Intrepid Trail System – Dead Horse Point Sp

Distance: 9.0 miles Elevation Gain: 500 ft Difficulty: Moderate Type: Loop Surface: slickrock Activity: Hiking Best Season: year-round Typical Time: 3-5 hours Fee: $20/vehicle Dogs: True Permit: False

Intrepid Trail System is Dead Horse Point State Park's dedicated multi-use trail network designed primarily for mountain biking but equally superb for hiking, traversing 9 miles of Kayenta and Wingate sandstone slickrock terrain set back from the canyon rim on the mesa interior. The system offers multiple loop options ranging from 2 to 9 miles, making it adaptable to various fitness levels and time constraints while consistently delivering the canyon country landscape that makes this region extraordinary.

Unlike the rim trails, which follow the mesa edge, Intrepid ventures across the mesa surface through juniper woodland and open slickrock benches, with canyon views appearing intermittently rather than continuously. The route is marked with cairns across the bare sandstone, requiring some route-finding attention in places — a challenge that adds to the sense of adventure. Mountain bikers and hikers share the trail system and generally coexist well, though hikers should be aware that bikes can approach quietly on slickrock. The full 9-mile circuit gains 500 feet across multiple small climbs and descents rather than one sustained ascent. Leashed dogs are permitted. The $20 per vehicle fee applies to all park visitors, and the trailhead is located near the main visitor center with ample parking.