Forrest Gump Point

Forrest Gump Point

For those of us who were enthralled with the majestic journey of a simple man from Greenbow, Alabama, Forrest Gump Point is a must see moment. The spot is where the long bearded Gump finally got tired and decided to go home.

The real spot is just outside of Mexican Hat, Utah near the entrance of Monument Valley. Nineteen miles from the Arizona border on US-163 is where you will find the spot that is marked by a green road sign. Either side of the two-lane highway has a few pull-offs to park. Local stands also sell memorabilia around the highway. Much like the movie, there isn’t a ton of fanfare for the location, and the surrounding beauty steals the show from the official spot.

The Game of Frogger

While the internet and film world may show Forrest Gump point as a serene and quiet place, I found that to be anything but the truth. I am sure at some times of year or day there is some peace to be found here but I certainly didn’t find that. Instead, it was an aggressive game of dodge the car. Between each speeding car small pockets of people would run back to the middle of the road looking for that perfect shot!

The sheer amount of people made it a challenge to get a picture that wasn’t just full of people. The further you ventured in the road, the better chance of getting in trouble with the next group of cars that passed. The traffic isn’t too consistent. At the same time there rarely was more than a few minutes that it was clear.

The whole experience took on a frenzied pitch. People were running into the road between cars and trying to pose for the perfect selfie. Tougher yet were the large groups trying to get out and organized before the next steel stallion appeared. Controlled, and a little uncontrolled, chaos was the rule of the day. Despite the chaos, I am really glad I took the time to get over to this location and see the point. Not only did the movie have a large impact on my younger years, but so did seeing the amazing views available in our world.

Monument Valley

The background providing the amazing views around Forrest Gump Point is Monument Valley. If you continue down to Arizona you can get some really nice views of the several rock formations that make up the valley. From thick mesa’s to towering spires, the valley is pretty remarkable. Unfortunately, I only got to see if from the road but can’t wait to make it back another time when I have more time to really explore!

Getting to Forrest Gump Point

Forrest Gump Point is located on Highway 163 in Southern Utah about 19 miles from the Arizona Border. There are no facilities at the location. It is really just accessed from some pull-offs on the side of the road. The closest town in Mexican Hat in Utah. There is a campground a few miles away though.

More from The Fatman

you enjoyed this post you may enjoy more of the posts on my Fatman’s Rambling page. Blogs such as “Screw it, I’m Trying”, “Hiking Alone not Lonely Hiking“, “Winslow, Arizona” and “Another Year” as well as many others may interest you there. If you have any comments or topics you would like me to cover, feel free to email me at fatmanlittletrails@gmail.com. Or you can keep the conversation going by following me on any of the below social media platforms.

Some more Photos of Forrest Gump Point and Monument Valley