It was a 72-mile drive to Goosenecks State Park from where we were staying in Monticello, UT. But, we had heard so much about this place, that we wanted to see it for ourselves.
Considered one of the best examples of an entrenched river meander in North America, the San Juan River can be seen 1,000’ below as it twists and turns.
You can see several goosenecks from the rim trail along the mesa. The river flows 6 miles here but only advances west 1.5 miles toward Lake Powell. The river’s course is like a switchback trail. It’s crazy!
Our sweet girl, Sadie, is always curious about what is down below! She is very sure-footed and seems to know not to get too close to the edge (thankfully).
Seventy+ million years ago, the Colorado Plateau began rising and the final part of the inland sea drained to the southeast. Many anticlines and synclines were created in the process. The two primary drainage courses became the Colorado and San Juan rivers. As the land continued to rise, the rivers flowed faster causing the erosion that continues today. The oldest rocks (300M years old) are exposed at the bottom of these canyons and the most recent, of course, on top of the mesa where we were standing.
As we admired the panoramic views, Sadie was very comfortable taking a rest next to the rim..
Several thousand feet of soil have been eroded here over millions of years. The geologic history of the area is exposed in the cliff walls. In the distance, you can see a small speck that is Alhambra Rock.
It is one of several volcanic (igneous) intrusions in the area created by molten rock forced up through layers of stone.
Others include Shiprock to the east and Agathla Peak (previously known as El Capitan of the Desert) to the south. They are all now exposed by erosion. This is such a unique geologic sight…loved it.
Admission is $5/vehicle (up to 6 passengers). A short walk from the parking area will take you to the rim for incredible views of the goosenecks. Eight primitive camping sites ($10/night on first come basis) are available with vault toilets nearby (but it is very windy and tents are not recommended). A picnic area is available for visitors.
For additional information about the park, go to www.stateparks.utah.gov/parks/goosenecks/.
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