Josie Morris Trail
The Josie Morris Trail is part of the Outlaw Trail system in Vernal, Utah
Overview
The Josie Morris Trail loop is part of the Outlaw Trail system in Vernal, which is fast becoming a hub of OHV riding in Utah. The trail features easy and moderate terrain, and includes several points of interest such as the Josie Morris Cabin and Blue Mountain Plateau.
Trail Overview
The Josie Morris Trail Loop is a system of trails near Dinosaur National Monument. This moderate ride consists mostly of sandy terrain, a bit of slick rock and one or two boggy spots, depending on the season. Riders/operators will get a real Western experience as they roll their tires over red sand and through desert pines. In the northeast corner of the trail, near Cub Creek Road (State Route 149), there’s an opportunity to hop off trail and visit the real Josie Morris’ cabin. Josie was an independent frontierswoman who housed outlaws like Butch Cassidy and lived a rugged, remote lifestyle until the 1960s — and you thought this trail couldn’t get any more Western.
Inspired by Josie’s spirit, riders can then turn south and travel up Bear Mountain Plateau, taking in views of Dinosaur National Monument, slickrock canyons, sprawling sand dunes and untracked wilderness. Enjoy lunch with a view at Point of the Pines Recreation Site before heading back down.
Interactive Trail Map. Click on the icon for each of the obstacles.
Trail Details
Timestamps from Video
Butt Pucker Hill -The first obstacle is a steep, sandy hill. Learn more about it with this Youtube link
ET Rock - ET Rock not only looks like the alien, ET, but is also probably the last place you'll be able to "phone home". Cell service tends to drop off at this point.
Petroglyphs - Well preserved rock art. Remember to leave no trace and to take only pictures.
Crack Petroglyphs - Park your machine and take a short walk to more amazing petroglyphs! Look, but don't touch.
Point of the Pines Viewpoint - Get a 360 degree view of the Outlaw Trail System.
Big Brush Creek Cave - Step below ground and into freezing temperatures.
Dyer Mine - Stop and see remnants of an old copper and silver mine
Accessible By:
- Dirt bikes
- ATVs
- UTVs
- Jeeps and 4x4s
Distance: 40 miles
Trail Difficulty: Moderate
Technical Rating: 6
Trailer: Optional
Max Vehicle Width: No Maximum
How to Get There
The trailhead is located at 40.369611, -109.331342, along the Green River in Jensen, Utah. Follow Highway 40 to the bridge and begin your ride on South Escalante Ranch Road on the bridge’s eastern side.
Need to Know
Because service may be spotty, be sure to bring along a map of the trail system. Screenshot any directions and information you might need regarding the short trip off trail to the Josie Morris Cabin. Bring plenty of water and make sure your vehicle is fully fueled for the journey.
Downloadable Maps here:
Nearby Places to Stay
Just down the street from the trailhead, you’ll find the Outlaw Trail RV Park.
The Josie Morris OHV Trail Loop is also a 20 minute drive from Vernal, Utah.
Nearby Events
The annual Outlaw ATV Jamboree! Riders from all over the Southwest gather in early June each year to get a taste of Utah off-roading for the weekend. In addition to daily rides, there are cookouts, raffles, a night ride and lots of good times. If you’re looking to explore the Outlaw Trail System, take in some of the best off-roading in Utah and make some new friends while you’re at it, there’s no better time to travel to Vernal and eastern Utah.
TRAVEL BUREAU INFORMATION
VISIT DINOSAURLAND
152 E. 100 N.
Vernal, UT 84078
800-477-5558
Visit website
Click here for more OHV trails in this area.
FREE OHV COURSE
Utah requires all OHV operators to complete the free Utah Off-Highway Vehicle Education Course. Operators under the age of 18 shall possess a youth OHV education certificate in order to operate an OHV on public land, road or trail. Operators 18 years of age or older may operate an OHV if they possess an approved adult OHV education certificate. The once-in-a-lifetime course is expected to take less than 30 minutes to complete.
Seasonal
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All Year:
Suitable For
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Couples:
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Families:
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Friends:
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Large Groups:
Accessible By
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Dirt Bike:
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ATV:
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SxS (Side by Side):
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High-Clearance 4x4 (Jeep):
Best Seasons to Ride
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Spring:
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Summer:
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Fall:
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Winter:
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Year-round:
OHV Trail Difficulty
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More Difficult:
Route Type
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Loop:
Services & Nearby Facilities
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Restrooms:
- Facilities: Steinaker State Park
Technical Rating
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7 to 10:
Trail Distance
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10 to 30 miles:
General
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Historic Sites:
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Outdoor Activities:
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Summer Tours:
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Vehicle Tour:
Sustainability
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Dog Friendly:
To Do
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ATV:
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Camping:
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Dirt Bikes:
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OHV/Off Road Driving:
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Scenic Driving:
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UTV:
Trail Features
- Difficulty: Hard
- Distance (mi.): 20
- Parking Type: Parking Lot
- Route Type: Loop
- Trail Traffic: Light
Trail Length
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11 - 20 Miles:
Location
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