Offbeat destination guide
Goblin Valley State Park & San Rafael Swell, Utah
Goblin Valley State Park and the expansive San Rafael Swell offer a distinct desert experience in central Utah. Goblin Valley features thousands of mushroom-shaped hoodoos, often called 'goblins,' inviting exploration. The surrounding San Rafael Swell is a vast, rugged landscape of canyons, mesas, and buttes, providing opportunities for scenic drives, hiking, and primitive camping. Both areas are renowned for their exceptionally dark night skies, making them prime locations for stargazing and astrophotography.
Quick answer
Is Goblin Valley State Park & San Rafael Swell, Utah right for you?
Goblin Valley State Park and the San Rafael Swell are ideal for families with teenagers seeking moderate hikes, geology enthusiasts, and stargazers. Visitors can explore unusual rock formations, vast desert landscapes, and enjoy dark skies without the crowds of more famous parks. It's a destination for those who appreciate quiet roads, exposed rock, and high desert scenery.
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Why go
Goblin Valley State Park, located in a remote part of Utah, presents a landscape unlike any other. Thousands of eroded sandstone formations, resembling whimsical figures, fill a valley floor, creating a natural playground for all ages. Visitors can wander freely among these 'goblins,' discovering new shapes and perspectives around every turn. The park offers short, easy trails that allow for close-up interaction with the geology, making it accessible for families and those seeking a relaxed pace.
Beyond the state park, the San Rafael Swell unfolds as a vast geological uplift, covering thousands of square miles. This immense area is characterized by dramatic canyons, towering mesas, and expansive desert vistas. The Swell provides a stark contrast to the more manicured national parks, offering a sense of raw wilderness and solitude. Activities here range from scenic drives along unpaved roads to more strenuous hikes into deep slot canyons like Little Wild Horse Canyon.
The region's isolation contributes to its designation as an International Dark Sky Park. On clear nights, the absence of light pollution reveals a spectacular display of stars, planets, and the Milky Way. Stargazing is a primary draw, with many visitors planning their trips around new moons to maximize visibility. Photography opportunities abound, from capturing the unique rock formations under daylight to long-exposure shots of the night sky.
Driving through the San Rafael Swell reveals layers of geological history, with exposed rock formations telling stories of ancient seas and tectonic forces. The area also holds remnants of early human activity, including Fremont culture petroglyphs and pictographs, and historical mining sites. While services are limited, the towns of Green River and Hanksville offer basic amenities and serve as gateways to this rugged and quiet desert environment. Prepare for self-sufficiency and bring plenty of water when exploring the Swell.
What stands out
Goblin Valley's Unique Hoodoos
Wander among thousands of mushroom-shaped sandstone formations, often called 'goblins,' that populate the valley floor. This geological playground invites free exploration and photography.
Best for: Families, photographers, and those seeking unusual geological formations.
San Rafael Swell Scenic Drives
Explore the vast, rugged landscapes of the San Rafael Swell via unpaved roads, revealing dramatic canyons, mesas, and desert vistas. Discover overlooks and remote areas.
Best for: Adventurers, photographers, and those who enjoy remote desert exploration by vehicle.
Dark Sky Stargazing
Experience exceptionally dark night skies, perfect for stargazing and astrophotography. The park is an International Dark Sky Park, offering clear views of celestial objects.
Best for: Stargazers, astrophotographers, and anyone seeking a clear view of the night sky.
Little Wild Horse Canyon Hike
Hike through a classic slot canyon with narrow, winding passages and sculpted sandstone walls. This moderate trail offers an immersive experience in the Swell's geology.
Best for: Hikers, families with older children, and those wanting a slot canyon experience.
Temple Mountain Historic Area
Visit the site of historic uranium mining, featuring old structures and interpretive signs. The area also offers views of the distinctive Temple Mountain.
Best for: History enthusiasts, geology buffs, and those interested in local mining heritage.
Plan the practical parts
Best time to go
Visit during spring (April-May) or fall (September-October) for mild temperatures suitable for hiking and exploration. Summer can be very hot, and winter brings cold temperatures, though snow is infrequent.
Getting there
Goblin Valley State Park is about an hour's drive southwest of Green River, Utah, and roughly 30 minutes north of Hanksville. Access is primarily by car via paved and well-maintained gravel roads. The nearest major airports are in Salt Lake City or Grand Junction, Colorado.
Getting around
A personal vehicle is essential for exploring both Goblin Valley State Park and the San Rafael Swell. While Goblin Valley has paved access roads, many routes within the San Rafael Swell are unpaved, requiring a high-clearance vehicle, and sometimes 4WD, especially after rain. Check road conditions locally.
Where to stay
Camping is available inside Goblin Valley State Park with reservations recommended. Nearby towns like Green River and Hanksville offer limited lodging, dining, and fuel options. Primitive camping is allowed in many areas of the San Rafael Swell on BLM land.
A comfortable pace
Plan for a moderate pace, allowing ample time for wandering among the goblins, short hikes, and scenic drives. Stargazing requires staying up late. A multi-day visit allows for thorough exploration of both the park and the surrounding Swell.
Accessibility planning
Goblin Valley State Park has paved parking areas and accessible restrooms at the visitor center. The valley floor itself is uneven terrain, making wheelchair access challenging. Many areas within the San Rafael Swell are rugged and unpaved, with limited accessibility. Verify current conditions and specific trail details before visiting.
Frequently asked questions
What are the 'goblins' in Goblin Valley State Park?
The 'goblins' are unique mushroom-shaped hoodoos, formed by the erosion of Entrada Sandstone. A harder rock cap protects the softer sandstone beneath, creating these distinctive figures.
Is Goblin Valley State Park suitable for families with children?
Yes, Goblin Valley is excellent for families. Children enjoy exploring the open valley floor and climbing on the 'goblins.' The park's main attractions are easily accessible, and hikes are generally short and engaging.
What activities are available in the San Rafael Swell?
The San Rafael Swell offers scenic drives, hiking, canyoneering, mountain biking, and primitive camping. Popular activities include exploring slot canyons like Little Wild Horse Canyon and viewing ancient rock art.
When is the best time to visit for stargazing?
The best time for stargazing is during the new moon phase, when the sky is darkest. Spring and fall offer comfortable night temperatures, but clear skies are common year-round. Check a moon phase calendar before your visit.
Are there services like food or fuel inside Goblin Valley State Park?
No, Goblin Valley State Park has no food or fuel services. A small visitor center offers information and a gift shop. Plan to bring all necessary supplies, including water, and fill up your fuel tank in Green River or Hanksville before heading to the park.
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