Goblin Valley State Park: A Complete Guide
A surreal desert playground of sandstone hoodoos
Thousands of mushroom shaped rock formations fill a wide desert basin about two hours from Moab — and unlike most parks, you're free to wander off trail and climb among them. Here's everything you need for the drive out, the hike in, and the stay overnight.
An alien basin between Capitol Reef and the San Rafael Swell
Goblin Valley State Park sits about 100 miles west of Moab, roughly a 1 hour 45 minute drive through open desert on I-70 and Highway 24. The park occupies a basin between Capitol Reef National Park and the San Rafael Swell, tucked off the highway near Green River and Hanksville — remote enough that it rarely feels crowded, even in high season.
Inside the valley, thousands of mushroom shaped sandstone formations called hoodoos, or goblins, were carved out over millions of years by wind and water erosion. Unlike most parks, there are no ropes or boardwalks here. You're invited to wander freely among the formations, which is exactly what makes it one of the best family stops in southeastern Utah.
The park pairs naturally with a Moab road trip loop — many visitors combine it with Capitol Reef National Park or use it as the midpoint stop on a longer swing toward Utah's other state parks near Moab.
Four reasons Goblin Valley earns a spot on your itinerary
Made for kids
The valley floor is flat and open, so young hikers can scramble among the goblins without steep drop offs or exposed ledges to manage.
Photographer's playground
Low sun at dawn or dusk turns the hoodoos a deep red orange against the blue desert sky — one of the most photogenic hours in Utah.
Certified Dark Sky Park
With almost no light pollution for miles, the Milky Way is visible to the naked eye most clear nights.
Slot canyons next door
Little Wild Horse Canyon, a beginner friendly slot canyon loop, sits just outside the park and pairs well with a valley visit.
Best time to visit Goblin Valley
Spring (March through May) and fall (September through early November) bring daytime highs in the 65–85°F range and the most comfortable hiking conditions.
| Season | Conditions | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Spring | Mild, 65–80°F | Wildflowers, occasional wind |
| Summer | Hot, often over 100°F | Visit early morning or evening only |
| Fall | Mild, 60–80°F | Best light for photography |
| Winter | Cold nights, near freezing | Quiet, fewer crowds, dress in layers |
What to bring
Goblin Valley feels like a giant playground, but it's still remote desert terrain. A little preparation goes a long way.
At least one gallon per person, more if hiking
Hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, light layers
Snacks or a packed lunch — no restaurants nearby
Trail runners or hiking shoes with grip
For evening hikes or stargazing
Cell service drops off well before the park
Explore the valley and its trails
The main valley has no fixed paths — most visitors simply wander from the overlook parking lot into the formations. For a more structured route, four marked trails cover the rest of the park.
Carmel Canyon Loop
Views of the Three Sisters formation and Molly's Castle; the standard route into the valley.
Goblin's Lair
Scrambles up scree to a hidden sandstone chamber. A permit is required to rappel inside.
Entrada Canyon Trail
Connects the group campground to the valley overlook parking area.
Wild Horse Window
A quieter out and back trail to a natural rock window, with fewer crowds than the main valley.
Rappel into Goblin's Lair
Goblin's Lair doubles as one of the easiest introductions to canyoneering in the region — a short rappel drops you into a hidden sandstone chamber most day hikers never see. A permit is required to descend, and if you've never rappelled before, going with a guide is the safer call than working out rope systems solo in a remote park.
If canyoneering is the main draw of your trip, browse the Moab canyoneering guide for outfitters that run trips throughout the region, including at Goblin Valley.
Goblin Valley Canyoneering Adventure
A guided rappel into Goblin's Lair with gear and instruction included — no permit paperwork or rope setup to sort out yourself.
Check AvailabilityWhat it costs to visit and stay
Day use passes are valid until 10 p.m. the following day. The park's 24 campsites have no electrical hookups but include picnic tables, fire rings, and access to a dump and water station.
| Type | Fee | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Day use, private vehicle | $20 | Valid until 10 p.m. the next day |
| Motorcycle, bike, or pedestrian | $10 | |
| Standard campsite | $45/night | Includes entry for one vehicle |
| Extra vehicle at campsite | $20/night | Max two vehicles per site |
| Yurt (2 available) | $150/night + tax | Sleeps up to 5, heat and swamp cooler |
| Group campground | $200 + tax | Up to 40 people, 10 vehicles |
Reservations open well in advance and campsites fill fast during spring and fall weekends. Book directly through Utah State Parks reservations.
Directions from Moab
Head north on US-191
From downtown Moab, drive north toward Green River — about 51 miles.
Take I-70 W, then UT-24 S
Continue west on I-70 to the Highway 24 exit, then south toward Hanksville — about 38 miles.
Turn onto Goblin Valley Road
Follow the signed turnoff south for the final 12 miles to the entrance station.
Total drive time: about 1 hour 45 minutes · Nearest services: Green River, Utah
Nearby attractions worth pairing with Goblin Valley
Little Wild Horse Canyon
A beginner friendly slot canyon loop just outside the park — an easy add-on for groups that want more adventure.
Capitol Reef National Park
About 70 miles west, with scenic drives, historic orchards, and cliffside petroglyphs.
San Rafael Swell
A vast desert wilderness of arches, slot canyons, and overlooks between Green River and the park.
Canyonlands 127 Hour Adventure
If you're threading Goblin Valley into a longer Utah loop, extend the trip with a guided journey through Canyonlands National Park.
Check AvailabilityPlanning a bigger state park trip?
Goblin Valley is one stop on a natural three park loop with Dead Horse Point and Green River State Park.
See All Moab State ParksGoblin Valley State Park: frequently asked questions
Is Goblin Valley worth visiting?
Yes. Its otherworldly landscape, easy trails, and free roam valley floor make it one of the most rewarding day trips from Moab, especially for families and photographers.
How far is Goblin Valley from Moab?
About 100 miles, roughly a 1 hour 45 minute drive via US-191, I-70, and UT-24.
Can you camp at Goblin Valley?
Yes. The park has a 24 site campground and two yurts, both bookable through Utah State Parks reservations. Sites fill quickly in spring and fall.
Are dogs allowed?
Yes, on a leash no longer than 6 feet. Clean up after your pet, as with all Utah state parks.
How long should I plan to spend there?
Most visitors spend 3 to 5 hours exploring the valley and a trail or two. Stay for sunset or overnight if you want the dark sky views.
Can I explore the goblins off trail?
Yes — the valley floor is a free roam area. Just avoid climbing on fragile formations or stepping on cryptobiotic soil.
What's the closest town for gas or food?
Green River, about 50 miles northeast of the park, has the nearest gas stations, restaurants, and supplies.
Ready for the Goblins?
Between the hoodoo basin, the slot canyons next door, and a Dark Sky certified night, Goblin Valley earns the extra hour of driving. Pair it with the rest of Moab's state parks for a full desert loop.
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