The Goblin Valley State Park Visitor Center offers free public Wi-Fi and is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, though hours may vary by season.
Entrance fees are typically around $15 per vehicle for day use. Parking is available on-site, with no additional fees required.
Depart from Salt Lake City, taking I-15 South for approximately 90 miles. Transition onto US-6 East, then merge onto I-70 East, and finally take Exit 149 to reach your destination, where stunning rock formations and breathtaking landscapes await.
Goblin Valley State Park offers designated RV and motorcycle parking, ensuring ample space for larger vehicles. Accessible parking and bike racks for cyclists enhance convenience for all visitors.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Full
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Discover otherworldly rock formations and breathtaking landscapes in Utah's hidden gem.
Goblin Valley State Park in Utah captivates with its otherworldly landscape, where whimsical rock formations rise like ancient sculptures against a backdrop of vast blue skies. This hidden gem, often overlooked by travelers, offers a unique opportunity to explore a surreal environment shaped by millennia of erosion. As the sun casts its golden light over the valley, the hoodoos and goblins—some towering as high as 30 feet—transform into a vibrant palette of reds and oranges, inviting photographers and nature enthusiasts alike to capture its beauty.
Adventurers can traverse the park’s expansive trails, discovering hidden nooks and crannies among the formations. The gentle breeze carries the scent of sagebrush, enhancing the sense of serenity that envelops visitors. For those seeking a more immersive experience, guided tours provide insight into the geological history and cultural significance of this enchanting landscape.
As day turns to dusk, the park reveals another facet of its charm. Stargazers marvel at the clear night sky, where constellations shimmer like diamonds. Goblin Valley State Park is not just a destination; it is a sanctuary for those yearning for a connection to nature’s artistry.
Top 3 Facts about Goblin Valley State Park
In this unique location, visitors may witness rare animal migrations, including the stunning flight of the American avocet and the elusive sighting of the endangered desert tortoise, showcasing the remarkable biodiversity and the intricate ecological relationships that thrive in this arid landscape.
This unique desert landscape experiences sudden temperature shifts, with daytime highs soaring above 100°F and nighttime lows plummeting to near freezing, creating a microclimate that supports diverse flora and fauna, while its unusual rock formations can amplify wind patterns, leading to fascinating storm-related phenomena.
Home to the first-ever sanctioned goblin-themed obstacle course race, this unique destination features bizarre trail names like “Goblin’s Playground” and unusual rules that ban climbing on the fragile rock formations, ensuring that visitors enjoy the surreal landscape while preserving its natural beauty.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Ranger-led Tours
- Self-guided Tours
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Living History & Cultural Demos
- Scavenger Hunts
- Night Sky & Astronomy
- Family Camping & Overnight
- Volunteer & Stewardship
- Youth Conservation
- Scouting Partnerships
- Virtual Junior Activities
- Arts & Crafts
- Water-based Adventures
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
When visiting this stunning desert landscape, planning ahead is essential. Check weather conditions and park hours, and consider arriving early to avoid crowds and fully enjoy the unique rock formations. Bring plenty of water, snacks, and sun protection, as amenities are limited. A well-planned trip can transform your adventure into a memorable exploration of this natural wonder.
Pack Appropriately
When preparing for your adventure in this unique desert landscape, pack a lightweight, portable chair. The rocky terrain can be tough on your feet, and having a seat allows you to comfortably soak in the stunning views and vibrant sunsets without straining your legs. Don’t forget a wide-brimmed hat and plenty of water to stay hydrated under the intense sun.
Respect Wildlife
When exploring this stunning desert landscape, always maintain a respectful distance from wildlife. Observe animals like desert cottontails and various bird species without disturbing their natural behavior. Avoid feeding them, as human food can harm their health and disrupt their foraging instincts. Remember to leave no trace and keep the environment pristine for future visitors and the native inhabitants.
Stay Informed
Before your visit, stay informed by checking the weather, temperatures, and any fire bans or notices. Always share your plans with someone, including your destination and expected return time, and make sure you have emergency contact information on hand. Being prepared ensures a safer and more enjoyable experience in the great outdoors.
Seasons
Spring’s mild temperatures and blooming wildflowers transform the desert into a vibrant playground, inviting exploration of its unique rock formations and offering ideal conditions for hiking and photography.
Summer’s scorching heat and monsoon rains deter crowds, offering a serene escape to explore unique rock formations and stargaze under some of the darkest skies in the U.S.
In autumn, the park’s hoodoos glow under golden light, offering comfortable temperatures and clear skies ideal for hiking, photography, and stargazing.
Visiting Goblin Valley State Park in winter offers solitude among unique sandstone formations and clear, dark skies ideal for stargazing, with December through February providing crisp temperatures and fewer crowds.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Goblin Valley State Park has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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The park’s operating hours are from 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily, allowing visitors ample time to explore the unique rock formations and landscapes.
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Camping is available at Goblin Valley with a designated campground that offers 21 sites, each equipped with picnic tables and fire rings. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak seasons.
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Pets are allowed in Goblin Valley State Park but must be leashed at all times. However, pets are not permitted on trails or in the backcountry areas.
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Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities including hiking, photography, picnicking, and stargazing. The park also offers opportunities for rock climbing and exploring the iconic goblin-shaped rock formations.
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To get to Goblin Valley, take Highway 24 east from Hanksville, then turn onto Goblin Valley Road. The park entrance is well-marked, approximately 12 miles from the highway.