Murphy Loop Trail

Hiking up the Murphy Trail

NPS

Quick Facts

Location:

Island in the Sky, Canyonlands National Park

Significance:

Trail

Amenities

1 listed

Trailhead

A great full-day hike, the Murphy Trail offers outstanding views from atop the Murphy Hogback and White Rim Road. This trail starts at the same trailhead as the moderate Murphy Point Overlook Trail. Pay close attention at the junction.

• Roundtrip Distance: 10.8 mi (17.4 km)
• Time: 5-7 hrs
• Elevation Change: 1,448 ft (441 m)
• Difficulty: Strenuous– Mesa Top to White Rim
• Hike Description: After descending the switchbacks, most hikers travel the loop counter-clockwise: crossing Murphy Hogback with outstanding views, descending the unpaved White Rim Road for a mile, then ascending via a wash through dramatic geologic layers to the switchbacks again.
• Bring: Water (at least 1 L per person, per hour), snacks, sturdy footwear, headlamp, map, and be prepared for, sun, rain, heat, or cold.
• Accessibility: This trail can be rough, uneven, and requires walking up and down a rocky hill and stone steps. It is not accessible to wheelchairs. In winter, there may be snow or icy conditions; we recommend traction devices for hikers.
• Dogs are not allowed on this trail. Service animals are allowed in national parks. What is a service animal?