goosenecks state park

OregonStrider

You've probably seen this on some television program or movie, somewhere along the line. This is reported to be "the longest entrenched river meander in North America", which is believable once you see it for yourself. The San Juan River is 1,000 feet below you and cuts a canyon you've just got to experience. There is a paved road into the park and 5 bucks per rig to get you in, which is worth it just to see what the San Juan has cut. Use some caution as you photograph this scenic view as there are few barriers to keep you safe. I'm not posting any of my photographs.... you'll have to shoot your own!!!

sekharbvp

Do stop by this place in case you are passing by. This place is no less than Horseshoe Bend in Page. When we visited we were the only people at the spot and it was absolutely calm. We were able to hear the river flow and birds chirping.

Tiger810

Compared to the Dead Horse Point State Park, the curve here is much close. We visited it in the afternoon and had strong back light on photos. Early morning is much better to take photos.If you visit Monument valley and plan to go north for Arches and Canyonlands, don't forget spend 1.5-2 more hour to see the power of San Juan river in Gooseneck State Park. It will be a really worthy trip.

NeverUnpacked

A definite stop for a photo op. Amazing views much better than photos due to the scale of the place. Nothing else besides great views, the parking lot, some picnic tables and, as previously and accurately mentioned, the pit toilet from hell! I'm so glad we decided to take the extra few minutes to stop for pictures.

kakokk

Easy stop off the highway. Stop for a few minutes, chances are you have never seen anything like this. There is a picnic table set up for eating, but even a few minutes here is worth it.

Jac-and-Jek

If you happen to visit Monument Valley and Kayenta lodges are full, you will probably end up in Mexican Hat or Bluff. Then, dedicate some minutes to this small visit. From the route 163 take the 261 north, quite close north of Mexican Hat, then a small detour on the left, for 1 mile, you will reach the goosenecks of the San Juan river. If you had visited Horseshoe Bend, then this will disappoint you, but in any case it is interesting to see. The colors are very different from the Colorador river and Monument Valley. The park has a 2 USD entry fee, on an honor system (envelope-box). If you have time in the surroundings spend it here (and Valley of the Gods).

crystaln311

We stopped at the Goosenecks Park on our way to Monument Valley after hearing how beautiful the views are, and we were not disappointed. It's a short side trip while en route to Monument Valley and I highly recommend it. It is absolutely breathtaking. We had the park to ourselves and thoroughly enjoyed the views. We'd love to come back!

CCubed86

This is a fun, quick stop. We were on our way to Monument Valley so this was a quick side trip that only was about 10-15 minutes off of the main highway. We were glad we stopped - the geography was unlike anything I had ever seen, and the vista from the overlook was awe-inspiring. It wasn't very crowded, either.The entrance fee was on the "honor system" that a lot of people did not stop to pay (but we did). Maybe they could have better bathrooms if they had a manned entrance. These bathrooms (pit toilets) will go down in history as one of the WORST bathrooms in North America...and I have been to several pit toilets...so I know what "gross" is! "Gross" does not even begin to describe the evil that lurks there. I think the ammonia levels in so high that even the flies were dying. These bathrooms will forever be burned into our memories...Avoid these bathrooms at all cost! Use a cactus if you have to! If you value your life DON'T GO IN THERE!

Quenten1

The Goosenecks are a section deeply carved valleys that loop like goosenecks into the plain. Heavily photoed, they are well known in many nature books and calendars. To see Nature's glory firsthand makes the short side trip to this attraction worth the time.

MrNjorl

This unassuming but fantastic canyon is worth the side-trip if you are visiting Monument Valley. A 90 minute round trip which also includes the famous Mile 13 view and Mexican Hat. Apart from a lone Navajo lady selling jewelry, and toilet facilities, this is an undeveloped state park. Quiet, and no hiking necessary!

RichJ_12

I read about this place on the internet and on our road trip decided to take a quick side trip to it while on the way to Monument Valley. Very unique view of the winding San Juan river and how much it has eroded the land. We didn't stay at it but we noticed a spartan campgrounds here also. Other than that there is a bathroom and parking area for the viewpoint. You would need a very wide angle lens to take it all in with one photo, or do a panorama shot I guess. I would certainly take the time to see this if you are driving nearby.

brian_pound

This is at the end of a dead end road. Get out of the car and look over the edge to see (what is claimed to be) the best example of a meandering river in the USA. The way the water has eroded the San Juan river is amazing and the view point really lets you appreciate what it has done. It's a heck of a drop to the bottom so keep away from the edge.

WayneR516

The drive in is uninspiring, but the attraction is sort of unique and easy to view. Parking is good and it was not crowded. You need to plan a morning or late afternoon for decent picyures.

191jamesl

This is a min grand canyon with easy access. Go north from Monument Valley to Blanding, Utah and follow the sign. No charge and bathrooms also. You get a great view of the power of a river to cut through the rock formation. I did not know this was here but a woman from the View told me to take a look. Also near Medicine Hat rock formation.

DorsetgirlLondon

Having previously seen horseshoe bend near page I was sceptical about whether I would be impressed, but I was pleasantly surprised.The curves and depth of the river are vast and it has a little picnic area that's perfect for admiring the view.The $2 entrance fee provides very basic facilities, but it's not a place you'll stay for hours. It is however worth a visit if in the area.