Guide to Visiting Utah's Goblin Valley State Park

"Short, twisted, colorful hoodoos affectionately known as “goblins” form a surreal, wander-friendly landscape that rewards exploration — visitors can roam freely across three informal sections (First, Second and Third Valleys) rather than following strict trails. Situated roughly midway on the loop connecting Utah’s big national parks, the site is remote (expect multi-hour drives from major airports), has limited services, and requires preparation (fuel, spare tire, plenty of water and a physical map because cell service is spotty). Entry is by vehicle fee ($20), parking can fill quickly in high season (one-in, one-out when lots are full), and campground spots and two canvas-sided yurts book up fast on a four-month rolling basis; dispersed camping on nearby public lands is a rugged alternative. Spring and fall offer the best weather and biggest crowds; summer brings heat and monsoon flood risk, while winter is much quieter. Outdoor offerings include easy photo spots and short hikes (including a very short Three Sisters viewpoint), longer routes and scrambling (Goblins Lair Trail), backroad 4x4 touring, canyoneering opportunities with local outfitters, disc golf and mountain-biking routes. The park is dog- and kid-friendly (Junior Ranger program), is a certified Dark Sky Park with exceptional Milky Way viewing and ranger-led night programs, and has some accessibility limits for getting down into the valley (viewpoints and reduced rates available). Visitor center Wi‑Fi is available but expect limited mapping and occasional search-and-rescue activity in surrounding lands." - Carrie Dennis Carrie Dennis Carrie Dennis is a New York City-based writer and editor with more than a decade of content strategy experience. Her work has appeared in Travel + Leisure, Gothamist, Time magazine, Men’s Journal, Redbook, and Thrillist. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines