Goblin Valley State Park

This is a place that you can let your imagination take off! These knobby sandstone “goblins” are as far as the eye can see! They are irresistible for kids and adults who love to climb and explore and let their imagination come to life in a place that makes you feel like you’re really on Mars.

Description

Our favorite thing about this park is that it’s free-roaming – no trails. You can go and explore and play all day. It’s huge so even though the parking lot might seem busy, once everyone gets spread out and you head out past the main area then you have the whole place to yourself. There are a lot of fun destinations for families in the world, but how often do you get to take your kids to a place that feels like another planet?

AMENITIES:

Camping, picnic tables, primitive bathrooms, small gift shop and visitor center. Junior Ranger program.

LENGTH:

2+hours

The Valley of Goblins, the most well known attraction, spans nearly 3 square miles that can be explored at your leisure. Beyond that area the park also offers 6 miles of hiking trails as well! We haven’t explored those yet, but would love to one day.

TRAIL DETAILS:

There is a parking and picnic area above Goblin Valley with great views. Parking can fill quickly on busy weekends and school breaks, so arrive early or late in the day to avoid problems. Once you are parked, Goblin Valley is large enough to accommodate everyone.

The picnic area is a covered pavilion with tables. The only bathrooms in the day use area are nearby. Once you walk down into the valley, there will be no bathrooms or trash cans.

Walk down the short gravel path from the picnic area into the hoodoos and unleash your imagination from there!

WEATHER

As you can see, the weather is hot in the summer, and there isn’t a lot of shade unless you hide under the hoodoos. If you would like to venture farther out away from the crowds the sprint and fall is the best time to go, however, the park is open all year round.

COST

Day- use Fees: $15 per vehicle (up to 8 people) Check the official website for updated fee information.

LOCATION

Goblin Valley State Park is located on Highway 24 in southeastern Utah, not too far from Arches, Canyonlands and Capitol Reef National Parks.

DIRECTIONS

24 miles south of I-70 on Highway 24, turn at Temple Mountain junction, follow signs 12 miles to park.
20 miles north of the town of Hanksville on Highway 24, turn at Temple Mountain junction, follow signs 12 miles to park.

GPS COORDINATES

38.5737° N, 110.7071° W

WHAT WE NEEDED

Pack plenty of drinking water, snacks, and a picnic. Check the forecast and dress for the weather. Wear sturdy shoes with some traction. Don’t forget the sunscreen!