Looking for a unique adventure that blends otherworldly scenery with a relaxed, personalized touch? This Private Goblin Valley State Park Tour from Salt Lake City might be just what you need. Designed for up to six people, it offers a comfortable, tailored experience that takes you deep into Utah’s stunning desert landscape—far from the typical crowd.

What we really appreciate about this tour are its flexibility and the chance to interact freely with the environment, unlike more crowded national parks. Plus, the visit to Little Wild Horse Slot Canyon adds a compelling twist, giving you that narrow, winding hiking experience you won’t forget. That said, it’s a full-day commitment, and the drive is around three hours each way, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a bit of travel.

One thing to keep in mind is the weather—you’ll go regardless of conditions, so packing appropriately is key. This trip is ideal for those who love exploring offbeat scenery, enjoy flexible itineraries, and appreciate a guide who can customize the day to your interests. If that sounds like you, read on for a detailed breakdown of what to expect.

Key Points

Private, customizable experience tailored to your activity level and interests
Explore surreal hoodoo formations in Goblin Valley, where interaction and climbing are encouraged
Hiking in Little Wild Horse Slot Canyon offers a narrow, winding adventure carved by water
Luxury transportation ensures comfort over the 3-hour drive each way
All entrance fees and snacks are included, with the option to choose your dinner spot at the end
Weather isn’t a barrier—the tour runs regardless of conditions

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The Journey Begins: Pickup and Drive

The tour kicks off with hotel pickup in the Salt Lake City area, including Provo or Park City if needed. The convenience of door-to-door pickup means no fuss, and with a luxury SUV accommodating up to six people, everyone can settle in comfortably for the roughly three-hour drive. It’s a good time to start adjusting expectations—this is a full-day affair, so packing snacks and water is a smart move.

During the drive, your guide will likely share some tidbits about Utah’s landscape, setting the scene for the adventure ahead. We’ve read that guides are quite knowledgeable—many guests comment on their friendly demeanor and insights, which makes the long drive feel shorter.

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Arriving at Goblin Valley: A Natural Playground

Once you arrive at Goblin Valley State Park, the real fun begins. Here, the landscape is dotted with bizarre, mushroom-shaped hoodoos—some towering several feet tall—that form a vast, natural maze. Unlike in national parks where visitors are encouraged to look but not touch, Goblin Valley invites you to climb, explore, and get hands-on with the formations.

The park’s terrain is welcoming for all activity levels, but be prepared for some uneven ground. The guide will help tailor your experience if you prefer a leisurely walk or a more active scramble. The park’s uniqueness lies in its freedom of interaction, making it a perfect playground for the curious and adventurous.

Guests have praised the guides for their enthusiasm and knowledge, often noting that they made sure everyone felt comfortable navigating the terrain. Expect plenty of opportunities to snap photos—these hoodoo formations are straight out of a fantasy novel.

Picnic Lunch and Free Exploration

After working up an appetite, you’ll enjoy a picnic lunch amid the stunning desert backdrop. This break is also your chance to chat with your guide about the landscape, its formation, or any other questions you might have. Many visitors find the combination of fresh air and good food a real highlight.

Post-lunch, the exploration continues. The guide will probably encourage you to climb and interact with the park’s formations, which is a significant departure from more strictly-preserved parks. It’s about engaging with nature rather than just observing it. For families or those traveling with kids, this aspect tends to be a hit—kids can really get involved in the experience.

The Detour to Little Wild Horse Slot Canyon

Next up is a visit to Little Wild Horse Slot Canyon, a highlight for many. This canyon is a narrow, winding water-carved passage that offers a different kind of landscape—intimate, secluded, and visually striking. Expect to walk through a twisting, shaded corridor with impressive, towering walls on either side.

It’s a popular choice among those wanting a more active experience, but it’s also accessible enough for most hikers. The canyon’s relatively short length makes it a manageable trek, but be sure to wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring a sense of adventure. Many reviews mention how this part of the tour adds a special touch, giving you a chance to see Utah’s water-formed rock architecture up close.

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Return Journey and Dinner Options

As the day winds down, you’ll head back toward Salt Lake City. The guide will stop at a recommended local restaurant for dinner—though not included in the tour price—so you can choose something that fits your mood, whether it’s a casual burger spot or a more upscale place. Many guests appreciate the flexibility here, as it allows for a relaxed end to an active day.

The trip concludes with your return to your accommodation by around 10:00 PM, making it a full but satisfying experience. It’s worth noting that the tour operates regardless of weather, so come prepared with sun protection or layers if needed.

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What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour offers excellent value for the price. Included are hotel pickup and drop-off, snacks, water, soft drinks, a picnic lunch, hiking poles, and all park entrance fees. The luxury SUV ensures comfort, and the small group size means a more personalized experience.

Dinner isn’t included, so plan ahead based on your preferences. It’s also worth remembering to bring sunglasses, a sun hat, sunscreen, and cash for tips or additional purchases.

The Real Deal: Pros and Cons

On the plus side, the private, customizable nature of this tour means you get a tailored experience without the crowds. Many reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides, who seem genuinely interested in sharing their love for Utah’s landscapes. The combination of interactive park exploration and a slot canyon hike offers a varied day that appeals to adventurous spirits.

However, the drive is quite long, and if you’re not a fan of spending hours in a vehicle, it might feel taxing. The weather is another consideration—since the tour runs regardless of conditions, you’ll want to pack appropriately and be mentally prepared for potentially hot sun or unexpected weather.

In terms of value, at $1,475 for a group of up to six, it’s a fair price for a private day out with all logistics taken care of. If you’re traveling with a small group or family, it’s a convenient way to see some of Utah’s most unique landscapes without the hassle of planning individual trips.

This experience suits travelers who love offbeat scenery and intimate, flexible trips. It’s perfect for those comfortable with a full day of travel and active exploration. If you appreciate guided experiences where the focus is on interaction and personal attention, you’ll find this tour very rewarding.

While not explicitly tailored for children, the interactive nature and manageable hikes might appeal to families with older kids who enjoy outdoor adventures. It’s also great for photography enthusiasts wanting to capture some truly surreal landscapes.

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From Salt Lake City: Private Goblin Valley State Park Tour

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for people with limited mobility?
Since the tour involves walking in uneven terrain and narrow slot canyons, it might not be suitable for those with limited mobility. Always check with the provider if you have specific needs.

What should I bring for the day?
Bring sunglasses, a sun hat, sunscreen, hiking shoes, and cash. The guide provides hiking poles and all park fees are covered.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. It’s flexible, which is helpful if your plans change unexpectedly.

Will the tour operate in bad weather?
Yes, the tour runs regardless of weather, so dress appropriately and be prepared for sun, wind, or rain.

What is included in the price?
Hotel pickup and drop-off, snacks, water, soft drinks, picnic lunch, hiking poles, and park entrance fees are included.

Is dinner included?
No, dinner is not included. You’ll stop at a local restaurant on the way back, so you can choose based on your preference.

How long is the drive each way?
Approximately three hours each way, comfortably covered in a luxury SUV.

What is the group size?
This is a private tour for up to six guests.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the tour is tailored to your interests and activity level, making it a personalized experience.

This Goblin Valley tour offers a fantastic way to see some of Utah’s most unusual and striking landscapes without the crowds typical of national parks. It’s well-suited for curious travelers who want a private, flexible experience with the guidance of knowledgeable locals. Whether you’re into climbing, photography, or simply soaking in surreal scenery, this adventure will deliver a day full of memorable sights.