Ruple Point Trail

From the viewpoint at the end of the Ruple Point Trail, you can see the Green River winding through Split Mountain Gorge.

Dan Johnson

 

Length

4.75 miles one way / 9.5 mile round trip. Not a loop.

Level of Difficulty

Moderate to difficult. Trail may be difficult to follow in some areas.

Trailhead Location

Island Park Overlook on the Harpers Corner Road, 27 miles north of the Canyon Visitor Center

Your Safety

Be prepared for desert hiking: Take a hat, sunscreen, and water. A minimum of 2 quarts of water per person is recommended in the summer.

Let someone know where you're going and when you're due back, especially if you're hiking in a remote area.

Wear comfortable shoes, such as hiking boots or athletic shoes. Open-toed shoes are not recommended.

There is very little shade except at the very end of the trail. The trail is hard to follow as you descend at the end.

Use caution around the cliffs at the end of the trail.

Rules and Regulations

Pets are not allowed on trails or in the backcountry.

Carry out all trash.

Collecting artifacts, fossils, plants, or other objects is prohibited.

Do not feed or approach wildlife.

Description

For most of its length, Ruple Point Trail crosses a rolling terrain filled with sagebrush and juniper. Near the end of the trail, a short descent rewards hikers with a breathtaking views of Split Mountain Canyon and the Green River 2,500 feet (762 meters) below. The National Geographic Trails Illustrated map of Dinosaur National Monument is available from the park bookstore.

 

The hike out to Ruple Point gives just a hint of the scenery that lies at the end of the trail.

Dan Johnson

 

The view at Ruple Point is well worth the four-mile hike out to the point.

NPS PHOTO/Mike Weinstein