A couple of attractions in Utah are on the way from Monument Valley to Horseshoe Bend, and we made a minor detour to visit them.
- Mexican Hat
- Goosenecks State Park
Mexican Hat – This curious rock formation shaped like a Mexican Hat is also the name of the town it resides in. You can see the rock as you drive along US 163. There is a dirt road that takes you closer to the rock. We spent 10 minutes admiring the rock and taking a few pictures.
Goosenecks State Park – Located about 10 miles from Mexican Hat, this is more a viewpoint than a park. The view is just stunning. We spent half an hour enjoying the San Juan River making a series of tight turns or goosenecks. Over a distance of one and a half miles, the San Juan River flows for more than six miles through the twists of the entrenched meander.
The above 2 sites are within 10 -15 minutes of each other. It is also within driving distance of nearby attractions like Monument Valley and Glen Canyon Recreation Area. We visited Monument valley, Mexican Hat, Gooseneck State Park, and Horseshoe Bend all in a day.