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    Deer Creek to Colorado River Hike

    Difficulty
    This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
    Very Hard
    Duration
    This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
    10-14.5h
    Distance
    This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
    29.5 km
    Elevation
    This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
    1,793 m
    User Ratings
    These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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    Directions to Trailhead

    The Deer Creek to Colorado River hike is a very challenging 29.0 km hike that leads you from the western side of the North Rim of the Grand Canyon down through a canyon to the Colorado River. This hike is recommended over two days with a stop at Deer Creek Camp due to its strenuous nature. The slot canyon at the end of the hike is a highlight! Expect light traffic.

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    Route Description for Deer Creek to Colorado River Hike

    The hike along Deer Creek to the Colorado River is a big challenge, but it’s perfect for the adventurous hikers out there. This route descends a canyon towards the river in the northwestern arm of the Grand Canyon. It’s remote, questionably maintained, a bit technical, and one of a kind. You’ll likely want to split this up over two days with a stay at Deer Creek Camp.

    Come prepared for this challenging hike with lots and lots of water, a water filter, sun protection (it can get very hot on this route in the summer), layers of clothing for colder temperatures, and food. Some sections require hands-on climbing, so gloves may be helpful to have. Additionally, the road to the trailhead can be in poor shape. A high-clearance vehicle is recommended.

    From the trailhead, hike west along the rim of the canyon on Bill Hall Trail. You’ll keep left to dip down over the rim, then traverse along the canyon wall until the trail makes a steep downhill turn. Expect rocky footing. You’ll traverse across a plateau for a long stretch before then tackling the very steep descent into the inner canyon. Pass Cogswell Butte and then make the final trip down along Deer Creek through the slot canyon past the campsite and to the river. The return trip follows the same route.

    Getting to the Deer Creek to Colorado River Hike Trailhead

    The trailhead for the hike along Deer Creek to the Colorado River is on NF 8031.

    Route Information

    • Backcountry Campground

      Deer Creek

    • When to do

      April-November

    • Pets allowed

      No

    • Family friendly

      No

    • Route Signage

      Poor

    • Crowd Levels

      Low

    • Route Type

      Out and back

    Deer Creek to Colorado River Hike Elevation Graph

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    Deer Creek to Colorado River Hike Reviews

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