Last week we repeated a backpacking trip down into the Grand Canyon which we had done several years ago — a “lollipop” loop from the north rim down to Thunder River and Tapeats Creek, along the Colorado River, and up Deer Creek. When we hiked this route the first time back in November 2012, we did it in three days and it felt much too rushed and strenuous. But it was so impressive that we’ve been excited to return — this time with five days to relax and soak in the scenery.
See more photos from our trek below!
The canyon was in full bloom with a variety of wildflowers rivaling that found in summer alpine meadows. These yellow ones were the most prominent in the lower canyon.
8 thoughts on “Backpacking Into the Grand Canyon, Take 2”
Another mighty fine series, Jack! Especially love Canyon Yellows and Deer Creek Narrows.
Jack, you dog! Thunder River is one of my favorite places in the world, and while I’ve been lucky enough to dayhike it from the river several times, I’d love to backpack it and spend more time in that country. And to catch it with all those wildflowers…..
Hey Jackson, yeah this area is so phenomenal… so many little paradise spots in the desert! We were glad to have extra days on this trip to enjoy these spots rather than rushing through like last time. And yeah the flowers were quite an unexpected treat too!
Jack,
I haven’t been to the Grand Canyon in years, but these images make me want to get in my car and head out immediately. I especially want to relax in the Throne Room.
I just happened upon this post in a web search about GC backpacking. I am planning to do this about the same time of year, next year. How did you access the lollipop trail in April? Isn’t the north rim typically closed then? Thanks for any tips you have.
Hi Breezy, if my memory serves me correctly (questionable!) I believe the North Rim visitor center and campgrounds and all that are closed early in the season, but the road that goes to this TH is open. (Make sure you have a map or good directions; the access roads are convoluted and can be confusing!)
Another mighty fine series, Jack! Especially love Canyon Yellows and Deer Creek Narrows.
Thanks David!
Jack, you dog! Thunder River is one of my favorite places in the world, and while I’ve been lucky enough to dayhike it from the river several times, I’d love to backpack it and spend more time in that country. And to catch it with all those wildflowers…..
Hey Jackson, yeah this area is so phenomenal… so many little paradise spots in the desert! We were glad to have extra days on this trip to enjoy these spots rather than rushing through like last time. And yeah the flowers were quite an unexpected treat too!
Oooh, Ahhh, what a lush view of The Grand and thanks for bringing all of us on the couch tour along for the journey. Magnificent!
Jack,
I haven’t been to the Grand Canyon in years, but these images make me want to get in my car and head out immediately. I especially want to relax in the Throne Room.
I just happened upon this post in a web search about GC backpacking. I am planning to do this about the same time of year, next year. How did you access the lollipop trail in April? Isn’t the north rim typically closed then? Thanks for any tips you have.
Hi Breezy, if my memory serves me correctly (questionable!) I believe the North Rim visitor center and campgrounds and all that are closed early in the season, but the road that goes to this TH is open. (Make sure you have a map or good directions; the access roads are convoluted and can be confusing!)