Stone Gnomes of Goblin Valley, 6/16/2018

The first time I saw photos of the crazy rock formations at Goblin Valley State Park, I knew I had to see them in person! Located in Green Valley, UT, is about 80 miles from Torrey where we are staying. The roads here, though, have very little traffic so driving this distance is not an issue for us. 

Upon arrival, we stopped at the Visitor Center to obtain a map and see the exhibits. 

The topographical map illustrates San Rafael Swell, an anticline (dome-like structure) that occurs when horizontal rock layers arch upwards. Wind and water erosion has exposed older rocks here, at the center of the Swell. 

Goblin State Park was at the edge of a shallow island sea where sand, silt, and clay sediments hardened into the Entrada Sandstone formation after the sea disappeared. When the Entrada layers became exposed, the creating of the goblins began. Some compare the landscape here to Mars!

While searching for cattle in this remote part of Utah in the late 1920s, cowboys (Arthur Chaffin and two companions) came across this valley. Chaffin returned in 1949 to explore and photograph the unusual rock formations. The state of Utah acquired the property to protect it from vandalism and officially designated it a state park in 1964. 

With a map in hand, we headed out to the valleys (there are three) of stone gnomes. Along the way we stopped to snap a few photos of the strange rock formations.

When we arrived at the Observation Point at Valley 1, it was amazing to see all of the goblins!

One of the best things about this place for us is that dogs are permitted in the valleys and on the trails. There are three primary trails in the park, but we chose, instead, to wander around the valleys to see the bizarre rock formations up close. 

There are “windows” everywhere!

The erosion patterns continued to amaze us.

The more we looked at the goblins the more they started taking on anthropomorphic or animal characteristics. To me, the two goblin in the first photo are lovers preparing to kiss; and, the second looks like a frog face. Do you see the same?

We continued to hike deeper into the valley. Be sure to bring plenty of water and wear a hat as this is a very hot and arid environment. 

In some areas there are “caves” that we had a great time exploring. John helped me climb into this one for an awesome view of this part of the valley. 

Many paths through the valleys will take you through the maze of rock formations. 

Wandering among the crazy eroded rock formations was really fascinating. What a memorable experience!

The day-use entrance fee is $15 at Goblin Valley State Park. For additional information about the park, and the campground, go to stateparks.utah.gov/parks/goblin-valley.

Driving on Highway 24 through Capitol Reef National Park on our return trip to Torrey, we made a quick stop to check out this one-room cabin. Built in 1862 by Elijah Cutler Behunin and his family, they were one of the earliest pioneers in the area. Seeking religious freedom, many Mormons moved to this remote region of Utah to create self-sufficient communities. 

The family only lived her for one year due to frequent flooding of the Fremont River (that destroyed their crops and irrigation system). Moving to nearby Fruita (on higher ground), Behunin and his wife, Tabitha, had 13 children. 

Nearby, we snapped some photos in these large “waterpockets.” 

What a fun day!