Adventure Learning Trip Report - Goblin Valley Camping Trip

Our latest excursion took us to the remote, south-central Utah area known as the San Rafael Swell, or maybe more commonly referenced, Goblin Valley. Our goal was to link up two slot canyons right through the heart of the “swell;” Little Wild Horse Canyon and Bell Canyon. While not technical in terms of rappels, ascensions, or other rope work, both of these canyons offered very narrow passages, climbing, descending, stemming (hands and feet on opposite walls to move forward) and plenty of water. 

The entire hike was just over eight miles, with over six of those miles in the two canyons themselves. This area of southern Utah is home to the iconic redrock sandstone that displays the powerful forces of wind and water erosion constantly. Several passages through the canyons required us to scrape through with both shoulders touching walls. Also, while we were eventually forced to get in the cold, thigh deep water to keep making progress, we did cover several hundred feet of slot canyon where we suspended ourselves over the pools of water and stemmed forward. 

The first mile or so of Little Wild Horse was relatively busy with other people, but once we got into the heart of the canyon we had much of the hike to ourselves. After we completed the hike, with everyone in high spirits I might add, we visited Goblin Valley State Park to gaze over the dozens of hoodoos that litter the valley. 

Despite the downpour during dinner on our first night, we had excellent weather and a great group that really contributed to the enjoyment of this trip.