The best walks and hikes in Goblin Valley State Park
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Hikes in Goblin Valley State Park navigate a unique landscape defined by thousands of mushroom-shaped sandstone formations known as "goblins." The park's terrain is characterized by its open, desert environment, allowing for exploration within a valley filled with these distinctive geological features. The established routes wind through canyons and across benches, offering different perspectives of the Entrada Sandstone formations.
Best hiking trails in Goblin Valley State Park
- The most popular hiking route is Valley of Goblins loop — Goblin Valley State Park, a 1.2 mile (2.0 km) trail that takes about 30 minutes to complete. This easy route allows for close-up exploration of the main valley's dense collection of hoodoo formations.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is Goblin Valley State Park – Carmel Canyon Trail loop from The Three Sisters, an easy 2.8 mile (4.6 km) path. The trail passes one of the park's most recognized formations and winds through a scenic canyon.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Curtis Bench Trail viewpoint loop from Group Site, a 2.1 mile (3.4 km) trail leading through the high desert landscape, often completed in about 55 minutes.
- Hiking in Goblin Valley State Park is defined by its otherworldly sandstone hoodoos, open desert valleys, and dry canyon floors. The trail network provides a range of easy and moderate options suitable for most ability levels.
- The routes in Goblin Valley State Park are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.8 stars from more than 40 reviews. More than 390 hikers have used komoot to explore Goblin Valley State Park's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 8, 2026
29.3km
07:47
290m
310m
Hike the difficult 18.2-mile Dark Side of the Moon Loop in Goblin Valley State Park, featuring otherworldly rock formations and panoramic vi
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1.96km
00:31
20m
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Hike the easy 1.2-mile Carmel Canyon Loop Trail in Goblin Valley State Park, featuring unique goblin formations and canyon narrows.
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5.0
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6
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4.50km
01:13
60m
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Wander through an otherworldly landscape on the Goblin Valley State Park loop from Group Site, where thousands of mushroom-shaped sandstone formations, known as hoodoos or "goblins," create a surreal, alien environment. This easy 2.8-mile (4.5 km) hiking route involves a gentle 194 feet (59 metres) of elevation gain, taking approximately 1 hour and 12 minutes to complete. You'll navigate intricate drainage systems and open desert, with opportunities to explore among the unique rock figures that make this park famous.
Starting directly from the group campsite, this loop offers convenient access for overnight visitors and those seeking Goblin Valley State Park trails from Group Site. The park encourages free-roaming exploration among the formations, allowing you to choose your own adventure. Always carry ample water, especially during warmer months, as the desert climate can be unforgiving. Checking the park's official website for any seasonal advisories or specific access details before your visit is a smart move.
This trail is a fantastic way to experience the park's most notable feature: the sheer density of its unique rock formations, which have even served as a filming location for movies. You'll get panoramic views of the "Valley of Goblins" and distant mountains, immersing you in a landscape unlike any other. It's a family-friendly option that provides a high-reward experience for minimal effort, making it one of the most popular hikes in Goblin Valley State Park for all ages.
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5
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Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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3.36km
00:54
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Going all the way to the top here is rewarded with a beautiful view of the state park. Take your time to notice the different colors of the layers and the variety of cool geological formations.
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Trails are impossible to find since there are no markers
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The "goblins" are sandstone hoodoos, which are mushroom-shaped rock pinnacles formed by erosion. There are thousands of these goblins making it a surreal Mars-like landscape.
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Goblin Valley 1: If you look southwest from the parking lot, you can see the largest area, Valley 1, directly below the higher parking lot. The Goblin Valley extends over 3 valleys or rather areas that are not really easy to distinguish or recognize geographically. Each valley is different from the others and each is worth visiting. If you have reached one of the valleys, you will find, if you are lucky, at least one sign of the same and you will know which of the 3 "valleys" you have reached :-) However, it is precisely the beauty of the Goblin Valley that you can explore the area without any restrictions and fixed routes and it is not really important in which area you are currently exploring. Here you can let your imagination wander everywhere to admire the respective natural works of art and recognize animals, gnomes, goblins or other objects in them.
