Tear Drop Arch Tour (3SNGT Tear Drop Arch)

Exploring the Tear Drop Arch in Horseshoe Canyon is an unparalleled adventure. Guided by local Navajo experts, visitors embark on a hike to witness the stunning 50-foot tall arch and ancient petroglyphs. The tour emphasizes cultural insights and natural beauty, offering an enriching experience for all. While not wheelchair accessible, the tour invites a maximum of 20 participants to discover this captivating landscape. With bottled water provided and snacks allowed, adventurers are well-equipped to delve deeper into the mysteries of this remarkable region.

Key Points

• The Tear Drop Arch Tour offers a guided hike to the iconic 50-foot tall, 30-foot wide natural rock formation in Horseshoe Canyon, southeast Monument Valley.
• The tour is led by local Navajo experts, providing informative insights about the landscape, culture, and history of the region.
• The hiking difficulty is rated as easy-to-medium, suitable for participants with a moderate level of physical fitness.
• Participants can expect to see dramatic sandstone walls, ancient petroglyphs, and serene pools during the tour.
• The tour has a maximum group size of 20 and includes bottled water, while park entrance fees must be purchased separately.

Tour Overview and Details

The Tear Drop Arch Tour, also known as the 3SNGT Tear Drop Arch tour, takes participants on a guided exploration of Horseshoe Canyon located in the southeast region of Monument Valley, USA.

The tour is classified as easy-to-medium difficulty hiking, suitable for travelers with a moderate level of physical fitness. The group size is limited to a maximum of 20 people, ensuring a personalized experience.

While the tour duration isn’t specified, it provides bottled water, and participants are welcome to bring their own drinks and snacks, disposing of trash properly.

Inclusions and Meeting Information

The Tear Drop Arch Tour includes bottled water for participants, who may also bring their own drinks and snacks, though they must dispose of trash properly.

The tour meets at the Monument Valley Visitor Center parking lot, at the turquoise tour booth/kiosk, and returns to the same location.

Park entrance fees aren’t included and must be purchased separately online or at the toll booth.

Travelers should note that cell service may be unreliable, so they should provide a working phone number and email for communication.

A minimum of 2 people is required for the tour, and single travelers may need to purchase a second ticket if no other tour is scheduled.

Guides and Communication

Local Navajo guides familiar with the area lead the Tear Drop Arch Tour. They provide informative commentary about the landscape and local culture throughout the experience.

Travelers are encouraged to ask questions and engage with the guides to gain deeper insights. While cell service may be unreliable in the remote location, the tour company provides a working phone number and email for communication before and after the tour.

It’s important to note that a 2-person minimum is required for the tour, and single travelers may need to purchase an additional ticket if no other tour is scheduled.

Health and Safety Information

The Tear Drop Arch Tour is not wheelchair accessible, though service animals are allowed. The tour is not recommended for travelers with back problems or serious medical conditions, as it requires a moderate level of physical fitness. Safety is of utmost importance, and guides are well-versed in the area’s terrain and environmental conditions.

Health and Safety Considerations
Wheelchair Accessibility	No
Service Animals Allowed	Yes
Back Problems/Medical Conditions	Not Recommended
Physical Fitness Level Required	Moderate
Gratuity for Guides	Appreciated

Weather and Clothing Recommendations

Depending on the season, weather conditions for the Tear Drop Arch Tour can vary significantly.

Summers are typically hot, while winters can be quite cold. Participants should check the weather forecast when booking their tour and dress accordingly.

Hiking boots or comfortable shoes are recommended, as sandals may not be suitable, especially during the summer months.

For winter tours, evening excursions are limited, so travelers should verify sunset times.

Blankets are available for those taking the tour in open-air vehicles. Guests who require an enclosed vehicle can communicate their needs in advance to ensure their comfort throughout the experience.

Navigating the Horseshoe Canyon

Guided by their Navajo experts, participants begin their journey into the captivating Horseshoe Canyon. The trail winds through the dramatic sandstone walls, offering stunning views at every turn.

As they explore the canyon, hikers encounter three key features:

1. The iconic Tear Drop Arch, a natural rock formation that frames the distant landscape.
2. Ancient petroglyphs and pictographs, reminders of the area’s rich cultural heritage.
3. Serene pools of water, a rare oasis in this arid environment, providing a refreshing respite during the hike.

The guides skillfully navigate the terrain, sharing their deep knowledge of the land and its history, ensuring a memorable and enriching experience for all.

Exploring the Tear Drop Arch

Often, the Tear Drop Arch comes into view as hikers make their way through the dramatic sandstone walls of Horseshoe Canyon. This natural wonder, carved by the forces of wind and water, offers a captivating sight. Visitors can explore the arch and its surrounding landscape, taking in the stunning vistas.

Feature	Description
Height	Approximately 50 feet tall
Width	Measures around 30 feet across
Composition	Formed from Navajo Sandstone
Location	Situated in the southeastern part of Monument Valley
Access	Reached via a moderate hike from the trailhead

The Tear Drop Arch exemplifies the remarkable geological diversity of the region, inviting visitors to marvel at the power of nature and the timeless beauty of this iconic landmark.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Photography Permits Required for the Tour?

Photography permits aren’t mentioned in the tour details. However, visitors should check with the tour provider or park authorities before the tour to determine if any photography permits are required during the hike.

Can We Bring Pets on the Tour?

Service animals are allowed on the tour, but pets are not permitted. Travelers should avoid bringing non-service animals as the tour is not designed to accommodate them, and their presence may disrupt the experience for other participants.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have any specific age restrictions. However, it’s recommended for travelers with a moderate fitness level, as the hike can be strenuous for young children or the elderly. Guides can provide guidance on suitability based on individual needs.

Is Transportation Provided From Nearby Hotels?

The tour does not provide transportation from nearby hotels. Travelers are responsible for arranging their own transportation to the meeting point, the Monument Valley Visitor Center parking lot, where the tour begins.

Can We Extend the Tour Duration if Desired?

The tour duration can be extended if desired, though this is not explicitly stated in the overview. Travelers should communicate any requests for a longer tour duration directly with the tour operator prior to booking.

Recap

The Tear Drop Arch Tour offers a captivating exploration of Horseshoe Canyon, showcasing the stunning 50-foot tall Tear Drop Arch and ancient petroglyphs. Guided by knowledgeable Navajo experts, participants embark on a moderate hike to enjoy the natural beauty and cultural insights of this captivating landscape. Though not wheelchair accessible, the tour accommodates up to 20 guests, ensuring an enriching adventure for all.