Backpack - Deer Ridge, Three Forks, Gray Wolf Loop

Day 1: Starting at Deer Ridge/Slab Camp Creek Trailheads, hike west along Deer Ridge with a climb of 3,000' over 4.5 miles to the edge of Deer Park.  Deer Park is a campground accessible by car (via a long, narrow, winding dirt road with few turnouts) so we will have company.  This is a great place to have a snack or lunch, explore Deer Park, and enjoy the views.  According to the WTA and ONP maps, there is no water here but trip reports state there is a small creek near the Ranger station.  Be safe and bring plenty of water for 9+ miles of hiking. 

When we've had our fill of views, we'll hike steeply down Three Forks Trail for 4 miles and 3200' feet of elevation loss to camp at the lovely Three Forks camp, which is located right along the Grey Wolf River. Hiking polls are recommended as this section could be tough on your knees. Total stats for the day:  8.5 miles with 3040' up and 3360' down, not including any wandering we might do at Deer Park.

Day 2: Cross a sturdy bridge and hike east along the Grey Wolf River trail 5 miles on an up and down route with cumulative gain of 1690' and loss of 2500'.  Along the way we'll pass Camp Tony which is another great spot for a snack.  At the junction with Slab Camp Creek Trail, turn left (northwest) and hike uphill 1200' over 2.75 miles to where we started. Total stats for the day:  7.75 miles. 2900' gain and 2580' loss.

There won't be any snow so no need for micro spikes. For food storage, bring an UR sack or a bear canister. I am bringing an UR sack. Be prepared for potential rain and mosquitos. Temperatures could get down in the 40s at night. Three Forks camp has a privy.

I have purchased a permit for Three Forks at $8.00 per person, so please plan to reimburse me for that.  Leader's permission is required. Please tell me about any backpacks you've done in the past year that have elevations gains and losses of at least 3,000' each day. Please confirm you'll carry at least 2 liters  of water for the 8.5 mile hike the first day.

My expectations for participants are that we will be safe, have fun, and be respectful of each other.  It's fine to stop and take photos along the way. We'll take at least a five-minute break every hour.  

We'll meet at Deer Ridge trailhead, which is right next to Slab Camp Creek trailhead, at 9:30 a.m. If you plan to take the ferry, you'll need to factor that in.  The leader will facilitate carpools one week before the trip begins.