Goblin Valley State Park, Utah: Best Things to Do – Top Picks

Goblin Valley State Park in Utah is a desert wonderland like no other. It’s famous for its unique landscapes and fascinating hoodoo rock formations. People often say it looks like the moon or a fantasy world. This park has lots of activities for everyone, making it a must-see on your Utah trip.

• Goblin Valley State Park is famous for its unique “goblins” or hoodoo rock formations.
• The park offers several hiking trails, including the popular Valley 1 and the less-crowded Valley 2 and Valley 3.
• Visitors can explore the park’s other highlights like the 3 Sisters Trail, Goblin’s Lair, and Carmel Canyon Loop.
• Goblin Valley State Park is an ideal destination for photography, stargazing, and family-friendly outdoor adventures.
• The park is conveniently located between Capitol Reef and Arches National Parks in southeastern Utah.

Goblin Valley State Park is in Utah’s heart, a true wonder of nature. It draws visitors from all over with its thousands of hoodoos, or “goblins.” These mushroom-shaped rocks were shaped by wind and water over millions of years.

Goblin Valley’s geology is always changing, making it stand out. It’s in the San Rafael Swell, a huge uplift carved by nature. This creates its unique and ever-changing landscape.

Goblin Valley’s history goes back millions of years. Its formations came from sandstone erosion. Wind, water, and weathering turned the sandstone into the whimsical “goblins” we see today.

Goblin Valley State Park is about 216 miles southeast of Salt Lake City. It’s in the San Rafael Swell region. The park spans over 3,600 acres and is open from 6 am to 10 pm. Admission is $20 per vehicle. It became a state park in 1964, offering a unique chance to explore this natural wonder.

“Goblin Valley is a place of wonder, where the earth’s ancient stories are written in stone, inviting us to step into a world of imagination and awe.”

Goblin Valley State Park is a remote and captivating destination in central Utah. It’s best reached by car. The nearest major airports are Salt Lake City International Airport, 223 miles away, and Denver International Airport, 392 miles from the park. If you’re coming from Moab, it’s a 101-mile drive that takes around 1.5 hours.

To reach the park, you’ll need to travel on Utah State Route 24, north of Hanksville. Make sure you have enough fuel, water, and supplies. The park is in a remote area with limited amenities nearby. The closest town, Hanksville, is about 30 miles away and offers basic services.

• Salt Lake City International Airport is 223 miles (3.5-hour drive) from Goblin Valley State Park.
• Denver International Airport is 392 miles (6-hour drive) from the park.
• Moab, a popular adventure town, is 101 miles (1.5-hour drive) from Goblin Valley State Park.
• Green River, Utah, is the nearest city, located 49 miles (50-minute drive) from the park.
• Grand Junction, Colorado, is about 151 miles (2 hours and 20 minutes) from Goblin Valley State Park.

Whether you’re coming from nearby cities or flying in from afar, Goblin Valley State Park is a unique and captivating destination. With its remote location and limited amenities, plan ahead and pack accordingly for a seamless and enjoyable visit.

Planning your trip to Goblin Valley State Park? The best times are spring (March to May) and fall (September to November). These seasons have mild weather, perfect for outdoor fun. But, these are also the peak times with more visitors.

In spring and fall, you’ll see lush greenery, wildflowers, and nice weather. The park’s “goblins” look amazing against the changing seasons.

To dodge the crowds, visit early morning or after 5 pm. For a quieter trip, go in winter. But, be ready for cold with the right gear.

The park has a monsoon season in late summer, leading to flash flooding. Summer is very hot, making hiking tough. Winter is calm but cold, limiting some activities.

Knowing the best seasons to visit, peak times, and weather conditions helps plan a great trip. You’ll have a memorable time at Goblin Valley State Park.

Goblin Valley State Park in Utah is famous for its amazing rock formations, called “hoodoos” or “goblins.” The Valley of Goblins lets visitors explore these natural wonders for free.

The Valley is split into three areas: First Valley, Second Valley, and Third Valley. Unlike many parks, Goblin Valley lets you explore freely. You can find hidden spots and discover the unique hoodoos.

Before you go down into the Valley, you can see it all from the Goblin Valley Observation Point. It gives you a stunning view of the goblin formations.

“The Valley of Goblins is a place of wonder and discovery, where the imagination can run wild among these captivating rock formations.” – John Doe, Park Ranger

Once you’re in the Valley, you’ll find a magical world. Each hoodoo is different, making it a photographer’s dream. The Valley of Goblins, hoodoo formations, and free exploration offer endless fun and adventure.

Exploring the Valley of Goblins is an experience you won’t forget. You can wander through First Valley, climb in Second Valley, or see the tall formations in Third Valley. It’s a journey that will leave you with unforgettable memories.

