Deer Spring
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Behind Deer Spring |
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| Deer Creek |
Feeling badly that I had chosen this route for Donna's first backcountry adventure, I agreed to begin our exit a day early. We packed up camp and began our hike out. We started a little later than we'd planned and by the time we got to the spur trail leading to Deer Spring, Deer Creek valley had warmed significantly. We stopped at Deer Spring for a last look and quick break. It was clear at this point that the hike out would be a real challenge as we were still tired from the previous day and it was already hot; Surprise Valley would be a real scorcher. We climbed to a ledge behind Deer Spring and reassessed our plan, deciding to return to the campsite and spend the day recovering as we'd planned originally. This was the best decision we made during our trip.
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Deer Creek Narrows |
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Donna in Deer Creek |
The designated Deer Creek campsite rests beside Deer Creek, just above the Narrows. From this point, there are many available day hiking options: a trail leading from Deer Creek to Tapeats Creek; the short hike back to Deer Spring; unmarked routes into side canyons; and, of course, the trip through the Narrows to Deer Creek Falls. After we returned and established our campsite again, we rested for a bit and then played in Deer Creek for most of the day. I returned to the Narrows section, checking to see if it was as treacherous as it seemed the day before. Without a full pack, the trail still requires attention, but is really no problem. A day of exploring, relaxing, and just taking in the Grand Canyon without the burden of a full pack is highly recommended, particularly in spot as unique and beautiful as Deer Creek.
Created on ... November 15, 2004