On Wednesday, April 1st, several hikers wound up caught by flash flooding near Utah’s Goblin Valley State Park. According to the park, the incident occurred in Little Wildhorse Canyon, just outside of Goblin Valley’s boundaries.
Goblin Valley rangers, Emery County Sheriff’s Office, Emery County EMS, DNR Law Enforcement, Emery County Search and Rescue and Green River State Park rangers all responded to the scene. Several people were caught in the flood and washed down the canyon.
Fortunately rangers were able to reach the group and hike them out to the trailhead, treating them for minor injuries. There was an 80% chance of rain and heavy clouds on Wednesday, pointing toward a high risk of flash flooding.
“Please don’t post insults, criticism or disparaging comments. Everyone makes errors in judgement at some point. These incidents give us all the chance to plan better and be prepared next time.“
If you’re planning to hike canyons, make sure you always check the weather forecast before doing so, and pay attention to the weather you see unfolding. If things are starting to look hairy, bail.
