Alerts.

Winter advisory: As we go into winter, daylight is shorter meaning it gets colder faster. Make sure you know your route and can get back to your vehicle before dark- it is nerve-wracking when it starts to get dark and cold. Bring warm gear including a change of clothes for after hiking in case they get wet. Hypothermia is a risk for those who are unprepared. Bring flashlights, change of socks, matches and all of the essentials, and remember that it can be much colder and wetter in the canyons in the winter.

Heat advisory: expect hot and sunny conditions with temperatures in the 90’s and 100’s. Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are daily risks. Hike early in the day, bring plenty of water (at least 32 ounces per person per hour), know your route and your limitations, bring salty snacks or electrolytes, and wear lite clothing and sun protection. Plan to take breaks often!

Flash Flood Warnings: Please check the forecast before going into any canyons. A weather report is posted everyday at the Visitor Center. We do not recommend hiking canyons or camping in washes if there is any chance of rain. Click here for the weather. After going to the National Weather Service, click get a forecast, scroll down to the San Rafael Swell. You can either click on Goblin Valley State Park or Little Wild Horse Canyon/Bell Canyon Trailhead.

If you receive an alert on your phone such as “Public Safety Alert: Possible heavy rainfall could cause flash flooding in the San Rafael area, slick rock, and slot canyon areas. Avoid canyons, washes, and low lying terrain”, DO NOT plan to hike any of the canyons or washes. On these days, hiking in the Valley of Goblins is a safer option, although it may get muddy.