Goblin Valley
State Park
Goblin Valley State Park is a geological wonderland located 15 minutes north of Hanksville. The park is famous for its strange and colorful goblins, hoodoos, and other rock formations. Visitors can explore the park's many trails or simply wander among the rocks to discover the hidden wonders of Goblin Valley.
Things to do in Goblin Valley
Goblin Valley State Park is a great place to hike, picnics, stargaze, and enjoy the unique landscape.
Hiking
There are three well-defined walking trails in Goblin Valley State Park, which can be easily explored in an hour or two. Follow these pathways through the Valley of Goblins and to several viewing locations throughout the park. Hiking off the beaten path and looking at the hoodoos up close is one of the most enjoyable ways to hike Goblin Valley. Visitors are permitted to walk around freely, but extreme caution is advised to preserve the hoodoo formations that have been carved over millions of years. It is a felony to vandalize "goblins" in Goblin Valley State Park. However, you are welcome to get as near as you want!
Camping
Overnight visitors to Goblin Valley can choose to stay at a campsite, in a yurt, or with their own RV. Reservations can be made through www.reserveamerica.com. Park amenities include showers and flushing toilets, as well as a free station for water and dumping.
Main Campground: campers may select from one of the park's 25 camping locations in the main campground. The standard camping fee at the park is $35 per night, with the additional $20 entrance fee. Each additional automobile is charged $20 per night. Each campsite includes a small shelter, fire-ring and picnic table.
Yurts: check out the two yurts available for rent if you're searching for a more comfortable stay than camping in a tent, but wish to enjoy the same outdoor experience as visitors who camp. These small, furnished dwellings include a table with chairs, deck chairs and a single/double bunk bed. The yurt provides a barbecue and propane, which are both included in the rental fee. The Goblin Valley yurts are available for $150 per night, plus tax.
RV Sites: for those traveling by RV, the sites at Goblin Valley accommodate RVs up to 59 feet. There are no hookups, but a sewage disposal station is available.
Canyoneering
For the more daring visitors, Goblin Valley also has some fantastic canyoneering opportunities. On the eastern side of the Park is a cave-like slot canyon called Goblin's Lair that extends 70 feet deep into a sandstone cavern. People who have canyon trekking experience may rappel down the fissure and then return via the east slope. Permits are required for each individual who is descending into Goblin's Lair. When entering Goblin Valley State Park, print the permit and fill it out before presenting it to a park ranger. Groups of up to eight people may enter the park together.
Mountain Biking
The Wild Horse Mesa Mountain Bike Trail system is a network of loops that transports riders to various gorgeous vistas within the park. The Wild Horse trails are thrilling, and they're a fantastic way to get to know more about Goblin Valley's hidden gems.
Disc Golf
The main campground offers an 18-hole disc golf course that is free to play, but you do have to pay the park entry fee. Bring your own discs, or rent them from the visitors center for $1.00 each. This unusual site makes you feel as if you're playing disc golf on Mars!
Stargazing
The sky above Goblin Valley State Park is one of the darkest on Earth, with virtually no light pollution! Due to the region's particularly low levels of light pollution, visitors may look up and view spectacular views of the Milky Way's stars. It's difficult to really appreciate what a completely clear view of the night sky looks like until you've seen it for yourself. The park rangers of Goblin Valley will lead nighttime activities at various times throughout the year.
History of the park
Goblin Valley State Park is a state park of Utah, USA, featuring a collection of sandstone goblin-like formations. The park was created in 1964 when the land was donated by the United States Department of the Interior. It was named for its eerie, goblin-like shapes (hoodoos) that are the result of differential weathering on the Entrada Sandstone.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Goblin Valley?
Goblin Valley State Park is a state park of Utah, USA, featuring a landscape of sandstone goblins. The park contains over 9,915 acres (40.12 km2) of goblins and other rock formations.
What is the best time to visit Goblin Valley?
The best time to visit Goblin Valley is in the spring or fall when the temperatures are cooler. The summer temperatures can reach over 100 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius) and can be too hot for some people to enjoy hiking and exploring the park.
What are the hours of operation for Goblin Valley State Park?
6 a.m. - 10 p.m. Every Day
Are there any fees associated with visiting Goblin Valley State Park?
Day-use fees (valid for two days):
$10 private vehicle
$10 motorcycle, bicycle, or pedestrian
$5 per-person commercial vehicle fee
Camping fees:
Main Campground (no electrical hookups): $35 ($20 extra vehicle fee)
Yurts: $150 + tax
Group Overnight Camping:
Group Campground: $200 + tax for up to 40 persons.
Are there any facilities or services available at Goblin Valley State Park?
Park amenities include showers and flushing toilets, as well as a free station for water and dumping.
Are there any safety concerns I should be aware of when visiting Goblin Valley State Park?
Goblin Valley is a remote area and precautions should be taken to ensure you're safe and enjoyable vacation. Be sure to bring plenty of water and food, as well as a map and compass. Let someone know where you're going and when you expect to return. Because of the remote location, emergency services to this area are slow.