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About Mexican Hat
The community of Mexican Hat derives its name from a balanced rock atop a pinnacle next to the town which resembles a Mexican Sombrero. The city lies on the banks of the San Juan River as it passes through the rugged and dry terrain of southeastern Utah. Cliffs drop nearly into the river along much of its passage by Mexican Hat, with the exception of one spot on a bend in the river next to the town. Part of the town occupies this broader area, while part of it is packed into a narrow space between the river and a cliff.
Mexican Hat lies in an oil field which has no doubt been a factor in its development. However, recent times have been hard on the town, as its population has declined from 259 in 1990 to 88 in 2000. U.S. Highway 163 passes east-west through Mexican Hat, crossing the river here. The elevation is 4,130 feet. Mexican Hat is in a remote area. Blanding, a town of 3,000 people, is some 40 miles to the northeast. The ruggedness of the terrain leaves limited routes for travel in the area, and made it difficult for settlers to reach this area in earlier days.
The Navajo Indian Reservation lies on the other side of the river, and a major portion of Mexican Hat’s population is Native American. Monument Valley and Valley of the Gods are nearby scenic attractions. The Arizona border is about ten miles to the south as the crow flies, but much further by road.
For More Information:
See the Wikipedia article Mexican Hat, Utah.
Street Index
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East Third Avenue Main Street River View Drive |
San Juan River U.S. Highway 163 |