Goblin's Lair and Carmel Canyon

Dogs Leashed

Features Cave · Geological Significance · Views

Explore a slot canyon and expansive open desert on your journey to and from the "Goblin's Lair" cavern formation. Enjoy views of Molly's Castle and mountains on the horizon as you trace the backside of the cliffs that form Goblin Valley. Scramble up to find the hidden entrance of the lair and discover what lies inside.

Some moderate scrambling, on sandy and possibly crumbly rock, is required along this route. Know your ability and use extra caution, as this area on the edge of the state park is quite remote and far from help. The open-desert route is also more difficult than the mileage makes it seem. Bring good footwear, sun protection, and plenty of water.

Begin on the Carmel Canyon Loop, following it for about 1/2 mile before the Goblin's Lair Trail splits off. This trail will take you around the northern tip of the rocks that form the Valley of the Goblins, emerging into the vast expanse of the San Rafael Desert.

The trail can be hard to follow in places, but it's becoming more worn-in with time. If in doubt, just stay close to the base of the cliffs on your right. A sign marks the way to turn, and from there the trail zigzags steeply up a rocky slope towards the entrance of the Goblin's Lair. You'll have to scramble, using your hands and good balance, to get up and down the large rubble pile that guards the entrance.

Once inside, you'll be standing in a very large cavern with sunlight filtering through gaps in the roof. This is not actually a cave, but the mouth of a slot canyon that's partially blocked by rockfall. The cave is typically nice and cool inside, even on a hot summer day. It's a good place to pause and relax before continuing on your hike.

From the Goblin's Lair you have a couple of options for where to go next. You could continue back the way you came, or you might take the 1/4 mile extension to find the Goblette's Lair, a lesser-known formation that is also worth exploring.

There is yet more to see, however, once you've retraced your steps back to the Carmel Canyon Loop. If you still have the energy and water to spare, continue on the north side of the loop to find another interesting slot canyon.

The path crosses a dry wash a few times before turning left into a small side canyon. The canyon constricts quickly into a short section of narrows, then leads back up to the Goblin Valley Road. The end of the loop requires some minor scrambling through low cliff bands, so use caution on the loose rocks.