This is a repeat of one of my all time favorite hikes and places, however, I decided to do it in reverse--counter-clockwise--going to Deer Creek first, then Tapeats Creek, and Thunder River. Mike Burkley and I left at 4AM in order to get an early start down through the Esplanade and Surprise Valley, finally reaching (unfiltered) Deer Spring, Deer Creek, the patio, narrows, and finally the falls. We had to hike back up through the narrows in order to grab our packs and hike several more miles to our first night camp spot and 135 Mile Rapids, where we enjoyed roaring rapids and sandy beaches all to ourselves. The next day we had to move camp less than 2 miles over to lower Tapeats Creek, where we enjoyed lounging around and watching river runners go through the rapids. We had another nice night next to roaring rapids. The next day we hiked up Tapeats Creek, dayhiked up through its narrows before turning upward along Thunder River. We ate dinner there and rehydrated (unfiltered again) before heading up through Surprise Valley and the redwall ascent to the Esplanade for our third and final camp night. It was very serene, chilly, and beautiful that starless night. Our approximate hiking distances (including side hikes) each of the four days: 12, 4, 8, and 6; total vertical was 5200' from rim to river. The last morning we hiked back to the truck and said goodbye to the canyon, but we will definitely be back!
The Western Grand Canyon morning sunlight filters down over distant buttes. The hike down was cloudy and cool as we crossed the Esplanade.
I can't resist another photo of 100 foot tall Deer Creek Falls.
Mike is relieved to be through the Deer Creek Narrows and close to the Colorado River--his first time to touch the river in the Grand Canyon.
Several plunge pools in the middle of Deer Creek Narrows.
Our first camp at 135 Mile Rapids is on a nice sandy beach. The sun is setting on Powell Plateau after a long day of hiking.
Me at the confluence of Tapeats Creek and the Colorado, just above our second camp site.
Day hiking up Tapeats Creek Narrows was new and exciting, with neat falls and geology.
Thunder River falls--up close and personal--a new favorite photo of mine!
A side view of Thunder River where it comes out of the cliff.
Deer Creek Falls Video
Tapeats Rapids Video
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