2 liters of water (the trail is dry), sun protection (hat, sunscreen), a map, and sturdy boots with good ankle support for the rocky terrain.

No. Dogs are not allowed on Murphy Point Trail. Service animals are the exception.

Murphy Point Trail

Q: Do I need special gear or trekking poles?

Trekking poles are helpful for the uneven, rocky terrain—especially on descent. In winter, microspikes or traction devices are mandatory; ice will form on the stone steps.

Q: Is this trail safe to hike alone?

Yes. It's an official NPS trail with good foot traffic. Stay hydrated, tell someone your plan, and carry a map. Cell service is unreliable—assume you can't call for help.

Q: When is the best time to go?

May through October. Avoid December through February due to ice. Avoid midday July and August—temperatures on the exposed mesa exceed 90°F.

Overview

About This Trail

This 3.4-mile roundtrip ranks as an easy hike for most fitness levels—mostly level terrain with a modest 142-foot elevation gain. The trail crosses Canyonlands' Island in the Sky mesa past a historic corral, rewarding you with panoramic canyon views at its terminus. You'll see Candlestick Tower, the Green River, and the White Rim Road stretched below. The terrain is rough and uneven with rocky sections and stone steps; not for wheelchairs, and potentially icy in winter.

Highlights

Difficulty Level

Easy hike (mostly level)

Trail Highlights

Panoramic views of Candlestick Tower, the Green River, and the White Rim Road from the mesa top. Historic corral on the route offers a glimpse of Canyonlands' ranching past.

Insider Tips

• The historic corral marks the halfway point—use it as a mental reset. • The views progressively improve as you continue; don't stop early. • Bring trekking poles for the rocky descent; your knees will thank you. • The endpoint offers the best panoramic views—worth the rough terrain.

Best Season to Hike

May to October (late spring through early fall)

Hiking Tips

Bring a minimum of 2 liters of water—the mesa offers no shade.
Traction devices (microspikes) mandatory in winter; ice is a real hazard.
Watch for uneven rocks and stone steps; tighten your boots.
The historic corral is your landmark halfway point—don't miss it.
The views at the endpoint justify the hike; don't turn back early.

Family Info

Can work with older children comfortable with rocky, uneven terrain. No baby strollers. Younger kids may struggle with stone steps. Dogs not allowed (service animals permitted).

Details

Trail Specifications

Distance: 3.4 miles

Elevation Gain: 142 ft

Duration: 2 hours roundtrip for a steady pace. Add 30 minutes if stopping frequently for photos or moving carefully over rocky terrain.

Difficulty: Easy hike (mostly level)

Route Type: Out-and-back

Surface: Rough, uneven desert terrain with rocky sections and stone steps. Not paved.

Getting There

Trailhead: Island in the Sky district, Canyonlands National Park (38.355°N, 109.864°W)

Requirements

Permit Required

Not required

Fees: $30 per private vehicle (up to 15 passengers), $15 per person (hikers without vehicle), $25 per motorcycle. Valid 7 days from entry.

Shuttle Available

Not required

Trail Rules

Dogs: No. Service animals permitted.

Trail Markers: Well-marked official NPS trail

Map/GPS recommended

Trail Features

Conditions & Safety

Water: Dry trail. No water sources available. Carry minimum 2 liters.

Shade: Full sun—the mesa top is exposed. No shade. Wear a hat and sunscreen.

Hazards:

The trail is rough and uneven with a rocky hill that requires ascending and descending stone steps. The mesa offers full sun exposure with zero shade. In winter, ice and snow are present; traction devices are recommended. The trail is not wheelchair accessible.

Accessibility & Family

Accessibility:

Rough, uneven terrain with rocky hill and stone steps. Not wheelchair accessible. Winter snow/ice conditions may require traction devices.

Family Notes:

Can work with older children comfortable with rocky, uneven terrain. No baby strollers. Younger kids may struggle with stone steps. Dogs not allowed (service animals permitted).

Nearby Facilities

Island in the Sky Visitor Center, Island in the Sky (Willow Flat) Campground (30+ sites)

FAQs

Is this hike doable if I'm not super fit?

Yes. It's rated Easy by NPS: 3.4 miles, 142 feet of elevation gain, mostly level terrain. Most people complete it in 2 hours. The rough ground is the main challenge, not the distance.

Do I need special gear or trekking poles?

Is this trail safe to hike alone?

What should I carry?

When is the best time to go?

Can I bring my dog?

🏞️ National Park Service 📝 YourNPGuide Editorial

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