Sometimes, when you’ve witnessed the splendor of one natural wonder, you think you’ve seen it all. That’s precisely how we felt after gazing in awe at Horseshoe Bend near Page, Arizona, last night. Little did we know that today, another remarkable treasure awaited us just a short drive away. Goosenecks State Park, nestled in the heart of southern Utah, proved that Mother Nature’s wonders know no bounds.
A Geological Marvel
Goosenecks State Park is an often-overlooked gem in the American Southwest. Nestled near the southern border of Utah, just a short distance from the charming town of Mexican Hat, this state park offers an unparalleled view of a geological masterpiece. The San Juan River, over millions of years, has carved deep meanders into the landscape, creating a series of intricate bends. In total, there are not one but five majestic meanders, each more awe-inspiring than the last.
As we stood at the park’s edge, we couldn’t help but be humbled by the immense scale of these incised meanders. Erosion, sculpted by the tireless forces of water, wind, frost, and gravity, had given birth to this geological marvel. It was as if we were witnessing the Earth’s history etched into the very land beneath our feet.
A Rustic Retreat
Goosenecks State Park maintains its wild and unspoiled character. There are no sprawling visitor centers or paved pathways here, just raw and untamed beauty. The park offers primitive campsites scattered along the cliff’s edge, each one equipped with picnic tables. Vault toilets are available, but campers are advised to bring their own essentials, including water, food, and camping gear. It’s a place where you can truly connect with the natural world and immerse yourself in solitude.
A Starry Night Spectacle
One of the park’s unique draws is its designation as an International Dark Sky Park by The International Dark-Sky Association in March 2021. This means that Goosenecks State Park is a haven for stargazers and night photographers. With little light pollution due to its remote location, the night sky comes alive with a dazzling display of stars. We couldn’t resist staying up late to witness the celestial show, and it was a breathtaking experience we won’t soon forget.
Exploration Beyond the Edge
While Goosenecks State Park itself doesn’t offer developed hiking trails, there’s an adventurous option a few miles to the northwest: the Honaker Trail. This trail provides access to the San Juan River and an opportunity to explore the rugged terrain of the region.
Nearby Attractions
Our visit to Goosenecks State Park was part of a larger adventure through this stunning corner of the American Southwest. Just a short drive from Goosenecks, you’ll find the quirky and iconic Forrest Gump Point. It’s a place where you can recreate the famous scene from the movie and soak in the expansive views of Monument Valley in the distance. Goosenecks State Park is roughly 20 miles from Forrest Gump Point, making it a convenient stop on your journey.
Paving the Way
During our visit, we noticed that the main road leading to Goosenecks State Park was undergoing improvements. Fresh asphalt was being laid, which hinted at even better accessibility for future travelers. The road may have been temporarily disrupted, but it’s a clear sign of efforts to enhance the visitor experience.
A Delicious Lunch Overlooking the Goosenecks
We arrived at Goosenecks State Park around 1:30 pm and decided to enjoy a leisurely lunch overlooking the breathtaking bends. Our picnic spot offered uninterrupted views of the meanders below, and we savored our sandwiches and snacks as we marveled at the natural wonder before us.
A Difference in Bends
What sets Goosenecks State Park apart from other similar geological formations, like Horseshoe Bend, is the sheer number of bends. Instead of one dramatic bend, you’ll find five, each with its own unique character and beauty. While the drop-offs may not be as sheer as some other locations, the overall effect is no less dramatic. What truly sets this place apart is the absence of crowds. During our visit, we had the bends nearly all to ourselves, allowing us to fully immerse ourselves in the experience.
As we reflected on our visit to Goosenecks State Park, we marveled at the diversity of the natural wonders we’d encountered in such a short time. From the iconic Horseshoe Bend to the hidden gem of Goosenecks, southern Utah had captivated our hearts.
More info can be found here: https://stateparks.utah.gov/parks/goosenecks/
Join the RoadScout Adventure
Our journey through Goosenecks State Park was just one chapter in our ongoing adventure. If you share our passion for exploration, follow our travels on our website, RoadScout, or on social media. You can find us on Instagram @roadscoutvan and Facebook at facebook.com/roadscout.
Join us on the RoadScout adventure, where every turn of the road reveals a new marvel, and the spirit of exploration guides our way. Don’t miss the magic of Goosenecks State Park, waiting to take your breath away.
