Carved by the winding path of the San Juan River, Goosenecks State Park in nearby Mexican Hat is a testament to nature’s artistry over millions of years. Bear witness to one of the most striking examples of an “entrenched meander” — a geological marvel where the river coils and curves, creating deep gooseneck-shaped canyons. Take the 1.8-mile viewpoint trail to drink in the multi-layered terraces of rock revealing over 300 million years of geological history. The river meanders around tight bends, flowing a distance of over six miles while advancing merely one and a half miles on its westward course.

The San Juan River has been a life source for various civilizations for centuries. Ancient Puebloans inhabited the surrounding areas, their presence marked by nearby ruins and rock art.

What’s the best time to visit? Sunset is maybe a tad more amazing because the light lingers longer. But sunrise anywhere around here is magical too. The sun has to be fairly high in the sky, though, to catch light on the river.

Within a stone’s throw of Bluff, the Sand Island Petroglyph Panel is a vivid chronicle of the area’s rich history. The ancient petroglyphs were etched into a sandstone cliff by Ancestral Puebloan people and other cultures. Look for representations of bighorn sheep, human figures, and intricate geometric designs, each a puzzle piece in a millennia-old story. Dated as far back as 1500 BC, these petroglyphs bring the past to life in a tangible way.

Mexican Hat Rock, named for its unusual, sombrero-like shape, is a flat-topped rock balancing on a much smaller base. It was sculpted by the relentless forces of wind and water over millions of years. Take the kinda challenging 0.7-mile out-and-back.