Explore Goblin Valley State Park, Utah
On your way to Moab or Capitol Reef and have a few hours to spare on your travel day? Want to take a quick trip to Mars?
We were camping overnight in Green River State Park, and wanted to catch the sunset somewhere unique - so we headed 50 miles southwest to Goblin Valley. This unique Utah State Park is truly comparable to Mars. You will find thousands of “goblins” or sandstone structures in the valley, eroded by years of sand and wind, with a beautiful view of the Henry Mountains behind them.
While there, we spent all of our time in the valley, which is three square miles of free roaming capabilities among the goblins. Yep, you read that right. You can explore on your own path. Anywhere.
WHERE DO YOU START?
This park is a 3hr 45min drive from Salt Lake City, and a 1hr 45min drive from Moab. Upon arrival, drive one mile up the road from the Visitor’s Center and you’ll find yourself at a parking lot overlooking the valley. Here is where your journey begins! I’ve created a simple map explaining the locations we hit in case you want to explore them too.
Please Note: The 3 sq. mile valley, and the park as a whole are both much larger than shown on my map.This map is based solely off our experience.
WELCOME TO THE PARK
You are immediately greeted with an incredible view of the Henry mountains and a view of the valley. This is a great location to take some photos (especially of the mountains glowing at sunset), and a spot to start planning your unique route. From here, you can go anywhere (seriously).
GET IN THERE
Alright, did you figure out where you want to go? If not, just start walking. You'll find yourself captivated by the goblins as you walk between them. No two are the same, and each turn will open to a new stunning view.
This was my favorite part of exploring - climbing on top of the cliffs, looking down into the different valleys, and realizing how tiny you are. We found ourselves stopping to admire a spot, then moving on (assuming it wouldn’t get any better than that) and entering a new beautiful area away from the world we knew.
We arrived on a Friday night around 6PM. The parking lot was maybe a quarter full (this was also during May of the pandemic - but they did a great job keeping things clean). I know our circumstances were different, but I promise if you explore deep enough into the goblins, you will find a spot (or goblin cave) to yourself.
Even though this only talks about spending a few hours in the park, you can without a doubt entertain yourself here for days.
END WITH A VIEW
On your way out of the maze of goblins, walk to the far north side of the valley, in between two larger mountains/structures for a stunning view of Carmel Canyon from above. Along your walk you’ll find a bit more sand dunes and vast landscapes.
ON TO THE NEXT
Enjoy the sunset and landscapes on your drive home! Oh, and don't forget that a good wolf-howl at the top of your lungs is necessary on the way out to achieve full enjoyment.
