Last updated: August 22, 2022
Thing to Do
Hike the Desert Voices Trail
NPS Photo
Distance: 1.7 miles (2.7 km) round trip
Elevation Change: Approximately 300 feet (91 meters)
Level of Difficulty: Moderate
Type of Trail: Loop
Trailhead: Split Mountain Area
The Desert Voices Trail offers spectacular views of Split Mountain and several adjacent rock layers. Trail signs describe the area's geology and ecology. There are also many signs that were written and drawn by children. Trail maps of Dinosaur National Monument are available from the park bookstore.
A 0.25 mile (0.4 km) connector trail allows you to combine this with the Sound of Silence loop trail for an even longer hike.
Elevation Change: Approximately 300 feet (91 meters)
Level of Difficulty: Moderate
Type of Trail: Loop
Trailhead: Split Mountain Area
The Desert Voices Trail offers spectacular views of Split Mountain and several adjacent rock layers. Trail signs describe the area's geology and ecology. There are also many signs that were written and drawn by children. Trail maps of Dinosaur National Monument are available from the park bookstore.
A 0.25 mile (0.4 km) connector trail allows you to combine this with the Sound of Silence loop trail for an even longer hike.
Rules and Regulations
- Pets and animals who provide only comfort or emotional support are prohibited on this trail.
- Carry out all trash.
- Collecting artifacts, fossils, plants, antlers, rocks, or other objects is prohibited.
- Do not feed or approach wildlife.
- Biking on trails is not permitted in Dinosaur National Monument.
Your Safety
- There is no shade on this trail.
- Be prepared for desert hiking. Wear a hat and sunscreen. Take water. A minimum of 1 gallon (3.8 liters) of water per person is recommended in summer.
- Temperatures can exceed 100°F (38°C) in summer. To avoid the heat, hike in the morning or evening. Carry a headlamp if hiking near nightfall.
- Let someone know where you are going and when you are due back.
- Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes, such as hiking boots or athletic shoes. Open-toed shoes or sandals are not recommended.
- Watch for wildlife. This is bear and mountain lion country. Your safety depends on your own good judgement.
- All natural areas pose risks. Your safety depends on your own good judgement.
Details
Duration
1-3 Hours
Activity
Front-Country Hiking
Pets Allowed
No
Pets and animals who provide only comfort or emotional support are prohibited on this trail. Per the Americans with Disabilities Act, working service dogs may go wherever their handlers go.
Activity Fee
No
Visitors must pay the park entrance fee or show a valid pass at the Entrance Station or Quarry Visitor Center. There is no separate or additional fee for this activity.
Location
Desert Voices Trailhead
The Desert Voices Trailhead is located in the Split Mountain Campground near the boat ramp on the Jensen, Utah, side of the monument. It is also accessible by a short 0.3 mile (0.5 km) connector trail along the Sound of Silence Trail.
Reservations
No
Season
Year Round
Time of Day
Any Time
Accessibility Information
Trail surface is a mixture of dirt and rock. The trail is minimum of 2 feet (0.6 meters) wide in some areas. There are a few steep areas and some steps.The trail is not wheelchair accessible. While the trail is rugged and may be difficult to traverse for some individuals with mobility disabilities, the terrain does not preclude those who are willing to take on the challenge.
NPS Photo