Hoodoos and Wonder: Discovering Goblin Valley State Park

When I first heard about Goblin Valley State Park, I was intrigued by the unusual name and curious about what kind of landscape could inspire such a title. Visiting this park turned out to be an unforgettable experience, filled with strange rock formations and a sense of stepping into another world. If you enjoy unique natural scenery and outdoor adventures, Goblin Valley offers a fascinating escape.

Goblin Valley State Park Sign

What Makes Goblin Valley State Park Unique

Goblin Valley is famous for its thousands of hoodoos - oddly shaped rock formations that resemble goblins or mushrooms. These formations are made of soft sandstone that has eroded over millions of years, creating a landscape unlike any other in the United States. The valley stretches over 3,600 acres and is located in southeastern Utah, near the town of Green River.

The park’s geology is a result of natural forces shaping the Entrada sandstone, which is soft enough to erode into these whimsical shapes but sturdy enough to stand tall. Walking among these formations feels like wandering through a natural sculpture garden, where every turn reveals a new, curious figure.

Some of the "Goblins"

Planning Your Visit

Before heading to Goblin Valley, it’s helpful to know a few practical details to make your trip smooth and enjoyable.

• Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall offer the most comfortable temperatures. Summers can be very hot, with temperatures often exceeding 90°F (32°C), while winters are cold but less crowded.

• Getting There: The park is about a 2.5-hour drive from Salt Lake City and roughly 2 hours from Moab located a short drive from I70 on Utah State Route 24.

• Entrance Fee: The entrance fee is $20 per vehicle, which helps maintain the trails and facilities.

• Facilities: There is a visitor center with maps and information, restrooms, picnic areas, and a campground for those who want to stay overnight.

Views on the way to Goblin's Lair

Exploring the Trails and Formations

Goblin Valley offers several trails that vary in length and difficulty, allowing visitors to explore the goblin-filled landscape at their own pace.

• Goblin’s Lair Trail: This short trail leads to a large cave-like formation where you can climb and explore. It’s a favorite spot for families and photographers.

• Entrada Canyon: A moderate 3-mile out and back trail named for the same layer of sand and siltstone that makes up the Valley of Goblins. Here you can spot a number of interesting goblin formations.

• Toadstool Canyon: Moderate to strenuous, this 2.7 mile loop winds through a canyon and past several rare Curtis formation hoodoos. The trail involves scrambling and crawling through some tight spaces.

  
  

The most common way to see the park is simply to explore the three valleys. From the parking lot, you will descend down the stairs into the first valley. This area is relatively flat and allows you to easily wander around the hoodoos and see these goblins up close. Continue out past the first valley and eventually you'll reach the second valley. While there is a sign for the second valley, it's not always easy to spot. You'll know you've made it though when the hoodoos starts to get a little taller and you find yourself wandering through some canyons. We tried to find the third valley but were unsuccessful. According to the Utah State Parks website, the third valley is more than a mile away from the parking lot. As there are no trails or marking, it is highly suggested to have experience is desert backcountry navigation.

Heading down into the Goblin's Lair

Activities Beyond Hiking

Goblin Valley isn’t just for hiking. There are several other ways to enjoy the park:

• Photography: The unique shapes and the way the light plays on the sandstone make Goblin Valley a photographer’s dream. Early morning and late afternoon provide the best lighting.

• Camping: The park’s campground is simple but well-maintained, offering a chance to experience the valley under the stars. The night sky here is incredibly clear, perfect for stargazing. There are also a couple yurts available to rent if glamping is more your style!

• Picnicking: There are picnic tables scattered throughout the park, ideal for a lunch break overlooking the goblins.

• Off-Roading: Nearby areas offer off-road trails for those with suitable vehicles, but within the park itself, vehicles are restricted to protect the formations.

Justin taking pictures along Goblin's Trail

Tips for a Great Experience

To get the most out of your visit, here are some tips I found useful:

• Bring plenty of water. The desert climate can be dehydrating, especially in warmer months.

• Wear sturdy shoes. The terrain is uneven and sandy, so good footwear helps.

• Use sun protection. Hats, sunscreen, and sunglasses are essential.

• Plan for limited cell service. The park is remote, so don’t rely on your phone for navigation or calls.

Views of the Second Valley

Final Thoughts on Visiting Goblin Valley State Park

Goblin Valley State Park offers a rare chance to explore a landscape that feels almost otherworldly. The unique rock formations, peaceful surroundings, and opportunities for hiking and camping make it a destination worth visiting. Whether you are a nature lover, photographer, or just looking for a unique place to explore, Goblin Valley delivers an experience that stays with you long after you leave.