Drive into a landscape of squat hoodoos and GPS-triggered stories with this self-guided audio tour of Goblin Valley State Park. Stop for pictographs, short hikes and sunset views on a flexible 5–6 hour exploration.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You pull off Highway 24 where the red dirt opens into a small valley dotted with squat, wind-sculpted hoodoos that look like a crowd frozen mid-argument. The audio guide begins, a steady voice over ambient desert wind, and the road unwinds past Temple Mountain Junction toward clustered goblins, pictograph panels and a visitor center with flushing toilets — a small comfort in a big landscape.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
5–6 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; expect short moderate hikes (up to 1.8 miles) on sandy, uneven terrain.
Wildlife
History
Entrada sandstone here dates to the Jurassic; Fremont and ancestral Pueblo peoples left pictographs in washes that are still visible today.
Conservation
Stick to marked trails and avoid climbing fragile hoodoos — the soft sandstone erodes quickly under foot traffic. Pack out all trash and limit group impacts at pictograph sites.
Reserve your spot on the Goblin Valley State Park Self-Guided Audio Tour today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Download before you arrive
Redeem and download the Shaka Guide tour on Wi‑Fi so the offline map and audio run without cell service.
Carry ample water
Desert days can be hot and dry—plan for at least 2–3 liters per person and extra for any hikes.
Wear sturdy shoes
Trails are sandy and rocky with some narrows; closed-toe shoes with traction make climbs and slot sections easier.
Time your visit
Sunset amplifies color and shadow on the goblins, but parking is busiest late afternoon—arrive early if you want a quiet overlook.
2–3 liters water or hydration pack
Hydration is critical in the high desert where shade is limited.
summer
Sturdy hiking shoes
Protects feet on sand, slickrock and in narrow sections of trail.
Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
UV exposure is high; bring broad-spectrum sunscreen and a brimmed hat.
spring
Smartphone with Shaka Guide app and offline downloads
Runs the GPS-activated audio, maps and turn-by-turn directions without cell service.