and the scene
still looked magnificent.