Easy hikes and walks in Goblin Valley State Park
4.8
(59)
540
hikers
15
hikes
Easy hiking trails in Goblin Valley State Park navigate a unique "Martian-like" landscape characterized by thousands of mushroom-shaped sandstone hoodoos, locally known as "goblins." The park's geology primarily consists of Entrada sandstone, which has eroded into these distinctive formations. Hikers can explore open desert environments and dry canyon floors, with opportunities for free-roaming exploration in designated areas. The terrain offers varied perspectives of the sculpted landscape.
Best easy hiking trails in Goblin Valley State Park
- The most popular easy hiking…
Last updated: June 25, 2026
5.0
(3)
13
hikers
1.96km
00:31
20m
20m
Hike the easy 1.2-mile Carmel Canyon Loop Trail in Goblin Valley State Park, featuring unique goblin formations and canyon narrows.
5.0
(1)
6
hikers
4.50km
01:13
60m
60m
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…
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5.0
(1)
5
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
10
hikers
3.36km
00:54
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.89km
01:03
20m
100m
Hike the easy 2.4-mile Crack Canyon Trail through a scenic slot canyon with sculpted sandstone walls in the San Rafael Swell.
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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
How many easy hiking trails are available in Goblin Valley State Park?
Goblin Valley State Park offers 6 easy hiking trails, perfect for exploring its unique landscape. In total, the park features 12 routes across various difficulty levels.
What makes Goblin Valley State Park unique for easy hiking?
The park is renowned for its surreal, 'Martian-like' landscape, dominated by thousands of mushroom-shaped sandstone formations known as 'goblins.' Easy trails allow you to wander freely among these natural sculptures, offering an otherworldly hiking experience unlike any other.
Are the easy trails in Goblin Valley State Park suitable for families with children?
Yes, many of the easy trails are ideal for families. The unique 'goblin' formations provide an engaging environment for children to explore. The Valley of Goblins loop, for instance, is a short and accessible route where kids can enjoy discovering the formations up close.
Are dogs allowed on the easy hiking trails in Goblin Valley State Park?
Yes, dogs are permitted on trails in Goblin Valley State Park, provided they are kept on a leash. This allows you to enjoy the unique scenery with your furry companion.
What are some notable landmarks or viewpoints to see on easy hikes?
While exploring the easy trails, you'll encounter numerous 'goblin' formations. The Carmel Canyon Trail loop offers views of the Carmel goblin formation, Molly's Castle outcrop, and the iconic Three Sisters. The Curtis Bench Trail viewpoint loop provides sweeping panoramic vistas of the hoodoos and distant Henry Mountains.
Are there any easy loop trails in Goblin Valley State Park?
Yes, several easy loop trails allow you to experience the park's diverse scenery. Popular options include the Valley of Goblins loop, which takes you directly into the heart of the goblin formations, and the Goblin Valley State Park loop from Fremont, offering a comprehensive overview of the landscape.
What is the best time of year to visit Goblin Valley State Park for easy hikes?
Spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant weather for hiking in Goblin Valley State Park, with milder temperatures. Summers can be very hot, making early mornings or late afternoons preferable, while winters can bring cold temperatures, though snow is less common.
What should I pack for an easy hike in Goblin Valley State Park?
Even on easy trails, it's essential to bring plenty of water, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), sturdy closed-toe shoes, and snacks. The desert environment can be dry, and shade is limited. A camera is also recommended to capture the unique landscape.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Goblin Valley State Park?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars from over 40 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the park's unique, otherworldly scenery, the freedom to explore off-trail in designated areas, and the accessibility of its easy trails for all ages.
Are permits required for easy hikes in Goblin Valley State Park?
Generally, permits are not required for standard easy day hikes in the main goblin valleys. However, specific trails like the Goblin's Lair, which involves entering a cavern, may require a backcountry permit. Always check the official park website for the most current regulations: Utah State Parks.
Are there less crowded easy trails in Goblin Valley State Park?
The main Valley of Goblins can be popular. For a quieter experience, consider exploring the Third Valley, which is the furthest and often provides a more secluded atmosphere. The Carmel Canyon Trail can also offer a more serene hike, especially during off-peak hours.
What kind of terrain can I expect on easy hikes in Goblin Valley State Park?
Easy hikes in Goblin Valley State Park primarily traverse open desert environments and dry canyon floors. The terrain is generally sandy and rocky, with gentle slopes. You'll be walking among and around the distinctive sandstone hoodoos, which are the park's defining feature.
Most popular routes in Goblin Valley State Park
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