Lower Monitor & Merrimac Trail Loop

The Lower Monitor & Merrimac Trail Loop is approximately 8.9 kilometers (5.5 miles) long. For jogging, it typically takes around 1 hour and 7 minutes to complete, depending on your pace and any stops you make.

This route is rated as moderate for jogging. It features an elevation gain of about 181 meters (594 feet), which adds to the challenge.

Yes, the Lower Monitor & Merrimac Trail Loop is a circular route, meaning you will end up back at your starting point without having to retrace your steps.

Specific trailhead parking information is not provided in the tour data, but as a loop trail, it typically starts and ends at the same point. Given its location near Moab, Utah, parking is usually available at designated trailheads within the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) areas. It's advisable to check local BLM resources for precise parking locations.

The terrain on this trail is typical of the Moab area, likely consisting of dirt paths, slickrock, and possibly some rocky sections. It's suitable for jogging but be prepared for varied surfaces.

The best times to jog the Lower Monitor & Merrimac Trail Loop are generally spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) when temperatures are milder. Summer can be extremely hot, making early morning or late evening jogs necessary, while winter can bring cold temperatures and occasional snow.

Along the route, you'll experience the scenic Monitor-Merimac Trail. You will also pass by Pasture Butte, offering unique desert landscapes and geological formations.

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Lower Monitor & Merrimac Trail, Buttes and Towers / Monitor-Merrimac Trail, W. Courthouse Pasture, Buttes and Towers Trail, and Dinosaur Trail.

Trails in Bureau of Land Management (BLM) areas near Moab generally allow dogs, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. Always pack out pet waste and ensure your dog has enough water, especially in the desert environment.

As this trail is located within a Bureau of Land Management (BLM) area, there are typically no entrance fees or permits required for day use. However, always check the latest regulations on the official BLM website for any updates or specific area restrictions.

For a jogging trip on this trail, it's essential to bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months, as there are no water sources on the trail. Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses), appropriate trail running shoes, and a map or GPS device are also highly recommended.