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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
This spot is located in Mexican Hat, Utah within the beautiful Monument Valley. Forrest Gump Point 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
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