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Hike to Murphy Point

Moab, Utah

4.3/5
based on 3 reviews

Details

Distance

3.4 miles

Elevation Gain

320 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Johnathan .

Escape the crowds and enjoy the seclusion on this seldom traveled trail in Canyonlands National Park. An easy and flat trail that will take you to panoramas of the canyons below.

Murphy Point, found in the Island In The Sky district of Canyonlands NP, takes hikers on a mesa that ends at an overlook with sweeping vistas over Murphy Basin, the White Rim, and Green River. If you're looking to get away from the tourists, then head to this quiet and often overlooked trail.

The trailhead is right off the main road to Grand View Point and the parking lot is pretty small, so keep your eyes peeled. At the beginning of the trail you will be hiking through grassland and prairie brush on a flat but sandy trail. Early on you'll pass an old corral that serves as a reminder of the cow herding past.

About a half mile from the trail head and not far past the corral, you will come to a split. The left fork will lead you off the mesa for 4.2 miles to White Rim Road. To reach Murphy Point, stay to the right at the junction and continue on to the sandstone trail.

The elevation gain/loss on this trail is minimal, but there are some short sections where you will be hiking a gradual uphill grade. Regardless, this trail is perfect for beginners or families.

As you continue on, the gravel trail will eventually disappear and you will soon find yourself hiking on sandstone. Keep an eye out for the cairns to lead you the rest of the way. Please do not build new cairns as these could confuse future hikers.

Continue following the cairns until eventually reaching the Murphy Point overlook. From here you will have spectacular vistas of the landscape below.

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Reviews

Like the description says, so uncrowded and beautiful! Easy hike to do and to follow (not get lost). We loved Canyonlands and hope to get back someday soon! The park was our favorite place in Moab!

Nice easy hike to a heady overview of the White Rim and White Rim trail. Would be great for kids, but watch them on the cliff edge!

Bring your dinner and watch the sunset here - it is magnificent. The hike back is very flat and easy and not exposed - so it's fine to do in the dark (headlamp recommended!). You can also get a permit to backcountry camp in the area.

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Catch a Sunset at Green River Overlook

Hike the Aztec Butte Trail

Hike the Gooseberry Trail in Canyonlands

Hike the White Rim Overlook

Night Photography at Mesa Arch

Mesa Arch