Goblin Valley has some unique geology
Utah’s known for its breathtaking landscapes, but there’s a lesser-known park that’s an absolute hidden gem.
Think weird, otherworldly rock formations and trails that’ll make you feel like you’re on a different planet. Here’s why you gotta see this place.
What We Mean by ‘Goblins’
Goblin Valley State Park looks more extraterrestrial than prehistoric.
The park has thousands of “hoodoos,” locally known as “goblins”. Some stand 10 feet tall, others look straight outta a sci-fi movie, like the Three Sisters, an iconic geological formation.
Age Old Stones
These rocks are ancient. We’re talking over 200 million years old. They’ve been slowly sculpted by erosion since the Jurassic period.
The layers you see in the stone? That’s Entrada sandstone shaped by millions of years of wind and water.
Killer Hiking Trails
Out of the 20 miles of trails here, the Goblin’s Lookout loop is the one you don’t miss. It’s just a 1.5-mile hike, super easy.
Drop by Wild Horse Butte, with its four layers of Jurassic rock. Here’s a fun fact. It was visited by John C. Frémont back in the day.
Photography Heaven
Here’s real history mixed with some serious views. Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light for taking a shot, especially for those long shadows that stretch across the rock formations.
You’ll get the best colors at sunrise when the rocks glow a rich red.
Wildlife Galore
Over 100 bird species live here, including the American Pronghorn. Wander through and you might spot one galloping ahead.
You’ll also find desert cottontails, rock wren, and maybe even the elusive Gila monster if you’re lucky. Keep your eyes peeled.
Amazing Stargazing
This place is an International Dark Sky Park, meaning the stars are so clear, they almost feel within reach.
On a good night, you can see the Milky Way stretching across the sky. It’s so dark here that you’ll lose all sense of direction without a flashlight.
Picnic Spots & Camp Sites
If you’re looking to eat outdoors, Goblin Grove is the spot. The picnic tables are tucked right by the rock formations, with a perfect view of the twisted shapes around you.
It’s quiet too, so you can camp down and enjoy a meal under the starlight.
Caves and All That
The Goblin’s Lair is a cool slot canyon. You get there by hiking a 3.7-mile loop. The entrance has some wild rock formations, and yeah, you’ll need to do a bit of scrambling to get in.
It was once a tidal flat 170 million years ago, and the inside? Light pours in from vents over 100 feet high. It used to be a hidden spot, now you need permits for rappelling.
Accessible to All
No need to worry about rough terrain. The park has paved paths that lead to some of the best views.
There’s even parking close to the main spots and restrooms along the way. You’ll get all the beauty, with none of the struggle.
Learn from the Rangers
The rangers here know their stuff. They run programs year-round about the park’s wildlife, geology, and the history behind the rock formations.
Want to know why the rocks are red? They’ll tell you. Curious about the rare birds that migrate through? They’ve got the answer.
The post Giant Stone Goblins Are Watching Over This State Park in Utah appeared first on When In Your State.
