Welcome to the Utah Goblin Valley Tour
Tour Utah’s captivating Goblin Valley State Park with this GPS-guided driving tour! This peculiar park is filled with countless strange rock formations that must be seen to be believed. Witness the many “goblins” from on high at Goblin Overlook or get up close and personal in the Goblin’s Lair. Visit towering formations like Molly’s Castle and Wild Horse Butte and find out how all these unusual sights came to be. Plus, see ancient art at the Temple Mountain Wash Pictograph Panel, featuring images painted centuries ago!
About the Tour
You’ll begin at the start of Temple Mountain Road, not far from the park entrance itself.
As you drive toward the imposing San Rafael Swell, you’ll learn how this landscape formed in the first place. It’s a tale of tectonic collisions, ancient seas, and much more! Plus, get familiar with some of the area’s wildlife so you know how to spot them!
Next, you’ll learn about the Barrier Canyon style of ancient art, before heading to the Temple Mountain Pictograph Panel to see some of this centuries-old art for yourself. It’s a slice of history preserved in stone!
Then you’ll cruise through the vast desert and get to know the Fremont people, as well as the explorers who first happened across the “goblins” of Goblin Valley.
As you approach the park itself, you’ll take in the majestic sights of Molly’s Castle and Wild Horse Butte and find out how to decipher their fascinating geology. Then you’ll have the chance to hike the Curtis Bench Trail for some fabulous desert views.
At last, you’ll reach Goblin Overlook, where you’ll see the strange and otherworldly goblins themselves, along with an option to hike to the Goblin’s Lair for a closer look! Your tour concludes here.
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Goblin Valley Map
Where To Start?
Start your tour from the Temple Mount Road: 85CFJCJM+78
How Does It Work?
- Once you book a tour, you’ll get a text/email with instructions.
- Download the app (while in good wifi/signal) and use your unique password to access your tours. If there are multiple versions or entrances for your tour, be sure to download all audio guides.
- Audio Setup: Connect your phone to the car stereo via Bluetooth, USB, or Aux, and bring headphones on walking tours. CarPlay and Android Auto are not yet supported. We are working with Apple for a resolution.
- To begin touring, go to the starting point and launch the app.
- The audio starts automatically once you reach the starting point. Stick to the tour route and speed limit for the best experience.
- Please note that no one will meet you at the starting point.
Audio Story Highlights
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Goblins of Goblin Valley
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San Rafael Swell
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Jackrabbits
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Barrier Canyon Style
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Temple Mountain Wash Pictograph Panel
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Persevering Plants
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The Fremont
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Discovering Goblins
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Molly’s Castle
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Wild Horse Butte
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The Three Sisters
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Goblin Overlook
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Goblin's Lair
Preview The Tour
Tour FAQs
Goblin Valley is named after its unique and otherworldly rock formations, which resemble goblins or other fantastical creatures.
Yes, Goblin Valley State Park is generally open year-round, but the visitor center hours and accessibility may vary during the winter months.
You can explore the main features of Goblin Valley State Park in a few hours, but many visitors choose to spend half a day or more to fully enjoy the unique rock formations and landscapes.
Goblin Valley does occasionally receive light snowfall during the winter months, but it’s not a typical or significant snow destination.
Yes, Goblin Valley State Park is definitely worth visiting for its otherworldly landscapes, surreal rock formations (hoodoos), and opportunities for hiking, photography, and exploration.
The distinctive rock formations in Goblin Valley are estimated to be around 170 million years old, dating back to the Jurassic period.
Goblin Valley is home to various desert wildlife, including desert cottontail rabbits, kangaroo rats, lizards, and a variety of bird species. Visitors may also spot mule deer and coyotes.
Goblin Valley gained additional fame when it was featured in the 1999 film “Galaxy Quest.” The unique landscape served as the alien planet setting for the movie’s iconic scenes.
Inclusions and Exclusions
App on your phone: A link to download the Action Tour Guide App and Password for your tours.
Easy to use: Stories play automatically by GPS. Hands-free. Get HELP all day: Call, Chat, or Email.
Flexible schedule: Use any day, any time. Valid for multiple visits up to 1 year after purchase.
Interactive audio stories: Experience local history and culture through clear, concise narratives from experienced narrators.
At your own pace: No group. Take breaks for photos, snacks, hikes. Go at your own pace.
Offline use: No cell signal or wifi required. Offline GPS Map & route. Stop-to-stop direction.
Don’t miss a thing: Full itinerary, travel tips, professionally narrated videos, text, and hidden gems.
Transportation, parking fees, food, and drinks.
Entry tickets or reservations to any attractions along the route.
Car Rental: Please arrange a rental car at the closest airport or train station.
