Hike to Goblin's Lair and Carmel Canyon

This beautiful, isolated hike also makes for a flexible route – very few places in Goblin Valley are off limits, allowing you to customize the adventure as much as you please.

The hike begins on a rapidly descending trail, heading into the heart of Goblin Valley State Park. After a quarter mile of steep descents, the trail levels and winds through the mysterious hoodoo formations.

Any signs of civilization are soon left behind as the trail turns to face a cliff wall covered with “goblins” (the rock formations native to this area). As the hike continues, you are graced with the presence of wildflowers, various plant species, and potentially an occasional desert animal.

The final steep section of the hike travels along a well-developed trail through debris of fallen rock. After scrambling up the trail, you will notice a large slot canyon to your right, which appears out of nowhere in the face of the cliff. Dark and eerie in nature, the slot canyon compels you to either explore deeper or admire from above.

After exploring Goblin's Lair, follow the trail back the way you came, or continue exploring in Carmel Canyon, on the way back. The sun reflecting off the sandstone walls of the canyon give photographers the chance to capture the breathtaking beauty that is Goblin Valley.

After squeezing through narrow walls and ascending up a small rock face (no climbing equipment required), you will arrive back at the parking lot, hopefully excited by these adventures and hungry for more.

For more info on camping in Goblin Valley, Check out this adventure.