Goblin Valley, Utah, USA
Goblin Valley State Park is a landscape of hoodoos (tall rock spires) in a remote part of eastern Utah. It looks like an…
Best Time: April–May or September–October (temperate; summer is hot, winter is cold)
Daily Budget: $30–50 (camping $25, camping $12–18, gas $10, food $8–15)
Getting There: Rent car in Moab or Grand Junction, drive to valley (2–3 hours)
Visa: Visa-free (US citizens), ESTA for others
Currency: US dollar
Language: English
Why Go
Goblin Valley State Park is a landscape of hoodoos (tall rock spires) in a remote part of eastern Utah. It looks like another planet. Most Americans have never heard of it. Tourism is minimal. There's one small campground and minimal infrastructure.
The valley is about 2 hours from anything (nearest town is Green River). But if you're willing to drive to remote Utah, you get a landscape that feels discovered despite being accessible.
The reason people don't visit: it's not on the tourist circuit and doesn't have the famous-ness of Moab or Arches. But for hikers and photographers seeking something genuinely alien and uncrowded, Goblin Valley rewards effort.
Top Experiences
Hoodoo hiking: Multiple trail options (1–4 hours depending on route). Free (park entry). Walk through alien landscape.
Photography: Sunrise and sunset light on rock formations. Free. Bring good camera.
Camping: Sleep in the valley. Campground $12–18/night. Basic facilities.
Stargazing: Remote location means dark skies. Free. Astounding star views.
Where to Stay
Budget:: Campground in park ($12–18/night) or nearby towns (Green River, Moab — 1–2 hours away).
Mid-Range:: Limited; Moab has mid-range options (1–2 hours away).
Splurge:: Limited; would require staying in Moab.
What to Eat
Camping food: Bring your own or buy in Green River (small town with basic supplies).
Moab restaurants: If staying in Moab (better food options, 1–2 hours away).
Plan & budget
Getting there
Rent car in Moab or Grand Junction, drive to valley (2–3 hours)
Daily budget
$30–50 (camping $25, camping $12–18, gas $10, food $8–15)
Best time
April–May or September–October (temperate; summer is hot, winter is cold)
Insider Tip
The drive to Goblin Valley is part of the experience — it's remote. Cell service is spotty; download maps. Camping is the best way to experience the valley. Bring water (no refilling at valley). Sunrise and sunset are the best times for photography and hiking. Most visitors are hikers and photographers; the place has authentic, non-touristy energy. Combine with Arches or Canyonlands if you want more-developed tourism nearby, but Goblin Valley is the gem.
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