Goblin Valley State Park is a natural playground for hikers, climbers, and adventurers. In this guide, you'll learn about the terrain and the available activities, as well as precautions you should take when visiting. By following these tips, you'll have a great time exploring the park!

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Goblin Valley State Park: A Natural Playground for Hikers, Climbers, and Adventures

Goblin Valley State Park in Utah is a desert landscape full of surreal and mysterious rock formations, with Entrada sandstone rocks that are either red and stumpy, goblin-shaped or massive and awe-inspiring natural monuments. With a variety of trails to explore on foot and opportunities for nighttime photography, this underrated corner of Utah is a must-see destination.

What Is Goblin Valley State Park?

Goblin Valley State Park is a remote but very popular campground located in the heart of Utah’s red rock country. It is known for its strange and otherworldly rock formations, which have been sculpted by wind and water over millions of years. These rocks, called goblins, are squat hoodoos resembling goblins and give the park its name.

Goblin Valley is a natural playground for hikers, climbers, and adventurers. It provides a dramatic and photogenic backdrop for exploring, featuring a variety of activities such as hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, and disc golf.

The park also has a number of shorter trails for hiking, including the Panorama Point trail. It’s even an International Dark Sky Park, so stargazers will be delighted.

The surreal landscape and unique rock formations provide a one-of-a kind experience for visitors. Goblin Valley is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts looking for an adventure.

What to Do in Goblin Valley State Park

Choose a spot

When visiting Goblin Valley State Park, there are various options for choosing a spot to explore.

Valley 1 is closest to the parking lot and can be reached by walking down from the parking lot. It is the most easily accessible, with an infinite number of rock formations to explore.
Valley 2 can be reached either by walking south from the observation point or via the Goblin’s Lair trail, which requires a permit, and is extremely complicated, especially in the final part.
Valley 3 is the farthest, only reachable by walking south from the observation point.

All three areas have a picnic area, vault toilets and a water pump. For those wanting a more adventurous experience, there is a canyoning tour that allows guided rappelling down narrow fissures. Nighttime photography is also popular in the park, with the red rock sandstone formations contrasting starkly against the night sky.

Make it Happen

Goblin Valley State Park offers a variety of activities for all ages. Visitors can explore the unique sandstone formations, observe wildlife, and take in the beautiful views from the overlook.

Nighttime photography is also popular in the park; the outlines of the ‘goblins’ create a foreground to the nighty star show.
Other activities available in the park include picnicking at the shaded picnic tables, camping in designated spots with metal fire rings and shade shelters, hiking, biking, fishing, and boating in the nearby lakes, and taking part in interpretive and educational programs.
The park also features vault toilets, showers, flush toilets, drinking water, and a dump station.
Visitors should follow the park’s guidelines and practice leaving no trace, and be considerate of other visitors. Make sure to plan ahead and prepare for your trip, and travel and camp on durable surfaces, as well as dispose of waste properly.

Leave No Trace: Dispersed Camping Outdoor Ethics – How and Why

Spend the day exploring

Goblin Valley State Park has a lot of exciting activities to offer. To get the most out of your visit, here are a few things you could do:

Explore the three valleys
Take photos
Hike one of the trails
Rappel into Goblin’s Lair
Hike the Curtis Bench Trail or Entrada Canyon
Bike, camp, climb, or picnic in the park
Take a canyoning tour

Get an All-Terrain Pass

Visiting Goblin Valley State Park can be an amazing experience, but it’s important to get an all-terrain pass before you go. This pass gives you access to many of the park’s features, including biking, camping, climbing, and hiking trails. Additionally, an all-terrain pass gives you access to the overlook to Goblin Valley, where you can take in the stunning views of the valley.

It also provides access to the Wild Horse Trail System, where you can explore seven miles of interconnecting beginner to intermediate looping single track mountain bike trails.

Finally, an all-terrain pass is necessary to rappel into Goblin’s Lair, which requires both a backcountry permit and technical gear and canyoneering skills. With an all-terrain pass, you can enjoy a safe and fun experience while exploring Goblin Valley State Park.

Camping in Goblin Valley State Park

Goblin Valley State Park offers a variety of camping opportunities. There are ten walk-in tent pads, fourteen dry camping RV spaces, and one group site able to accommodate up to 40 people. Additionally, the park offers two yurt’s modeled after traditional nomadic tent dwellings of Central Asia that are furnished with a single bed bunked on top of a double bed, as well as a futon couch, table with four chairs, and reclining deck chairs.

