Amazing Hoodoos of Goblin Valley State Park, Utah

The Hoodoos of Goblin Valley could be one of the strangest and most fascinating sites in Utah, USA. The odd hoodoos were formed by the erosion of the so-called "Entrada sandstone," which developed during the Jurassic period between 190 and 140 million years ago. The Entrada is made up of eroded debris from past highlands that was redeposited on a former tidal flat with alternating layers of sandstone, siltstone, and shale. 

Goblin Valley's hoodoos are mushroom-shaped sandstone boulders that reach heights of up to 50 feet. Hoodoos are often found in arid, rocky environments. Their form results from the sandstone's inconsistent hardness. The top of the stone is often tougher than the bottom, shielding the foundation from elemental deterioration. Wind and water eroded these massive sandstone rocks over many decades. The end effect is an army of distinct hoodoo goblins. Animals and vegetation are scarce in Goblin Valley due to a shortage of water and food.  

However, the rocks, coves, and hundreds of miles of dirt roads are enough to keep any tourist both scared and entertained. The valley bottom is made mostly of bedrock. Because of a lack of soil and vegetation, water is not absorbed into the ground, and rainfall causes flash flooding. In addition, because of the valley's dryness and humidity, lightning frequently starts wildfires. Cowboys were the first to discover Goblin Valley, but Arthur Chaffin made a key discovery in the 1920s. 

Chaffin returned in 1949 to study the beautiful region, which he dubbed Mushroom Valley. The state of Utah claimed the area and officially designated it as a state park in 1964. Goblin Valley was used as the setting for the Hollywood film "Galaxy Quest" because of its strange scenery. Summer average daily highs range from 32 to 41 °C, but the low humidity, high elevation, and sparse vegetation allow evenings to fall quickly below 10 °C. 

Furthermore, the infrequent summer monsoon that arrives from the south can produce violent and localized thunderstorms. The rough terrain and heavy rains can cause disastrous flash floods, while low humidity, gusty winds, and frequent lightning can start wildfires. 

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