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Recreation AreaRecreation.gov

Goosenecks State Park

Mexican Hat, Utah · San Juan County

The goosenecks of the San Juan are a rare and amazing geologic formation. And this view point of the river is easy to get to. Take the paved road right to the park and check out how the river has carved a gorge into the plateau. Peer down 1,000 feet to the river below and extend your view outwards to formations as far …

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About Goosenecks State Park

The goosenecks of the San Juan are a rare and amazing geologic formation. And this view point of the river is easy to get to. Take the paved road right to the park and check out how the river has carved a gorge into the plateau. Peer down 1,000 feet to the river below and extend your view outwards to formations as far away as Arizona. The walls of the canyon are made from shale and limestone and are more than 300 million years old. The river loops several times from the main vantage point. Over 1.5 miles as the crow flies, the river actually flows six miles due to the crooked bends in the San Juan. While there are no hiking trails within the park, there is a rugged and challenging path into the canyon at the nearby Honaker Trail. The park is about 50 minutes from Monument Valley Navajo Tribal park to the south and Natural Bridges National Monument to the north, so is an excellent stop on Utah's Road to Mighty.

How to Get There

Approximately 349 miles southeast of Salt Lake City. 25 miles west of Bluff along US 163, west on SR 261, then southwest on SR 316

Driving directions (Google Maps) →

Plan Your Visit to Goosenecks State Park

Heading to Goosenecks State Park? A few things to know before you go:

  • Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
  • Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
  • Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
  • Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
  • Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a reservation for Goosenecks State Park?

No central reservation system listed for Goosenecks State Park. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/recarea/14755) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How do I get to Goosenecks State Park?

Approximately 349 miles southeast of Salt Lake City. 25 miles west of Bluff along US 163, west on SR 261, then southwest on SR 316

How do I contact Goosenecks State Park?

You can reach the park at phone: 435-678-3348.