The Mittens | Mexican Hat

The Mittens are a pair of sandstone buttes located in Monument Valley, within the Navajo Nation, near Mexican Hat, Utah.

Visual Characteristics

These prominent geological formations consist of two large, conical sandstone buttes. The rock is primarily red sandstone, with distinct horizontal layering visible. The taller butte, known as West Mitten, stands approximately 1,000 feet (300 meters) above the valley floor. East Mitten is slightly shorter. The surrounding landscape is characterized by sparse desert vegetation, including sagebrush and occasional juniper trees.

Location & Access Logistics

The Mittens are situated within Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park. Access is via U.S. Route 163. The park entrance is approximately 17 miles (27 km) north of Mexican Hat, Utah. From the park entrance, follow the unpaved scenic drive loop, which is approximately 17 miles (27 km) long. The Mittens are visible from this loop. Parking is available at designated pull-offs along the scenic drive. No public transport directly serves the Mittens; visitors typically arrive by private vehicle or guided tour.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The Mittens are composed of Cedar Mesa Sandstone, formed during the Permian period approximately 280 million years ago. These buttes are erosional remnants, sculpted by wind and water over millennia from a larger sandstone formation. They are part of the Colorado Plateau's geological history.

Key Highlights & Activities

Photography of the buttes is a primary activity. The scenic drive loop offers multiple viewpoints for observation and photography. Guided tours, often led by Navajo guides, are available and provide access to areas not reachable by self-guided visitors, including cultural insights. Hiking is permitted on designated trails within the park, such as the Valley Floor Trail which circles the base of the Mittens.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available at the park's visitor center. Limited shade is provided by natural rock overhangs at specific viewpoints. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally unreliable within the valley. Food vendors are typically located near the visitor center, offering basic snacks and drinks.

Best Time to Visit

For photography, early morning and late afternoon provide optimal lighting conditions due to the low angle of the sun, which accentuates the buttes' textures and colors. The best months for weather are typically April through May and September through October, offering moderate temperatures. Summer months (June-August) can experience high temperatures exceeding 100°F (38°C).

Facts & Legends

Navajo tradition holds that the Mittens are ancient beings turned to stone. Specifically, West Mitten is said to represent a mother, and East Mitten her child. The smaller butte to the north, known as Sentinel, is believed to be a warrior watching over them. A specific tip for visitors is to look for the "Totem Pole," a tall, slender sandstone spire located near the Mittens, visible from certain points on the scenic drive.

Nearby Landmarks

• Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park Visitor Center (0.2km West)
• Three Sisters Buttes (1.5km Southwest)
• John Ford's Point (2.0km West)
• Artist's Point (2.5km West)
• Mitten Viewpoint (0.1km East)