Day Trip
Goblin rocks spur imagination

One of two clusters of goblin rocks stands watch on the north cliffs of Second Canyon, near Pinedale, N.M. [Photo by Stewart Byous/Independent]

By Stewart Byous
Staff Writer

GALLUP — Humans of all ages seem to enjoy stretching their imaginations when they look at objects.

Clouds are probably the most frequent objects in which people try to see things; however, the local area offers something else for people to use their imaginations in seeing images: rocks.

True enough, there are plenty of rocks to view around here, but some of the most imagination-jolting rocks in the area can be found just a short drive from Gallup.

In order to find this wonderland of rock formations, head east on U.S. 66 until reaching the intersection of the I-40 frontage road and the Church Rock turnoff, about 8 miles east of 2nd Street and U.S. 66 in downtown Gallup.

Turn left at the intersection and proceed north on N.M. 566. This road goes through the mesas north of town and crosses the Rio Puerco valley, whereupon the road turns east for about one mile before it reaches the intersection of N.M. 566 and Navajo Highway 11.

At this intersection, turn right onto Navajo Highway 11. N.M. 566 continues onto the site of the United Nuclear mine that caused the infamous toxic release back in the '70s.

After turning onto Navajo Highway 11, follow the road south back across the valley before it turns east. A little more than three miles down this road is the intersection with 2nd Canyon Road, which heads south into the mesa country. This intersection is before arriving in Pinedale.

Take 2nd Canyon Road for about five miles and prepare to see some of the largest clusters of goblin rocks in the area. They are on the cliffs to the north of the road.

Visitors to this area have commented on how ancient people must have had a heyday making up stories about how these rocks came to be, for they look like groups of people standing on the side of the cliffs.

There are two large clusters of the rocks actually the products of erosion, the harder rock at the top being more resistant than the lower rock material and a number of isolated forms.

Some people call these hoodoo rocks, but no matter what the name, anyone with a rich imagination and a love of natural beauty will find 2nd Canyon to be unlike anyplace else in the area.

People who choose to visit this area are encouraged to remember to be respectful of the privacy of those who live in 2nd Canyon. The east cluster of goblin rocks is farther away from homes than the other groups and would probably be best for those whose curiosity compels them climb up to the rocks. When in doubt, ask permission.

Be aware that this time of the year, access to 2nd Canyon is limited to the road described above. During the dry months, it is possible to drive completely through the canyon and exit on Burned Maple Canyon Road (or enter it from that direction, east of Pinedale); however, this road is impassable after snow or rain.

After viewing the rocks, turn around and exit the canyon on 2nd Canyon Road if conditions require.