James Murphy
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 InstructorCertifications
James Murphy
Single Pitch Instructor/Apprentice Rock Guide
Reviews
Trip: Joshua Tree Choose Your Own Adventure Day - Full Day
With James M. on April 20, 2026
Company: Mojave Guides
We had a great time! Murphy was an amazing guide and provided great experiences for all of the skill levels in our group.
By Michael C. on April 28, 2026
Trip: Joshua Tree Rock Climbing - Half Day (PM)
With James M. on April 24, 2026
Company: Mojave Guides
Murphy, was an absolute stud of a guide! My wife and I had such a blast learning from him and now feel prepared and confident to top rope safely on our own back home in CO. We cannot stress enough how much we learned and how amazing and fun our experience was. Murphy was an amazing teacher and just overall a great egg.
By Annie B. on April 25, 2026
Trip: Group Half-Day Program
With James M., Taylor O., Emery H., Seth P. on April 14, 2026
Company: Mojave Guides
By Philip H. on April 21, 2026
Trip: Group Half-Day Program
With James M., Taylor O., Emery H., Wendy C. on April 18, 2026
Company: Mojave Guides
I took my 5 year-old climbing with a group of moms and sons, aged 5-12. We went with Mojave guides and they were sooooo good handling the rambunctious group of boys and we all had an amazing, safe time. The guides taught the basics and tailored the climbs for the skill/experience level, for both the kids and adults, and made everyone feel empowered and proud to challenge themselves. They were patient, professional, funny, and skilled. Highly recommend!
By Peggy W. on April 21, 2026
Trip: Joshua Tree Canyons and Corridors - Half Day (AM)
With James M. on April 13, 2026
Company: Mojave Guides
The guided tour was great. Murphy was fantastic as a guide and a person. We did some light scrambling and experienced areas we didn’t know were possible if we were alone. The hike was tailored to our levels of ability. Would highly recommended for people of any ability or experience.
By Sahu H. on April 14, 2026
Trip: Joshua Tree Hiking - Full Day
With James M. on April 10, 2026
Company: Mojave Guides
James is very knowledgeable about the hikes we were on. Especially important with the rock scramble Rattlesnack canyon. Also much appreciate his focus on safety and spotting me in the rock scramble. James also knows a lot about the nature of the park. Trees, flowers, bushes, frogs, lizards. I can see him being really good with young kids. Overall, very customer centric guide.
By Mark S. on April 11, 2026
Trip: Joshua Tree Choose Your Own Adventure - Half Day (AM)
With James M. on April 02, 2026
Company: Mojave Guides
We had such an amazing time thank you Mojave Guides!
By Lindsay P. on April 10, 2026
Trip: Joshua Tree Rock Climbing - Half Day (AM)
With James M. on April 01, 2026
Company: Mojave Guides
It was awesome! Murphy was such an incredible guide! 10 out of 10!
By Sopheary L. on April 08, 2026
Trip: Viator - Beginner Group Rock Climbing in JTNP
With James M. on March 28, 2026
Company: Mojave Guides
By Calista B. on April 04, 2026
Trip: Joshua Tree Rock Climbing - Half Day (AM)
With James M. on April 03, 2026
Company: Mojave Guides
Great climbing!
By Chris M. on April 04, 2026
Trip: Joshua Tree Rock Climbing - Half Day (PM)
With James M. on March 30, 2026
Company: Mojave Guides
By Laurel K. on April 01, 2026