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- Dec 23, 2013
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A week after returning from my Jay Creek trip, I was on the road again heading to Cody, Wyoming for another eight day backpacking trip. The last time that I had been to Cody was almost 30 years ago when I did a backpacking trip into Canoe Lake on the east side of Yellowstone National Park through the Shoshone National Forest. I stayed in Cody on my way home from that trip.
My drive to Cody was going to take me about 7.5 hours. I was hoping to meet up with @TractorDoc and @b.stark that afternoon as Tractordoc was flying in and b.stark was picking him up at the airport. After that, @wsp_scott and @Bob would join us for some dinner.
![01.jpg 01.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/133/133996-3f45284d0d8fa7e9bf640c5cba858527.jpg)
Lonely road. Somewhere between Thermopolis and Cody
![02.jpg 02.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/133/133997-0551a9b8c88b38f96b58b5ca4c9c72df.jpg)
Stopped to get this shot of the red rocks
![03.jpg 03.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134273-6cd4630a401ea72ba61d1382ca83f5cc.jpg)
Home for the night
![09.jpg 09.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/133/133999-202d26bf88c15a8def4adf754c038819.jpg)
Dinner at the WYOld West Taproom
![06.jpg 06.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134274-61d5065c4985ad36a70c3d554fafb240.jpg)
All have arrived
![05.jpg 05.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134001-28123536d7bf1ef09d3a46fdd7361c7f.jpg)
The Kilted Cowboy Scotch Ale. Seems fitting.
![04.jpg 04.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134002-75d55a5b4f3108f83a59f68eb2a92b51.jpg)
Yum!
![07.jpg 07.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134003-3a6b7ec2c1db07faa0940f5f444145ab.jpg)
These ought to get me up the hill - Rocky Mountain Oysters
After dinner, Scott and Bob took off to camp near the trailhead.
![10.jpg 10.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134011-6dc981e967c7fe7e53b5f3fda8e1160b.jpg)
Watching the Cody shoot out after dinner. After the gunfight, I headed back to the hotel room to get a good night's rest so that
I'd be ready to hit the trail in the morning.
And before we go any further down this rabbit hole, @b.stark wrote an excellent trip report that can be found here - Wyoming 2024 -The Hidden Creek Expedition . His report is more factual than the hot mess
that lies ahead should you choose to continue on.
![Hidden_Creek_Final.jpg Hidden_Creek_Final.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134060-00dc77c1334bb961f0ba7d999c1be8a3.jpg)
Trip Overview Map
Our original route had been a near loop that incorporated Deer Creek, Deer Creek Pass, North Fork Butte Creek, Butte Creek, Thorofare Creek, Hidden Creek, North Fork of the Yellowstone, the high country above Thorofare Creek headwaters, then along the ridge, drop down into Fall Creek, and out the South Fork of the Shoshone River. Unfortunately, we couldn't get above the falls on Hidden Creek, so essentially our trip turned into an out and back affair.
Day 1 - Deer Creek Trailhead to upper Deer Creek
Dave and I ate breakfast at the Irma before heading on to the trailhead. Brent had taken off earlier to meet Bob and the outfitter, since they were going to ride horses up to the pass.
We arrived at the trailhead around 8:30 and right after we arrived, Scott and @futurafree showed up after shuttling a vehicle to the Cabin Creek Trailhead.
![11b.jpg 11b.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134061-91fcb66176e2c1b36be512b6a5f1418a.jpg)
Trailhead sign
![12.jpg 12.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134062-853866ccae845537f5d27b8439bdf931.jpg)
Dave, thinking this Outback is one fine vehicle.![Smile :) :)](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)
![13.jpg 13.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134063-250d7885ca15f6dd22b742a84cda4a72.jpg)
Indeed
![14.jpg 14.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134064-20b08f796802d1854a4452599af4d3f5.jpg)
Chris and Scott on the switchbacks right off the trailhead. It was a hot day, and the
first hill was brutal, with little shade and the sun beating down on us. About halfway up
the hill, I thought that I might not make it. Once I got to the top of the switchbacks, I
felt much better and got into a better rhythm.
![15.jpg 15.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134065-7cbf8c4ddc9b7be022f58831d6981c6f.jpg)
Washakie Wilderness Boundary
![16.jpg 16.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134066-1f515903ec246b4216c76236ce228df2.jpg)
Gaining some elevation. View is up the South Fork of the Shoshone River
![17.jpg 17.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134067-fe2683426e1960d65ef36e7996db28d9.jpg)
Chris, manhandling the switchbacks
![18.jpg 18.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134068-61cf77dc229b1fbde42c0580ab608300.jpg)
First good look up the canyon
![19.jpg 19.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134069-30854f6ef8d6e95523a496c366f8db05.jpg)
Many steep drop-offs along sections of this trail
![20.jpg 20.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134070-d894aaea26d739d7cc000edd14cbde24.jpg)
Falls on a side-stream of Deer Creek
![21.jpg 21.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134071-50f5cc8c6802d6aa8f1ed1f5aa14ca3c.jpg)
Looking back down canyon
![22.jpg 22.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134072-a7f5f9b1729dd9f2a1ea36362de44d0e.jpg)
A Mormon cricket
![191.jpg 191.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134076-e394ee6e043e740eb7fe5c2d95e9e09d.jpg)
See that log about thirty feet downstream? I crossed that log so that I wouldn't get my boots wet.
