Thunder River Loop

Dogs No Dogs

Features Cave · Commonly Backpacked · Geological Significance · River/Creek · Spring · Views · Waterfall · Wildlife

This 10+ mile loop is one of the most astounding hikes in the Grand Canyon because of its two major waterfalls and unique geology of the Surprise Valley. The problem is the logistical hurdle of getting here -- it's only reachable by river trip or by a long backpacking trip from the North Rim.

There are three main possibilities for accomplishing this run: 1) On a raft trip, complete the full loop from Tapeats Creek camp. 2) If you're on a raft trip with rowers who don't want to do the hike, start from Tapeats Creek and have your boats meet you at Deer Creek, thus making it a 7-mile one-way without the Granite Narrows Route return. 3) Hike in from either Thunder River or Bill Hall trailhead, camp at either Deer Creek or Tapeats Creek, and day run this loop. Wilderness permits are required for backpacking, and Grand Canyon river permits are required for boating.

Much of this loop is runnable, if you choose to do it that way.

Here the loop is described starting from the Colorado River at Tapeats Creek, which is how it's most commonly done. Your route may be different depending on how you access the loop.

Follow the Tapeats Creek Trail up along the stream. Continue for just over 2 miles and eventually pass the small Upper Tapeats camping area. You'll then turn left onto the Thunder River Trail.

This trail climbs steeply on a slope above the Thunder River. The canyon views become stunning as you climb, and the headwaters of Thunder River become closer. The river gushes out of a cave high up the canyon walls, with waterfalls below -a a stunning sight! Be sure to catch the side trail to the base of the highest waterfall.

The trail then climbs a bit farther before topping out and continuing across Surprise Valley. Note the slumping buttes of Redwall Limestone. These are evidence of the massive landslide that created this valley millions of years ago. Continue straight at the two junctions (these lead up and out of the canyon to either the Bill Hall or Thunder River Trailhead).

The trail (now the Deer Creek Trail) eventually descends steeply down to the namesake creek. The creek is a beautiful sight with clear water and lots of shade trees.

Follow the trail downstream and past the small camping area. You'll then walk through the Deer Creek Narrows, a stunning but short section of trail. The path stays halfway up on a ledge, with drop offs that may cause unease for those with a fear of heights.

Eventually you'll exit the narrows and have a great view down to the Colorado River. The trail descends to the river, but not before one last highlight -- Deer Creek Falls. This 180 foot waterfall is a great ending to the hike. If you don't have a raft trip meeting you here, however, then it's not the end of the hike for you.

Backtrack through the narrows and locate another side trail across the creek. This is the part that takes some skillful routefinding as you embark on the Granite Narrows Route back to Tapeats Creek. The route traverses cliff bands and rocky hillsides above the river. It is simple hiking for the most part, but some sections require scrambling or picking your way through vegetation. Look for cairns that mark the way.

There is also a high-road alternative: The Granite Narrows - High Route that's a bit longer, but avoids the more exposed cliffs of the low route. The two options rejoin about halfway between Deer Creek and Tapeats.

Expect intense sun and a lot of elevation change over the course of this route. Tapeats Creek and Deer Creek are both good water sources, but should be treated.

Description by Mike Windsor from Outdoor Project, with improvements by Jesse Weber.