Mexican Hat: River Routes and Scenic Byway

Planning a Trip to Mexican Hat

Mexican Hat offers several concrete points to consider when planning a trip: sections of the San Juan River, Mexican Hat Rock, and US Highway 163. If you’re looking for a hotel in Mexican Hat, first decide whether you’ll spend most of your time on a multi-day river trip or visiting road and rock destinations. The different route lengths and typical travel times help you plan the river trip; the rock and bridge offer additional concrete destinations for your trip.

Mexican Hat Rock and the River

Mexican Hat Rock is located on US Highway 163 and rises above the west bank of the San Juan River in southeastern Utah. The rock formation lies north of the town of Mexican Hat; this location helps distinguish the rock from the town of the same name. Its shape resembles an upside-down sombrero. A short trail leads to the rock, while two climbing routes ascend to the “Hat.” The trail to the rock and the climbing routes are different ways to include the rock in your trip plans. Check local conditions before hiking or climbing.

Two Sections of the San Juan

The Upper San Juan runs from Sand Island near Bluff to Mexican Hat. Most boaters cover the approximately 27-mile route in two to three days. The Lower San Juan begins near Mexican Hat and runs to Clay Hills Crossing. Its approximately 57 miles are typically covered in four to five days. The comparison provides two different timeframes for planning a river trip: the Lower is approximately twice as long as the Upper and is typically covered over more days. Check conditions and permits before a trip.

The Mexican Hat site has a boat ramp and a day-use area. Check current conditions at the site before departure.

Highway, Bridge, and Road Connections

The US Highway 163 – Arizona Border to Bluff Scenic Byway leads to Mexican Hat. Near Mexican Hat, the highway crosses the San Juan River over a historic bridge. Nearby, Valley of the Gods Road also branches off Highway 163 about 7.5 miles north of Mexican Hat and then connects with Highway 261. This helps distinguish the bridge at Mexican Hat from the turnoff farther north. Road conditions can vary; check conditions along your route before driving.

Local History on the San Juan

The town’s founding is also connected to the San Juan. In 1907, Emery Goodridge began drilling for oil along the river. His successful drilling sparked an oil boom that contributed to the founding of Mexican Hat. The river is therefore both a point of reference for the boating sections and part of the historical context of the town’s founding.

Discover more destinations: Blanding, Monticello, Oljato-Monument Valley, La Sal, Spanish Valley

Return to the main travel overview: San Juan County.