Goblin Valley State Park Fees

Day-use fees (valid until 10pm day after purchase)

$20 private vehicle

$25 weekend and holiday rate (Fri-Sun in April, May, September, October)

$10 motorcycle, bicycle, or pedestrian

$5 per-person commercial vehicle fee

Camping fees:

Main Campground (no electrical hookups): $45 ($20 extra vehicle fee)

Yurts: $150 + tax. A maximum of two pets (dogs only) may stay in a yurt for an extra fee of $20 each.

Dump & water station fees for non-registered campers: $15 (not covered by the annual pass)

Group Overnight Camping:

Group Campground: $200 + tax for up to 40 persons.

>>>Please check for the current park and camping fees.

Enjoy your time in Goblin Valley State Park

Visitors to Goblin Valley State Park can experience a variety of activities in an otherworldly setting. For a half-day trip, explore the Valley of Goblins, a landscape of strange and colorful sandstone rock formations. Go off-trail, get up close to the hoodoo structures, and enjoy the view. When you’re done, have lunch at the covered picnic area. For a full-day trip, spend the morning in the Valley of Goblins and add in a canyoneering trip to Goblin’s Lair. After lunch, go hiking or try your hand at disc golf. End the day with a night of camping in the park or nearby on BLM land. No matter how long your trip, Goblin Valley State Park is sure to provide a unique and memorable experience.

Familiarize yourself with the terrain

To familiarize yourself with Goblin Valley State Park’s terrain, you should begin by studying the map provided in the useful brochure, which divides the valley into three distinct zones: Valley 1, Valley 2 and Valley 3.

After parking your car at the designated lot, you should start your exploration of the valley by walking down from the parking lot and exploring Valley 1, which has an infinite number of rock formations.
To explore Valley 2, you can take the trail called The Goblin’s Lair, which requires a permit and is quite complicated.
Valley 3 can be reached by taking the trail that connects with the Goblin’s Lair, but it is suggested to first study the map for the most direct route.
In addition to exploring the valley, you can also take a canyoning tour that allows guided rappelling down narrow fissures. It is important to also remember to travel and camp on durable surfaces, and to dispose of waste properly.

Pack accordingly

If you plan to visit Goblin Valley State Park, you should be sure to pack essential outdoor gear such as comfortable and supportive hiking shoes, moisture-wicking socks, a long-sleeved shirt, hiking pants, a backpack with a built-in water bladder, a sun hat and other items.

Additionally, depending on the season, you may want to bring extra layers such as a jacket and gloves for colder months, and plenty of sunscreen and a hat for the warmer months. With these items packed, you’ll be ready for an adventure in Goblin Valley State Park!

Prepare for the weather conditions

When planning a visit to Goblin Valley State Park, it is important to prepare for the weather conditions ahead of time. To make sure your adventure is enjoyable and safe, here are a few things you should bring:

Hiking shoes: For the trails in Goblin Valley, you won’t need a super heavy-duty pair of shoes. Look for shoes that provide good traction and cushioning.
Hiking socks: Look for moisture-wicking socks that have a bit of elastic stretch.
Moisture-wicking shirt: A lightweight long-sleeved shirt is a must for any season in Goblin Valley State Park.
Hiking pants: During the summer months, lightweight active shorts may be more comfortable, but for colder weather you’ll need a good pair of hiking pants.
Water bag and hiking backpack: Make sure to bring enough water to stay hydrated, and a backpack with a built-in water bladder will make rock scrambling easier.
Sun hat: A wide-brimmed sun hat is essential for sun protection, especially in the warmer months.
Sunscreen: Even with a sun hat, it’s important to protect skin from the sun’s harmful rays.
Headlamp: Having a headlamp handy will be a lifesaver for evening adventures.

Safety Tips for Exploring Goblin Valley

Become familiar with the rules and regulations

The rules and regulations for visiting Goblin Valley State Park include: knowing before you go, planning ahead, playing it safe, exploring locally, leaving no trace, building an inclusive outdoors, planning ahead and preparing, disposing of waste properly, leaving what you find, minimizing campfire impacts, respecting wildlife, being considerate of other visitors, adhering to the standards around providing a positive camping experience, being a thoughtful neighbor, and serving as a responsible citizen.

Additionally, visitors must follow the park’s hours, which are 6:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. Admission is $20 and you can purchase your day pass online to save time.

Have fun while exploring the park!

Visiting Goblin Valley State Park is an incredible experience for the whole family! There are a variety of fun activities to enjoy while exploring the stunning rock formations of the park. You can bike, camp, climb, go for hikes, take stunning photos, have a picnic, visit the visitor center, and view the local wildlife. If you plan ahead and prepare for the journey, you can make the most of the experience. Be sure to travel and camp on durable surfaces, dispose of waste properly, leave what you find, minimize campfire impacts, respect wildlife, and be considerate of other visitors.

