A Quick Stop at Forrest Gump Point in Mexican Hat, Utah
Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. This means I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. The reviews of the items in this article are based on my own opinions. Disclosure policy https://www.adoptinglifesjourney.com/blog/disclosure-policy
Forrest Gump Point
I love to find unique places to visit on our travels throughout the United States and Forrest Gump Point was one of those locations that offered a beautiful landscape yet holds a history inspired by the 1994 movie Forrest Gump starring Tom Hanks. Forrest embarked on a cross-country run for many reasons which were driven by a desire of freedom, self-discovery, and the need for simplicity. Forrest Gump Point, located near Mexican Hat, Utah, gained significance as it marked the end of his extraordinary run. To be honest, I had never watched that movie until the month before we decided to take this trip. I knew that if I wanted to stop at this iconic spot for a picture, I needed to have an understanding of the significance of this location. It did not disappoint!
Mexican Hat, Utah in Monument Valley
Forrest Gump Point is located in Mexican Hat, Utah within the beautiful Monument Valley. It is located off of scenic highway 163. There are pull offs on each side of the highway for you to park. You will know you are there when you see the multiple cars pulled off the side of the road. This iconic stop is FREE to visit.
Once parked you can walk into the middle of the road for the epic instagrammable picture. People are usually more than willing to take your picture in exchange for you taking theirs. WARNING: I would encourage you to exercise caution as there are fast-moving cars on the highway. As vehicles speed back and forth, it becomes imperative for visitors to be vigilant and aware of your surroundings. The breathtaking views of the surrounding desert and rock formations make this spot enchanting, but safety should remain your top priority. When we were there a car was driving faster toward us, we felt he was trying to hit us or was mad we were in the highway. Luckily everyone there was kind and watching out for others, so we got out of the way quick enough.
GPS coordinates: 37.101445, -109.990812
We stopped at this location after our visit to Four Corners National Monument and on our way to Bryce Canyon National Park. Two places you must add to your bucket list while driving through Utah.
Hours from Four Corners National Monument 1 hour 24 min (82 miles)
Hours to Bryce Canyon National Park 4 hours 46 min (286 miles)
Hours to Zion National Park 3 hours 58 minutes (239 miles)
***travel hours subject to change depending on traffic and weather
Purchase your America the Beautiful annual pass HERE.
pic: capegazette.com. This image presents that scene in the movie where Forrest Gump is running. See the same Monument Valley in the background as my picture below.
Monument Valley in the background
Some of our favorite Amazon travel and hiking finds
Road Atlas - for those areas where you have no cell signal
Teva sandals - I wear these All.The.Time when hiking
Nalgene water bottle - always stay hydrated
Traction boards - don’t get stuck in the middle of nowhere without traction boards
The above picture is taken in the parking area. This would be a safer place to take the picture if you do not want to stand in the middle of the road.
Map of Forrest Gump Point location
WANT THIS FREE PRINTABLE FULL-PAGE GUIDE TO 6 AMAZING PLACES TO VISIT IN UTAH?
SIGN UP with your email address below to receive this for FREE.
While in Utah, take the 4x4 U-Drive T-Rex Hell’s Revenge Tour for an amazing thrill ride. I guarantee you will love it! We took this tour a year ago and the staff go above and beyond to make sure you are satisfied with your adventure.
Below is the picture of the view of Monument Valley as we drove by.
Mini dust devil
What a fun and iconic stop in Utah. I love these quick spots to visit along our journey. I loved the surrounding Monument Valley, and the view was perfect. We also saw a mini dust devil which was fun to watch. See video below.
Enjoy a private slot canyon UTV tour
This private tour will take you to the peek-a-boo slot canyon on a UTV. Prices start at $128 per person.
Forrest Gump’s final journey
This picturesque location, with its vast desert landscape and striking rock formations, serves as a reminder of Forrest Gump’s epic journey and his spirit of resilience. I hope this post gives you an idea of another enjoyable stop while in Utah. Utah is so full of fun and adventure you have to add this state to your bucket list.
Enjoy your journey,
Meet the Author: Jennifer
I’m just a girl who loves to travel. My favorite travels have been traveling across the US in a campervan, visiting all-inclusive resorts in Mexico, marking National Parks off my list, & many smaller trips. I love to share my adventures to inspire others to travel more. If you can dream it, you can do it! Want the whole story?
Pin it for later
London is a city that provides an array of culinary delights, offering something for every palate and budget. Whether you are craving the classic comfort of fish and chips, seeking the elegance of an afternoon tea, or wanting to dine at the iconic first Hard Rock Cafe in the word, London’s food scene has you covered.