Goblin Valley Ultra Marathon: FAQs
Answers to Questions you have asked:
1. Is the whole race run inside Goblin State Park? No. Goblin State Park is a small park, encompassing approximately 3,000 acres. The majority of the race will take place on dirt roads around Goblin State Park. The final mile will take you through the park and into the scenic goblin formations seen on the website.
2. Is there lots of pavement to run on? No. There will be less than three miles of pavement.
3. What kind of scenery will be along the dirt roads? You will run by multi-colored mesas, through an ancient water carved canyon, onto a stark, eerily silent desert, and then on the inbound you will run into the goblin filled park itself. Along the way, you'll see marvelous vistas of the Henry Mountains to the south east, and other ranges further in the distance.
4. Are there cattle on the course? A few. It is open range land. Please do not run over cows as they have the right-of-way. If you are afraid of cows, this is not the race for you.
5. Can I go to the bathroom inside the park itself (the final three miles)? NO! The park is open to the public during the entire race. There will be toilets at all stations. You may use the toilet at the last station or wait until after you enter the finish. You may use the outdoors discreetly along cross country trails outside of the park. Please be prepared to bury your deposits.
6. Why the late 8 am start? Because of the remoteness of the event, it was decided that in order for volunteers and runners not to feel too rushed, a later start was the safest and best option. Remember, it takes an hour from Green River to get to Goblin Valley State Park, and this does not include the time it takes to park your car and possibly walk or be shuttled to the start. Speed limits vary, and there are cattle and other varmints on the roads. PLEASE take your time and drive carefully!
7. Can I dress up in my favorite Halloween costume? We will host a Costume Ball on Saturday night, and we would LOVE to have you in costume. And bring the kids. Prizes will be awarded for best costume.
8. Are dogs allowed on the course? Dogs are allowed on the course and must be on a leash at all times. Owners are totally responsible for the dog's behavior. Remember to do the doo-doo bag thing.
9. Can I change my race on race day? You may, but we will not be able to change our time sheets, change your color-coordinated bib, notify the aid stations that you are on a different course, and, if you get lost, we may not know where to look for you.
10. Are there camp spots available? There is a campground at the State Park which is limited and they charge a fee. You can make a reservation by calling 800-322-3770. There are BLM campgrounds at Temple Mountain, which is about 7 miles from the park that are free with no hookups. There are also a few primitive camping spots along the route.
11. If I cancel, do I get a refund? It depends. If you contact us two weeks before the race, we will send you a refund. After that, everything is set for the race; we have already purchased your shirt, medal, and meals, and we will not refund your entry fee.
12. Can my friend run the race without paying? Yes. The park and the trails are open to the public. However, we will not keep the time, and there will not be a shirt, medal or meal.
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