Grand Canyon Hiking SenorYermo.com

Length: For practical backpacking purposes, the trail info provided here will apply to the most popular loop trip involving this trail, which is descending from Bill Hall Trail to the junction with Thunder River Trail and continuing down to Surprise Valley. From there it seems the more popular option is to complete the loop clockwise with visits to Thunder River, Tapeats Creek, along the Granite Narrows route to Deer Creek, and then return to Surprise Valley. We estimate this loop variation (which includes a side-hike to Deer Creek Falls) to be just under 30 miles.

Water: If you’re lucky enough to be hiking right after a storm, pothole water can be found on the Esplanade. Other than that you can find perennial water at Thunder River, Tapeats Creek, the Colorado River, Deer Creek, and Deer Creek Spring. We recommend placing a water cache somewhere on the Esplanade for your return hike.  Do not underestimate your water needs along this trail.

Campsites: The Esplanade has at-large camping and you will find many sites there, perhaps the best of which are above the Redwall descent. Surprise Valley also has at-large camping and there are dry, but scenic sites at the east end overlooking the Tapeats gorge and the magnificence of Thunder River. All other camping is in designated sites only which includes Upper Tapeats, Lower Tapeats, and Deer Creek.

Reflections and Attractions: Simply put, there is way too much fun to be had in this area. Enjoy the moonscape surroundings of the Esplanade. Thunder River is Eden on Earth. Tapeats Creek and Deer Creek provide welcomed and picturesque relief from the heat. Don’t miss the exciting hike through Deer Creek Narrows to Deer Creek Falls. Deer Creek Spring is another excellent destination. Exploration possibilities are seemingly endless, and keep your eyes peeled for Anasazi ruins, pictographs, and wildlife.

Warnings and Musings: This area has proven to be lethal in the summer heat, so be prepared, hike smart, seek shade during the intense heat of midday, and stay hydrated. While it may be tempting to do otherwise, respect this area by camping in the designated sites only. The eastern route down Tapeats Creek is much easier than the western route, only be careful crossing the creek which can have dangerous late spring flows. Watch your step through Deer Creek Narrows, a slip here could be fatal. Mice at the Deer Creek camp are plentiful and bold, a contributing factor to the presence of rattlesnakes in the area.