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Photo by Jay Mantri on Unsplash
EasyGravel

Murphy Bridle Path

Glendale, Arizona · Maricopa County · City of Phoenix

William John Murphy, who moved from Illinois to Phoenix in 1883, built the Arizona Canal and established the Valley citrus industry in the northern extension of Central Avenue in 1895.

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33.55940, -112.07379
Open in OpenStreetMap
5-Day Forecast

Weather at Murphy Bridle Path

Live forecast for the trailhead. Use it to pack and time your hike.

Avg High111°F
Avg Low93°F
Peak Rain Chance3%
Humidity23%
UV (avg)9
Air Quality58 · Moderate
Today
☁️
Overcast
111°/90°
💧 1%🌬 12mph
5:37 AM7:32 PM
Tue
☁️
Overcast
109°/86°
💧 3%🌬 11mph
5:38 AM7:31 PM
Wed
☁️
Overcast
108°/94°
💧 1%🌬 16mph
5:38 AM7:30 PM
Thu
☁️
Overcast
110°/95°
🌬 14mph
5:39 AM7:29 PM
Fri
🌦
Drizzle
115°/98°
💧 2%🌬 15mph
5:40 AM7:29 PM

Forecast data © Open-Meteo. Refreshed every 6 hours. Always check the most recent forecast before heading out.

About Murphy Bridle Path

William John Murphy, who moved from Illinois to Phoenix in 1883, built the Arizona Canal and established the Valley citrus industry in the northern extension of Central Avenue in 1895.

⚠ Note from contributors: https://www.phoenix.gov/phxtv/phxtv-media/video/5953

What “Easy” Means

Gentle terrain, well-marked. Suitable for all ages and fitness levels.

Difficulty is derived from OpenStreetMap’s Swiss Alpine Club (SAC) hiking scale, trail visibility, surface, distance, and elevation gain. Always verify current conditions before heading out.

What to Pack & Wear

Personalised to this trail’s length, elevation, difficulty, and the live forecast.

👔 What to Wear

  • 👕
    UPF sun shirt (long sleeve)
    Cooler than direct sun on bare skin.
  • 🩳
    Light shorts/skirt
    Loose-fit, breathable.
  • 🧢
    Wide-brimmed sun hat
    Plus a buff/bandana you can wet for cooling.
  • 🕶
    Polarized sunglasses
    Critical for glare from sun + sand/water.

🎒 What to Pack

  • 💧
    Water
    Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
  • 🍫
    High-energy snacks
    A snack for the trail.
  • 🧴
    Sun protection (UV 9)
    SPF 50+ sunscreen, lip balm w/ SPF, sunglasses, sun hat.
  • 🩹
    First-aid kit
    Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
  • 🗺
    Offline map
    Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.

Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.

Trail Safety in Arizona

Trail conditions in Arizona change with weather, season, and fire activity. Closures, washouts, and rerouting are common. Before heading out:

  • Check with the land manager for current conditions and closures
  • Tell someone your plan and expected return time
  • Know your turn-around limits — conditions can change fast
  • Carry the 10 essentials: water, food, navigation, first aid, light, fire, shelter, knife, sun protection, extra clothes

Frequently Asked Questions

How hard is Murphy Bridle Path?

Murphy Bridle Path is rated Easy. Suitable for most hikers including families.

Can I ride a bike on Murphy Bridle Path?

Yes — bicycles are allowed on this trail (designated bike route).

Are horses allowed on Murphy Bridle Path?

Yes — horseback riding is permitted (designated equestrian route).

What is the trail surface on Murphy Bridle Path?

The surface is gravel. Natural surface — sturdy footwear recommended; can be muddy after rain.

When is the best time to hike Murphy Bridle Path?

Arizona has trail conditions that vary by season. Spring and fall usually offer the best mix of temperature and trail conditions. Check the 5-day forecast above for current outlook. Always verify trail status (closures, washouts, fire restrictions) with the local land manager before going.

Who manages Murphy Bridle Path?

Murphy Bridle Path is managed by City of Phoenix. Check the operator’s website for current permits, fees, and restrictions.