Goblin Valley State Park | Green River

Goblin Valley State Park is a geological park located in Wayne County, Utah, USA, near Green River.

It is characterized by thousands of hoodoos, also known as goblin-like rock formations, composed of sandstone and mudstone.

Visual Characteristics

The park features numerous hoodoos, which are irregularly shaped rock pillars ranging from 1 to 20 feet in height. These formations are primarily composed of Entrada Sandstone and are eroded into various shapes resembling human figures, animals, and abstract forms. The surrounding landscape consists of desert scrub, low-lying brush, and sparse vegetation. The ground is a mix of sand, gravel, and exposed rock.

Location & Access Logistics

Goblin Valley State Park is situated approximately 30 miles south of Interstate 70 (Exit 147) via UT-24 East and then south on Goblin Valley Road. The final 11 miles to the park entrance are on a paved road. Green River, the nearest significant town, is about 45 miles to the northeast. The park has a designated parking area near the main visitor center and campground. Public transport is not available to the park.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The hoodoos in Goblin Valley were formed by millions of years of erosion. Rain, wind, and freeze-thaw cycles have sculpted the soft Entrada Sandstone and the overlying layer of harder, more resistant caprock. The area is classified as a desert environment within the Colorado Plateau. The park was established in 1954 to protect these unique geological formations.

Key Highlights & Activities

Exploration of the main valley floor is the primary activity, allowing visitors to walk among the hoodoos. Designated hiking trails include the Valley of the Goblins trail (0.5 miles loop) and the Carmel Canyon trail (1.5 miles loop). Photography is popular, especially during sunrise and sunset. Stargazing is also a notable activity due to the low light pollution.

Infrastructure & Amenities

The park provides a visitor center with restrooms and a small gift shop. Picnic tables and shaded areas are available. A campground with basic facilities is located within the park. Cell phone signal is intermittent and generally unreliable within the park boundaries.

Best Time to Visit

The best time for visiting Goblin Valley State Park is during the spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) months when temperatures are moderate, typically ranging from 50°F to 80°F. Mid-morning and late afternoon offer optimal lighting conditions for photography, minimizing harsh shadows. Summer months (June-August) can experience extreme heat, with daytime temperatures often exceeding 100°F.

Facts & Legends

A local legend suggests that the hoodoos are petrified aliens or ancient beings. Geologically, the formations are a result of differential erosion, where softer rock erodes faster than the harder caprock protecting it, creating the distinctive shapes. A specific tip for visitors is to wear sturdy footwear, as the terrain can be uneven and sandy.

Nearby Landmarks

• Capitol Reef National Park (35km West)
• Hanksville (30km Northeast)
• Little Wild Horse Canyon (15km Southwest)
• Factory Butte (25km Northwest)