For the more adventurous, there is a canyoning tour that allows guided rappelling down narrow fissures. And if you want to explore the geology of the park, you can just walk around among the goblins and balanced rocks in the three distinct valleys: Valley 1, Valley 2, and Valley 3.

Note: Valley 2 can also be reached via the trail called The Goblin’s Lair, which requires a permit.

When you arrive, there is a picnic area with a water pump if you need additional water. Be sure to stay in the marked trails and contact the rangers at the visitor center in case of emergency.

Finally, don’t forget to check out the official website of the park for any additional information you may need.

Wear Sunscreen and Sunglasses

It is important to wear sunscreen and sunglasses when exploring Goblin Valley because the desert can be unforgiving when it comes to the sun’eyestraineyestrains powerful rays. Goblin Valley has very little shade and the temperature can easily reach 95° F / 35° C in the summer, making it essential to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays. Sunscreen and sunglasses help protect your skin and eyes from UV damage, sunburns and even more serious conditions, like skin cancer. Furthermore, wearing sunglasses also helps reduce the amount of squinting you do, which can cause eyestrain and headaches. Wearing sunscreen and sunglasses is an essential part of being safe and comfortable while exploring Goblin Valley.

Observe Wildlife Safety

When exploring Goblin Valley, it is important to take precautions to protect oneself from wildlife. Visitors should plan ahead and prepare for their trip by checking the National Weather Service for real-time Red Flag Warnings and Fire Weather Watch Warnings to ensure their safety.

Only dogs are allowed as long as they are on a six-feet leash, however it is advised to refrain from bringing your dog on hikes as the terrain is very rugged. Visitors should remain on marked trails at all times and contact the ranger’s office at the visitor center if they need additional information.

Visitors should be aware of their surroundings and be careful not to stray too far out of the way. It is important to bring plenty of water, protect your food and trash from animals, and be considerate of other visitors. Lastly, it is important to leave the area better than how you found it.

Report Any Safety Hazards

Visitors to Goblin Valley can report any safety hazards by following these steps:

Contact the rangers at the visitor center in case of emergency.
Stay in the marked trails and practice physical distancing.
Follow the National Weather Service fire advisories and Fire Weather Watch Warnings.
Bring plenty of water and other necessary supplies.
Be alert for any vandalism while exploring the area.
Report any safety hazards to the park’s official website.

Only Climb in Approved Areas

When climbing in Goblin Valley’s approved areas, it is important to stay aware of your surroundings and take several safety precautions. Be sure to plan ahead, bring plenty of water, and remain on the marked trails. Additionally, contact rangers at the visitor center in case of an emergency. It is also advisable to wear appropriate clothing, sturdy footwear with good grip, and safety equipment such as a helmet. For those wishing to rappel into Goblin’s Lair, make sure you obtain a permit beforehand as permits are required for all activities in the area. Make sure to practice proper physical distancing and also to consider the weather conditions, as sudden weather changes can pose a risk. Finally, remember to leave no trace, and be sure to respect the rules and regulations of the park, as vandalism has been an issue in the past.

Make Sure to Tell Someone Your Plans

Exploring Goblin Valley can be an exciting adventure, but it’s important to inform someone of your plans beforehand in order to stay safe. Knowing someone else is aware of your whereabouts can be invaluable should an accident occur while hiking, camping, or simply visiting the park.

By providing a friend or family member with your itinerary, you can ensure that someone is able to contact the park rangers and receive help if needed. It’s always a good idea to let a friend or family member know of your intentions for safety reasons, and Goblin Valley is no exception.

FAQ

What is Goblin Valley State Park?

Goblin Valley State Park is a unique and beautiful destination located in the heart of red rock country in Utah. It’s known for its strange and otherworldly rock formations, which have been sculpted by wind and water over millions of years. These rocky outcroppings provide a dramatic and photogenic backdrop, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Visitors can explore the goblins and enjoy a variety of activities, such as hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, disc golf, and stargazing. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including lizards, snakes, and a variety of birds, making it an ideal spot for wildlife watching. Goblin Valley is an excellent place to visit for those seeking a unique and out-of-this-world experience in the heart of Utah’s red rock country.

What activities can you do at Goblin Valley State Park?

At Goblin Valley State Park, visitors can wander off-trail to explore the endless labyrinth of goblins, or they can hike on 5 miles of designated trails.