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Excursion for the whole family, plenty of space to let off steam
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The state parks are not as spectacular as the National Parks, but always worth a visit. The peculiarity here is that there are no fixed routes. You can move freely and experience the rock formations more intense. At night it is especially dark, because the next artificial light sources are miles away. This results in a particularly good view of the starry sky. But we did not wait because our schedule did not allow it.
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There are no roads in the Goblin Valley. You can walk between the hoodoos at will. I felt like in Schlumpfhausen .. Ideal for hide and seek. You lose sight of yourself so fast. The output is always visible, so that bleeding is impossible. The park has opened at the end of October until 22 o'clock. Since the next artificial light is 10 miles away, the night sky should be especially beautiful. But we did not wait.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are dogs allowed on the trails in Goblin Valley State Park?
Yes, dogs are permitted in Goblin Valley State Park, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. This includes all trails and the main valley areas. Please be sure to bring enough water for your pet, as the desert environment can be very dehydrating.
What are some good family-friendly hikes in the park?
The park is very family-friendly. The main valley itself allows for free-roaming exploration among the 'goblins,' which is great for kids. For a more structured walk, the Valley of Goblins loop is an easy 1.2-mile (2 km) path that lets you see the formations up close without much difficulty.
How much time should I plan for hiking in Goblin Valley?
You can get a good feel for the park in just a few hours. Exploring the main Valley of the Goblins can take one to two hours. If you want to hike a specific trail like the Carmel Canyon Trail, plan for an additional hour or two. A half-day is sufficient for most visitors to see the highlights.
What is the best time of year to visit Goblin Valley for hiking?
The best times to hike in Goblin Valley are during the spring (April-May) and fall (September-October). During these seasons, the temperatures are moderate and pleasant for hiking. Summer can be extremely hot, with temperatures often exceeding 100°F (38°C), making strenuous activity difficult and risky. Winter is colder but can also be a good time to visit if you are prepared for chilly conditions.
Are there any difficult or adventurous hikes in the park?
Yes, the hike to the Goblin's Lair (also known as the Chamber of the Basilisk) is considered strenuous. It's a 1.5-mile out-and-back trail leading to a large cavern. For the most adventurous, a permit is required to rappel into the chamber from above. This offers a unique canyoneering experience within the park.
What should I pack for a day of hiking in Goblin Valley?
It's essential to be prepared for the desert environment. Key items to pack include: at least one gallon (4 liters) of water per person, sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sturdy hiking shoes. The terrain is uneven and sandy. Also, pack snacks, as there are no food services inside the park.
Can I hike at night to see the stars?
Absolutely. Goblin Valley is a certified International Dark Sky Park, making it a spectacular location for stargazing and astrophotography. You can walk through the valleys at night, but be sure to bring a headlamp or flashlight with a red-light setting to preserve your night vision. The sight of the Milky Way over the goblin formations is unforgettable.
Are there any slot canyons to hike in or near the park?
While the main park trails focus on the open valleys and hoodoos, the nearby San Rafael Swell contains some of the region's most famous slot canyons. Little Wild Horse Canyon and Bell Canyon, located just a short drive from the park entrance, offer a classic and accessible slot canyon hiking experience. These are separate from the park's official trail system.
What are the park's hours and entrance fees?
The park is generally open year-round, but hours for the visitor center can vary by season. There is a day-use entrance fee per vehicle. For the most current information on fees, hours, and any potential alerts, it is best to check the official Utah State Parks website before your visit.
What do other hikers think of the trails in Goblin Valley?
The trails and scenery in Goblin Valley are highly regarded by the komoot community, earning an average rating of 4.8 stars. Hikers frequently praise the unique, otherworldly landscape and the freedom to explore off-trail among the goblin formations, which provides a strong sense of adventure.
Is there a trail that offers a good overview of the whole valley?
Yes, the Curtis Bench Trail is an excellent choice for panoramic views. This relatively easy 2.1-mile (3.4 km) trail runs along a higher elevation, providing a sweeping perspective of the Valley of the Goblins with the Henry Mountains in the distance.
Are there other activities besides hiking in the park?
Yes, Goblin Valley offers more than just hiking. The park has a 25-hole disc golf course that winds through the goblins, offering a unique playing experience. There are also seven miles of single-track trails for mountain biking known as the Wild Horse Trail System.
Most popular routes in Goblin Valley State Park
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