Goblin's Lair Trail

Dogs Leashed

Features Cave · Geological Significance · Views

Bring water as it can get quite hot in the desert.

This trail leads around the northern tip of the rocks that form Goblin Valley to the east side of Goblin Valley State Park. You have great views of Molly's Castle and into the barren east of the San Rafael Desert. You'll hike along the Carmel Canyon Loop until you take the spur for the Goblin's Lair.

The trail is becoming more developed each year; stay close to the rocks on your right. At the end, the trail zigzags steeply up the rocky slope towards the "hiker's entrance," which dips into the rocks unveiling a very large cavern, which is actually the mouth of a slot canyon that's partially blocked by rock fall.

You can descend to the cave floor, but the path down is very steep and can be slippery with loose sand. The cave is typically cool, even on a hot summer day. There is an opening in the ceiling of the cave, where you may be lucky to observe canyoneers rappelling during your visit. The canyoneering route requires a permit from the state park, and guided trips are also available.

Once you have spent some time cooling off in the cave, retrace your steps back to the junction with the Carmel Canyon Trail, then return to the trailhead.