Hiking is a great way to explore the Valley of Goblins and to various viewing sites throughout the park. Mountain biking, disc golf, stargazing and photography are all popular activities in the park.
The Wild Horse Mountain Biking Trail System offers five loops that provide scenic views of the park.
The 18-hole disc golf course is free to play for visitors and the visitor center will rent discs for $1 each.
Stargazing is excellent in Goblin Valley due to its exceptionally dark night sky. It is also a designated Dark Sky Park, so visitors can get a great view of the star-lit night sky on clear nights.
Visitors can also enjoy wildlife viewing and naturalist programs within the park.
Outside Goblin Valley, visitors can explore slot canyons, discover hidden rock art, and ride miles of OHV trails in the rugged San Rafael Swell.

What is the terrain like at Goblin Valley State Park?

The terrain at Goblin Valley State Park is a strange and colorful landscape filled with bizarre sandstone rock formations called goblins. It is located along the San Rafael Reef, south of Interstate-70, and is covered with soft sandstone that has eroded into interesting shapes. Visitors can wander off-trail to explore the geology and hike among the nooks and gnomes.

There are four established hiking trails which offer unique and spectacular views of the landscape:

Goblin’s Lair, a 70 foot natural sandstone cave on the east side of the park
Carmel Canyon is a 1.5 moderate loop that leads from the parking area
Entrada Canyon is a 1.3 mile one-way trail that starts from the campground to the goblins and back
Curtis Bench is a fairly easy 2.1 mile out-and-back trail with views of the Henry Mountains.

Where is Goblin Valley State Park located?

Goblin Valley State Park is located along the San Rafael Reef in south Utah, just off of Interstate-70. It is about five miles west of the Temple Mountain/Goblin Valley Junction and its coordinates are 38.573932, -110.7136506.

What are the hoodoo formations at Goblin Valley State Park?

Goblin Valley State Park is known for its strange and otherworldly rock formations, which have been sculpted by wind and water over millions of years. These rocky outcroppings, or hoodoos, are scattered throughout the park and provide a dramatic and photogenic backdrop.

Hoodoos are tall, narrow spires which are made up of harder rock that stands on top of a softer, more easily eroded material. The hoodoos at Goblin Valley vary in height and shape, with some standing as tall as 50 feet!

Is there camping available at Goblin Valley State Park?

Yes, there is camping available at Goblin Valley State Park. The campground has 25 sites and two yurts and offers 10 walk-in tent pads, 14 RV spaces and one group site that can accommodate up to 35 people. There are no electrical hookups, but the campground has flush toilets, hot showers and a dump station. Yurts are available to rent and include a table, chairs, and a bunk bed.

Are there any special considerations for visiting Goblin Valley State Park?

Are there any special considerations for visiting Goblin Valley State Park? When planning a visit, it is best to avoid the weekends and holidays during peak season, as the park is relatively small with limited parking and the wait time to enter the park can often stretch over an hour.

Spring and fall are the best times to visit due to clear skies and balmy temperatures during the day, with cooler
temperatures at night. Summer days can be very hot, and winter nights can be quite cold.
Flash floods can be a danger during the monsoon season, so be sure to check the weather before your visit.
Dogs are allowed but must be kept on leash and owners must clean up after their pets.
It is also illegal to alter or remove any of the park’s plants, animals, natural features, or structures.

What facilities and amenities are available at Goblin Valley State Park?

At Goblin Valley State Park, there are 25 campsites and 2 yurts available for rent. The campsites have paved parking pads, shade structures, picnic tables, fire pits, and grates. There are 10 walk-in tent pads, 14 RV spaces, and 1 group space for up to 35 people. Amenities include drinking water, flush toilets, hot showers, and a sewage disposal station. Cell service is not available in the park.

What wildlife can I expect to see at Goblin Valley State Park?

Goblin Valley State Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including lizards, snakes, and a variety of birds. Lizards found in the park include collared lizards, whiptails, and zebra-tailed lizards. Snakes such as the Great Basin Gopher Snake, Common Sagebrush Lizard, and Desert Nightsnake can also be found in the park. Bird-wise, there are numerous species, including Turkey Vultures, Red-tailed Hawks, Mourning Doves, and Say’s Phoebes.

Final Thoughts

Goblin Valley is a unique and captivating destination for adventurers and photographers alike. Its extraordinary landscape provides for a diverse range of activities and opportunities for exploration. From visiting the park by day to marvel at its red rock sandstone formations to capturing the night sky in all its glory with nighttime photography, Goblin Valley is sure to leave an impressionable experience on those who visit.

Happy Trails,