Carmel Canyon Loop Trail

The Carmel Canyon Loop Trail is located within Goblin Valley State Park. Parking is available at the main trailhead within the park. Follow signs for the Carmel Canyon Loop or the Goblin's Lair access.

Yes, as the Carmel Canyon Loop Trail is located within Goblin Valley State Park, an entrance fee is required to access the park. You can find current fee information on the official Utah State Parks website: utah.gov. No additional permits are typically needed for day hiking the loop itself.

This trail is considered moderate in difficulty. You'll encounter varied terrain, including walking along washes, descending into the canyon, and some minor scrambling over slickrock and boulders. There are also sections with tight squeezes, offering a taste of slot canyon hiking. It's an engaging hike that requires using both hands and feet in places.

The Carmel Canyon Loop Trail is approximately 1.6 miles long and generally takes about one hour to complete. This duration can vary depending on your pace and how much time you spend exploring the unique formations.

While enjoyable year-round, the trail is particularly spectacular during the evening hours when the light enhances the colors of the formations. Spring and fall offer milder temperatures, making for a more comfortable hike. Summer can be very hot, so early mornings or late afternoons are recommended, and always bring plenty of water.

The trail offers spectacular scenery, including sweeping vistas of the unique Carmel goblin formations, the prominent Molly's Castle outcrop, and the iconic View of the "Three Sisters" rock formations. You'll also experience a short section of colorful narrows, providing a miniature slot canyon experience. From higher points, you can see the Henry Mountains and the vast Goblin Valley State Park.

Generally, dogs are allowed on trails within Goblin Valley State Park, including the Carmel Canyon Loop Trail, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. Always check the latest park regulations before your visit.

Given its moderate difficulty and sections requiring minor scrambling and tight squeezes, it's suitable for active families and beginners who are comfortable with varied terrain and some light rock climbing. It's a fun and adventurous introduction to canyon walking.

Yes, the Carmel Canyon Loop Trail is part of a larger trail system within Goblin Valley State Park. It provides access to the Goblin's Lair and intersects with other official trails such as the Three Sisters Trail, Goblin's Lair Trail, Entrada Canyon Trail, Grand Circle Trail, and Goblin Crawl Trail, allowing for various loop hike options.

Given the varied terrain and potential for sun exposure, it's recommended to bring sturdy hiking shoes with good grip, plenty of water, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), and snacks. A small backpack for essentials is also useful, especially for the scrambling sections.

The trail features several minor scrambling sections over slickrock and boulders, which add to the adventure. You'll also experience a short, colorful narrows section that gives a glimpse into slot canyon hiking, where you might need to walk along the sides due to tight squeezes. These elements make it a unique and engaging experience.