James Murphy

Mojave Guides
Joshua Tree, California

About me

Murph is originally from Washington but he has spent the last decade climbing in New England and guiding Maine. Like many others today his first climbing experience was in the gym, however, he was lucky enough to have a traditional climbing veteran take him under his wing and outside right away. After several years as a bartender with a climbing habit, he let his passion take over and dove head first into guiding. He’s had the opportunity to climb all over the country, some favorites include Utah, Wyoming, Nevada, Maine, and California. Climbing has even taken him internationally to locations like Malaysia, Vietnam and Thailand. Murphy is a Wilderness First Responder, AMGA Apprentice Rock Guide, and AMGA Certified Single Pitch Instructor

Certifications

James Murphy

Single Pitch Instructor/Apprentice Rock Guide


Reviews

5.0 (99 reviews)

Trip: Joshua Tree Choose Your Own Adventure - Half Day (PM)

With James M. on March 25, 2024

Company: Mojave Guides

We had an amazing half day with Murphy! We climbed and scrambled and laughed. Learned about Joshua Tree creatures and ourselves. Unforgettable!

By Raymond P. on March 26, 2024

Trip: Joshua Tree Choose Your Own Adventure - Half Day (PM)

With James M. on March 13, 2024

Company: Mojave Guides

Spent a fantastic afternoon climbing and scrambling with Murphy, who is super personable and made everyone feel comfortable and at ease. Highly recommended!

By Vidar S. on March 14, 2024

Trip: Joshua Tree Canyons and Corridors - Half Day (AM)

With James M. on March 13, 2024

Company: Mojave Guides

Absolutely amazing! Murphy was the best guide! He challenged us while making us feel comfortable. If we ever make it back to Joshua Tree we will definitely call him!!!

By Sarah M. on March 14, 2024

Trip: Joshua Tree Rock Climbing - Half Day (PM)

With James M. on March 01, 2024

Company: Mojave Guides

By Nicholas M. on March 02, 2024

Trip: Joshua Tree Rock Climbing - Half Day (PM)

With James M. on February 27, 2024

Company: Mojave Guides

My wife Sarah and I had a blast climbing with Mojave Guides. Murphy was friendly and accommodating. We are very novice climbers and Murphy guided us on perfect routes for our experience level and was very helpful and encouraging. We felt safe and well looked after all day. We’d highly recommend Mojave Guides and Murphy especially.

By James C. on February 28, 2024

Trip: Joshua Tree Rock Climbing - Full Day

With James M. on February 24, 2024

Company: Mojave Guides

Great rock climbing with entertaining Murphy who knew how to support and guide our group of climbers with varying skill levels. Tons of fun! Highly recommend!

By Beatrice S. on February 25, 2024

Trip: Joshua Tree Rappelling - Half Day (AM)

With James M. on February 23, 2024

Company: Mojave Guides

Murphy was outstanding. My life was in his hands and he built complete trust quickly

By April S. on February 24, 2024

Trip: Joshua Tree Rock Climbing - Full Day

With James M. on February 17, 2024

Company: Mojave Guides

Great day with lots of variety and a chill and safe vibe!

By James N. on February 18, 2024

Trip: Joshua Tree Rock Climbing - Half Day (PM)

With James M. on February 15, 2024

Company: Mojave Guides

Overall great experience with Murphy from Mojave Guides. He was friendly, awesome with the kids, and was great about safety stuff without seeming overbearing. Rented gear was clean and good quality . Found some climbs that were just right for our ability levels, in an area of the park we never would've found for ourselves. Gave advice when we wanted it, and friendly banter throughout. The kids wanted to go back again today!

By David W. on February 16, 2024

Trip: Joshua Tree Hiking - Half Day (PM)

With James M. on February 03, 2024

Company: Mojave Guides

Very disappointed, there were no Joshua Trees on Mount Bob. ....ABSOLUTELY KIDDING, not about the tree part, but we had a fabulous time. We asked for a "rugged" hike and Murphy delivered. He was also extremely knowledgeable, personable, and encouraging during our climb (Midwesterner here. I'm calling it a climb). 10 out of 10 would do this again and recommend it to any adventure seeker that is unfamiliar with desert territories. Thanks for the memories and the 90s karaoke, Murph!

By Julie S. on February 04, 2024

Trip: Joshua Tree Rock Climbing - Half Day (PM)

With James M. on January 31, 2024

Company: Mojave Guides

Our trip with Murphy was incredible! He took the time to assess our skill level, goals of the climb, and even taught us new skills to utilize. His enthusiasm was contagious and the encouragement he provided was invaluable to our sends. We had a blast climbing with Murphy and are leaving with memories to last a lifetime.

By Samantha C. on February 01, 2024