Goblin Valley Utah
Email This Post
Print This Post
Just one look at the fantastically wind and water sculpted shapes of Goblin Valley in south central Utah explains how it got it’s name, but as you approach, you only see the rocks sticking up above the landscape and not the very weird valley hidden below them. In fact, it’s so well hidden that it wasn’t discovered until 3 cowboys stumbled upon it while looking for their cattle.
You’ll find Goblin Valley State Park 6-7 miles west of the road between Green River and Hanksville, Utah, 30 miles south of I-70 Exit 149 on the way to Lake Powell. Just look for the signs. There’s a small,
but nice improved campground, with drinking water and modern rest rooms with hot showers. The best sites are hidden in coves among the rocks. The road leading to the park is paved, so it’s no trouble getting there.
There’s a visitor’s center, 3 marked trails and free Ranger-led interpretive programs, but the true thrill is being able to wander through the rock formations at will, exploring the maze of thousands of grotesque sandstone creatures and climbing over, around and even through them. Because it’s literally in the middle of nowhere, you’ll see skies crowded with stars. A full moon walk among the hoodoos is an experience you’ll never forget.
While mountain biking, dirt biking and ATV riding is not permitted within the park itself, the surrounding area offers hundreds of miles of good dirt trails for these activities. The summer sun is relentless in the high desert, so Autumn is without a doubt the best time to visit.
If you’re a distance runner, check out 
the Goblin Valley Ultra Marathon held each year in late October. It could just be the most breathtaking race you’ve ever run.
Non-campers can stay in Green River, Utah, about a 45 minute drive from the park. You won’t find anything fancy or charming there, but the Robbers Roost is a clean and friendly place to spend the night.
Welcome back!
February 4th, 2011 at 9:26 pm
[...] Valley is the enchanting place where we can try the obstruction of sandstone hoodoos Photos here readmore [...] Campground Details Goblin Valley State Park UT [...]