Iconic Utah: Goosenecks, Mexican Hats, Forrest Gump, and Betatakin Ruins

Dear Isaac, Maia, and Virtual Wanderers,

Today was a busy day of Southwestern icons. We started with an early morning walk around the Goosenecks. Then it was time to pack the gear and head down Utah 163 towards Monument Valley. Here is our route for the day.

Kokopelli, Kachina and Cimarron at Goosnecks State Park.
Morning light at Goosnecks State Park.

It’s only a few miles until you can see the Mexican Hat Rock out the left windows. It’s similar geology to the Goosenecks. We stop for so.e roadside photography.

Mexican Hat Rock

It’s not far from there to Forrest Gump Point. We stopped for the iconic photos and I shopped at the Navajo jewelry stand. I’m calling the dogs the Gump Girls.

Kachina, Cimarron, Kokopelli and I pose at Forest Gump Point.
Three Amigas at Forrest Gump Point.

From there, we continued south to the Monument Valley turn-off. We spent maybe an hour there, mostly getting dog photos. I never end up with Monument Valley souvenirs because it’s always too hot to leave dogs in the car. I wish they had outdoor food stands because my favorite Navajo taco place in Keyenta is closed Monday. We had Sonic. Sigh.

Three little puppies found their mittens.
Hogan at Monument Valley.
Mittens at Monument Valley.

Then on to Navajo National Monument. This is a great place to camp. It’s free! And beautiful red canyon featuring Betatakin Ruins. After we got the tent set up, we headed to the Visitor’s Center and hiked down to the ruins. They are amazing to see.

Hike to Betatakin Ruins.
Hike to the Betatakin Ruins at Navajo National Monument.
Betatakin Ruins.

Four days on the road and I’m tired but inspired. It was a day of the iconic Southwest. Tomorrow, we continue west on our Utah Frisson II trip. Our trip includes 5 State Parks. I call it the Utah Mini 5. Goosenecks was the first. Tomorrow, we land at the second.

TTFN, GM Hartt

Update 9.22: Here is an Instagram video I did with more photos of this trip.