Nestled in the heart of Utah’s desert landscape lies Goblin Valley State Park, a hidden gem that’s been captivating visitors for generations. This unique park is home to thousands of goblin-like rock formations, each one more fascinating and intriguing than the last. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just looking for a fun day trip, Goblin Valley State Park is the perfect destination for anyone seeking adventure and inspiration.
Here’s an itinerary to help you make the most of your time in this enchanting park:
Morning: Scenic Drive and the Goblin Valley Trail
Start the day with a scenic drive through the park. You’ll see some of the most incredible goblins from the comfort of your car and have the chance to stop and explore along the way.
The Goblin Valley Trail is a 2.5-mile loop trail that takes you through the heart of Goblin Valley State Park, giving you an up-close and personal look at the thousands of goblin-like rock formations that make the park so unique. The trail is considered easy to moderate in difficulty and takes about 1-2 hours to complete, depending on your pace.
As you hike the trail, you’ll be surrounded by hundreds of goblins of all shapes and sizes. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to stop and admire the unique formations, take photos, and even climb on some of the smaller goblins. The trail is well-marked and easy to follow, so you won’t have to worry about getting lost.
Along the way, you’ll also have the opportunity to learn about the park’s fascinating geology and history. Informational signs and displays along the trail will give you insights into the forces that shaped the landscape, and the creatures that once lived here.
One of the highlights of the Goblin Valley Trail is the viewpoint that provides a bird’s eye view of the entire park. From this vantage point, you’ll be able to see the goblins from a whole new perspective, and get a sense of just how vast and diverse the park really is.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just looking for a fun day trip, the Goblin Valley Trail is a must-visit destination. With its easy-to-follow path, incredible scenery, and fascinating history, it’s an unforgettable experience that you won’t soon forget.
Lunch
Enjoy a picnic lunch at one of the park’s many picnic areas.
Stop by the park’s visitors center to learn more about the park’s history and geology.
Afternoon: Hike the Wild Horse Butte Trail
The Wild Horse Butte Trail is a 3-mile hike that takes you to the top of a nearby mesa, offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding desert and the park itself. The trail is considered moderate in difficulty and takes about 2-3 hours to complete, depending on your pace.
As you make your way up the trail, you’ll pass through a variety of landscapes, from towering rock formations to wide-open expanses of desert. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to stop and catch your breath, and to take in the stunning vistas that surround you.
Once you reach the top of the mesa, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views that stretch for miles in every direction. You’ll see the goblins from a whole new perspective and be able to take in the beauty of the surrounding desert in all its splendor.
The Wild Horse Butte Trail is also a great destination for bird-watching, as the mesa is home to a variety of bird species. So be sure to bring your binoculars and keep an eye out for colorful birds like the Western Tanager and the Black-throated Sparrow.
Overall, the Wild Horse Butte Trail is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Goblin Valley State Park. With its challenging climb and breathtaking views, it’s an unforgettable experience that you won’t soon forget.
Why not stay for the sunset? You’ll have panoramic views of the park and the surrounding desert, and can see the goblins in a whole new light.
Evening: Enjoy the Majestic Night Sky
Return to your campsite for dinner and a relaxing evening under the stars. Being in such a remote area means that you will be able to see a lot more stars than you normally would. Look out for the milky way.
Conclusion
Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just looking for a fun day trip, Goblin Valley State Park is the perfect destination for anyone seeking adventure and inspiration. So pack your bags, grab your hiking shoes, and head out to discover the magic of Goblin Valley State Park!
