Paliza Goblin Colony

The trail begins on a closed forest service road, which is part of Paliza Canyon Road. You'll find parking available at the trailhead. The drive to the area itself offers scenic views, including red cliffs and, seasonally, golden cottonwood trees along the Jemez River.

The hike typically starts on a closed forest service road that transitions into a singletrack trail. As you ascend, the terrain becomes a steep hillside with soft ground, loose sand, and gravel. Within the 'Goblin Colony' itself, you'll navigate through hundreds of volcanic rock columns without a clearly defined path, requiring you to pick your own route. Be prepared for steep descents in some sections.

While some parts of the hike are relatively easy, exploring the Goblin Colony itself can be strenuous due to steep, loose terrain. The hillside where the hoodoos are located gains over 250 feet in less than 0.2 miles, making direct climbs challenging. It's not ideal for very young children or those new to hiking on uneven, steep ground. Hiking poles are highly recommended for stability.

The Paliza Goblin Colony trail is located within the Santa Fe National Forest. Generally, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required for day hiking in this area of the National Forest. However, always check the official Santa Fe National Forest website for the most current regulations before your visit.

Yes, dogs are generally allowed on trails within the Santa Fe National Forest. However, it's always best to keep your dog on a leash to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all hikers. Be mindful that the steep, loose terrain within the Goblin Colony might be challenging for some dogs.

The trail can be enjoyed during various seasons, but spring and fall often offer the most pleasant hiking conditions with milder temperatures. Summer can be hot, and winter may bring snow and icy conditions, making the already challenging terrain even more difficult. The drive to the trailhead in season offers beautiful golden cottonwood trees along the Jemez River.

The 'goblins' are captivating eroded volcanic columns, or hoodoos, that formed approximately 1.25 million years ago from pyroclastic clouds and hot ash interacting with water. This process created harder zeolite pillars that remained as the surrounding softer rock eroded. Their unusual shapes often resemble ghoulish faces or human and animal-like profiles, creating an otherworldly and visually distinctive landscape.

Given the steep and loose terrain, especially within the Goblin Colony, hiking poles are highly recommended. Sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support are also essential. Bring plenty of water, as there are no water sources on the trail, and sun protection. Layers of clothing are advisable due to potential elevation changes and varying weather conditions.

The primary draw is the captivating sight of the 'goblins' themselves, scattered among ponderosa pines and alligator junipers. Beyond the unique rock formations, you can enjoy views of the surrounding canyons. Some routes in the area may also include visits to nearby Pueblo ruins, adding a historical dimension to the natural beauty.

Yes, the route follows sections of Paliza Canyon Road for a significant portion of its length.

While the core loop through the Goblin Colony can be done in a shorter time, the overall experience can vary. Depending on your chosen route and how much time you spend exploring the formations, total distances can range from approximately 1.5 miles to over 5 miles. The steep and challenging sections mean it can take longer than expected for its distance, especially if you're navigating carefully.