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Mexican Hat Rock Utah is a rock formation in Mexican Hat, Utah that looks like a sombrero sitting onto of a rock pillar! It’s right off of Utah Highway 163, and can be seen from miles and miles away.
Most people stop at Mexican Hat Rock in Utah for a quick photo before continuing down the road to Monument Valley or up the road to Valley Of The Gods, but did you know you can actually hike the Mexican Hat Rock?
It’s a short hike, right around one mile in total, and is relatively easy, with a few areas of rock scrambling and a couple spots that may be sketchy for those afraid of heights.
However, the views from Mexican Hat Rock are incredible, and on a clear day you can see all the way into Monument Valley!
Mexican Hat Rock Trail Stats
- Location | Mexican Hat, Utah | 37.175708, -109.853357
- Length | 1.2 miles lollipop loop
- Duration | 30-45 minutes
- Difficulty | easy with one section of rock scrambling
The Mexican Hat Rock Utah Trailhead
- Find It On Google Here | 37.175708, -109.853357
Located less than half a mile from highway 163, the trailhead to Mexican Hat Rock is an unmarked parking area at the base of the rock.
To access the trailhead, you’ll need to drive almost half a mile down a well maintained dirt road. Ignore the paid for parking/camping signs. This area is on BLM land and is free to the public.
The parking area is located right on the left of the dirt road, just before crossing over a cattle guard. If you’ve passed over the cattle guard, you’ve gone to far, but can still park and just walk back if you fancy a little bit of a longer hike.
The Start Of Mexican Hat Rock Trail
There is no defined starting point or real trailhead to get up Mexican Hat Rock. Instead, there’s a bit of a 4×4 road, that’s really not in use anymore, that you walk up, and then you’ll see a trail leading up to Mexican Hat.
It’s really easy to spot if you’re facing Mexican Hat Rock from the highway side of the rock.
What To Expect Along The Mexican Hat Rock Utah Trail
Start With An Easy Trail
The start of the trail is really easy, with very gradual elevation gain, and pretty compact dirt. Some of the dirt and rocks can slip out from under you, so be careful to not step too close to the ledge.
The first bit of the hike, the trail is pretty easy to follow and there’s no difficult rock scrambling or climbing. However, you’ll soon see the trail leads you to a short section of rock climbing.
A Short Area Of Rock Climbing
Thankfully, while this area is steep, it’s pretty easy, and there are multiple good hand holds and foot spots. This is the most difficult part of the entire hike, unless you choose to do the class three climbing to get to the actual base of Mexican Hat Rock.
It’s worth noting, this little climbing area is a proper climb, and slipping could lead to you falling down the edge of the cliff. Do this section with extreme caution and only if you’re confident you can get both up and down the rock face.
On A Ledge
After you climb the rock, you’ll have a great view of both Mexican Hat Rock and the surrounding area. I, Heather, am sometimes afraid of heights and I felt completely fine this entire time.
You’ll be walking on some loose rock here, so be careful where you’re stepping, and be sure to stay away from the edge, as some of the rocks are actual overhangs and can give out below you.
From this ledge, you’ll see a trail leading through a short four foot wide section with a drop on both sides, before gaining a little bit more elevation directly at the base of Mexican Hat Rock.
Circumnavigating Mexican Hat Rock Utah
After crossing the skinny section, you’ll see a trail that circumnavigates the lower base of Mexican Hat Rock. Jay and I hiked around this trail enjoying the 360 degrees of views, but didn’t go up to the next level of Mexican Hat Rock, which puts you directly at the base.
There were a couple of areas we saw that you could hike up to the base, but neither of the spots we felt completely safe in doing so, especially with the wind. And we were quite happy with the views from the bottom trail, so we didn’t test going any higher.
Returning To The Trailhead
After taking in the views and circumnavigating Mexican Hat Rock, return to the trailhead the same way you approached the rock. There are some great photo opportunities on the way down of the surrounding canyons and painted hillside!
With the extreme wind we had the day we hiked Mexican Hat Rock, we didn’t pack any snacks or beverages to enjoy from the top. However, if it’s not too windy, the views are great and there are multiple large flat areas creating the perfect place to have a picnic!
Where To Stay Near Mexican Hat Rock
Mexican Hat Rock is in Mexican Hat Utah, and there’s some epic free BLM camping right at the base of Mexican Hat Rock. There are also a couple of cute little stays in Mexican Hat, one even with a pool!
Recommended Stays in Mexican Hat Utah
- Mexican Hat Lodge | Cheapest in town.
- Hat Rock Inn | This place has a pool.
- San Juan Inn | Right on the San Juan River.
READ MORE | Check out our complete guide to Mexican Hat Utah here.
You’ve Hiked Mexican Hat Rock, What’s Next?
We hiked Mexican Hat Rock after staying just under the rock for a few days. We also made sure to get out and photograph Monument Valley and do a few more things in the surrounding area, like the scenic Valley Of The Gods drive, and more.
Check out more of our posts on Southeast Utah to round out an epic time in the area below.
More On Southeast Utah
Mexican Hat, Utah | A guide to the town of Mexican Hat, where to stay, and 5 things to do in the area.
Valley Of The Gods Guide | The Do’s And Don’ts Of Valley Of The Gods + Is It Suitable For Your Vehicle?
Getting The Shot of Monument Valley | when to photograph, how to avoid the crowds, and best camera for the iconic Forrest Gump Viewpoint photo
5 Epic Camping Locations Near Monument Valley | with the Navajo Nation being on one side of Monument Valley, you need to be sure your camping spots are legal. Check out these 5 places we recommend.
The Perfect Southeast Utah Itinerary | Leaving from Vegas, and making one incredible loop.
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