Goblin Valley State Park

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Perhaps Utah’s most remote state park, Goblin Valley is well worth the drive. This valley of sandstone gnomes more closely resembles the landscape of Mars than anything earthly.

The Setting

From deposits laid 135 million years ago by a vast inland sea, Goblin Valley State Park has taken shape from forces of nature such as uplift and erosion by wind and water. Today, results of these geologic forces are witnessed in the stone gnomes inhabiting the valley. These uniquely shaped goblins lure visitors to join them in their desert playground.

The Facility

Goblin Valley State Park offers day-use and camping, with modern restrooms and hot water showers heated by solar power. No hookups are available. The park has a resident Park Naturalist who offers fascinating programs on geology, wildlife, and history.

Park Features

Vegetation is limited to hardy desert species, which can endure blowing sand and hot, dry surface conditions. Vegetation and wildlife exist on a limited supply of water in this arid desert environment. Plants have adapted by reducing the size of their leaves, as smaller leaves lose less water through evaporation. Some plants have a waxy coating on their leaves, which also reduces water loss. Visitors will likely encounter Mormon tea (joint fir), Russian thistle, Indian ricegrass and various cacti. Nearby, at slightly higher elevations, are juniper and pinyon pine.

Animals often must travel many miles to find water or wait for thunderstorms to provide moisture. Most animals in the area are nocturnal, venturing out only in the cooler evenings to hunt and forage for food. Some animals get water from the food they eat and go for weeks without a drink of water. Jack rabbits, scorpions, kangaroo rats, pronghorn, kit foxes, midget faded rattler and coyotes are found within and near the park.

Camping Tips

Always carry water, wear sturdy walking shoes, and be prepared for changing weather conditions. Goblin Valley allows visitors to explore and meander among and in between the goblins, and offers three trails: Carmel Canyon - A 1.5-mile moderately strenuous loop leading from the parking area to the desert floor. Curtis Bench - A fairly easy 2.1-mile out and back trail that follows the Curtis formation. Entrada Canyon - An adventuresome, moderately strenuous, 1.3-mile one-way trail from the campground to the goblins and back.

Address

Goblin Valley State Park
P.O. Box 637
Green River, UT 84525-0637
(435) 564-3633
www.stateparks.utah.gov

Learn more about this park and book your reservation online    

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