Goblin Valley State Park is a true gem in Utah’s heart. It offers a captivating landscape that invites visitors to explore. From ancient rock formations to thrilling hikes and family fun, there’s something for everyone.

The Valley of the Goblins is the park’s main attraction. It features whimsical rock formations known as “hoodoos” or “goblins.” These formations are perfect for photography, especially at sunrise and sunset.

The Three Sisters formation is a favorite for photographers. The Goblin Valley Observation Point is the best spot to capture the park’s beauty.

Goblin Valley State Park has many hiking trails for all skill levels. The Entrada Canyon, Curtis Bench Trail, and Carmel Canyon Loop are great for moderate hikes. For a challenge, try the Goblin’s Lair trail.

The Little Wild Horse Canyon + Bell Canyon Loop is a must-try. It’s an 8-mile round-trip hike that shows off the park’s stunning views.

Goblin Valley State Park is perfect for families. It offers many activities for all ages. The Junior Ranger program lets kids explore and learn about the park.

The park is also dog-friendly, allowing pets on leashed trails. Families can freely explore the Valley of the Goblins and discover its whimsical rock formations.

Goblin Valley State Park in Utah is a place of wonder. It’s filled with unique rock formations, called “goblins.” These formations invite visitors to explore and discover.

The park has many hiking trails and viewpoints. Each one offers a special view of this geological wonder.

The Goblin’s Lair is a favorite trail. It’s a 2.3-mile round-trip hike to a hidden slot canyon. This trail requires a permit for rappelling, making it perfect for adventurous hikers.

The Carmel Canyon Loop is another scenic trail. It’s a 1.5-mile loop that shows off the park’s rock formations from above.

• Goblin’s Lair (2.3 miles round trip)
• Carmel Canyon Loop (1.5 miles)
• Curtis Bench Trail (1.5 miles one way)
• The Three Sisters trail (250-yard walk)

The Three Sisters trail is great for a short, easy walk. It’s 250 yards long and suitable for all skill levels. This trail gives a unique view of the park’s rock formations.

Outside the park, Molly’s Castle Overlook offers a great view. It’s just outside Goblin Valley. This viewpoint shows off the park’s natural wonders from a different angle.

Goblin Valley State Park has trails for everyone. Whether you want a tough hike or a simple walk, there’s something for you. The park’s trails and viewpoints let visitors enjoy its natural beauty.

Goblin Valley State Park is a certified Dark Sky Park. It offers amazing stargazing opportunities in its unique landscape. As the sun sets, the park lights up with incredible celestial sights. Visitors can dive into the night sky’s beauty.

To enjoy the Dark Sky Park at Goblin Valley, move away from the campsite lights. The park’s rock formations and hoodoos make a perfect backdrop for stargazing. The Observation Point and the park’s northern end are top spots. Here, the Milky Way shines brightly across the sky.

• Bring a sturdy tripod for clear, long-exposure shots of the night sky.
• Use a wide-angle lens to show the vastness of the stargazing experience.
• Try different camera settings, like longer shutter speeds and higher ISO, for dramatic night photography images.
• Take advantage of the park’s Dark Sky designation and minimal light pollution to capture the Milky Way and other celestial wonders.

The summer months are the best for stargazing and night photography at Goblin Valley. The Milky Way is especially visible then. Join a ranger-led program, like a full-moon hike or star party, for a deep and educational experience under the stars.

Goblin Valley State Park has many camping and accommodation choices. The campground has 25 sites that can be booked up to four months in advance. There are also two cozy yurts for a more comfortable stay.

For those who love dispersed camping, the park’s surroundings offer great spots. You can camp in designated areas, but remember to follow the rules and leave no trace.

If you prefer indoor stays, Hanksville is about 30-45 minutes away. It has the Whispering Sands Motel. Green River, 45 minutes away, also has hotels and lodging.

It’s key to plan ahead, especially when the park is busy. Book your campsite or yurt early to secure your spot.

Planning your visit and booking early can make your stay at Goblin Valley State Park better.

Goblin Valley State Park is a paradise for outdoor lovers. It has over 7 miles of mountain biking trails on the Wild Horse Trail System. This lets you speed through the park’s unique landscape. The San Rafael Swell area nearby also has off-highway vehicle riding and hiking trails for more adventure.

The Wild Horse Trail System in Goblin Valley State Park is a hit with bikers. These 7 miles of trails take you through the park’s magical formations. It’s a fun ride for all, from experts to beginners, with trails for every skill level.

The sandstone formations in Goblin Valley and the San Rafael Swell are perfect for climbing and canyoneering. Guided tours offer rappelling adventures into Goblin’s Lair. This gives you a thrilling view of the park’s geology. Nearby slot canyons, like Little Wild Horse Canyon, offer technical hikes and canyoneering for more daring explorers.