![192.jpg 192.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134077-e5b9c7499bd51c647c9cde8935adfa9e.jpg)
I got stuck in this and couldn't get back to the trail. I tried removing my pack and lifting it over the downfall, but it was no use. I
had to tuck my tail between my legs and retreat back across the log. I ended up getting my boots wet.![Smile :) :)](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)
![23.jpg 23.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134073-8c0396749fe36bda6c9e9051a8b67346.jpg)
Deer Creek
![24.jpg 24.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134074-a55a3a373dbf394443c6365f275295a6.jpg)
Mountain ash
![25.jpg 25.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134075-9d8894ed1d0e9402223ce2add69f9092.jpg)
More Deer Creek
![26.jpg 26.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134078-08884c07d21bcf0e85365bf89e6ed027.jpg)
More tributary falls
![27.jpg 27.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134079-810067e0c8f56d947943e29c060828ec.jpg)
![28.jpg 28.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134080-d942b852f3b323fdd9f1d230e36b3243.jpg)
![29.jpg 29.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134081-2d698c623e437535227fd4935cf93f63.jpg)
Views from along the trail
![30.jpg 30.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134082-8b55bef350bc142edc0d05f3829ac6f0.jpg)
Sulphur buckwheat
![31.jpg 31.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134083-6bdcbf9f4952e25f8e118677b51e50a1.jpg)
![32.jpg 32.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134084-9f9becc8a221bef7167e03cf404ad215.jpg)
A mule and horse from Bob and Brent's outfitter. Who was riding this horse?
![33.jpg 33.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134085-52ae10cc512a696bc673c564c35fa3ab.jpg)
![34.jpg 34.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134086-65921993eaa79d531e20ed4eaa26db55.jpg)
Views from the trail
![35.jpg 35.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134087-146a529a524252682e2cbcec303afbe7.jpg)
![37.jpg 37.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134089-d0218e4a0aaf84fe362580a02bcc35c1.jpg)
Wildflowers
![36.jpg 36.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134088-0cd2fd26e65ed67f3d911836ff90edc6.jpg)
Camp for night one
Once comfortably in my tent for the evening, Dave called to me and said that he had received a message from Brent on his satellite connection that told us not to come down the North Fork of Butte Creek because it was "sketchy." What did sketchy mean? No old horse trail? No good campsites to be had? Too many willows to contend with? bad fishing? I would have preferred the message be sent by smoke signals, but since there are fire restrictions in place, I'll let the techies win this one.![Smile :) :)](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)
Day 2 - Upper Deer Creek to Junction of North Fork Butte Creek with Butte Creek
After the "sketchy" warning, we decided to take the Butte Creek Trail down and meet Bob and Brent where the North Fork flows into Butte Creek.
![38.jpg 38.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134090-0dc2c7969b38fc5c84f5d82a64002e53.jpg)
A deer strolls by near camp in the morning
![39.jpg 39.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134091-c1aceb5d6b4413053f1375719a25dae7.jpg)
Chris, beginning the switchbacks up to Deer Creek Pass
![43.jpg 43.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134092-baa88e28118a4f41021ad65e3b8d6598.jpg)
Monkey flowers along the trail
![40.jpg 40.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134093-59373a6390aec7d2cc80b62a02c852d4.jpg)
The north side of Fingfisher Peak
![41.jpg 41.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134094-b3fece0a1cb33a4f6dc50783bd8ca0b4.jpg)
The Deer Creek Trail
![42.jpg 42.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134095-f1cf9ac87fe57cb6d44836fc704ad6a6.jpg)
First good view of the pass
![44.jpg 44.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134096-acb34617e06263d52f615b9cd2ce6146.jpg)
It just might be scary riding a horse through the sections ahead.
![45.jpg 45.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134097-f4dc5b3736435e6050b59b920415d5f2.jpg)
The logs have been set in place with long rods of rebar hammered into the hillside to
keep the trail from slumping off
![46.jpg 46.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134098-4eaba4234b9bcdf419cc4bb8d563274d.jpg)
Seems like we are almost there.![Smile :) :)](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)
![47.jpg 47.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134099-e0478aa6993f10d6fad7865eb0cea286.jpg)
View back down the canyon
![48.jpg 48.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134100-da5abdfa628abf20a64a167e6c0ee5e2.jpg)
Deer Creek Pass
![49.jpg 49.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134101-47f72482beaf36799151c9c7c42a438c.jpg)
Chris waiting at the pass
![54.jpg 54.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134102-b9ba219b1ea0ff1f58bd9489d2ca96f9.jpg)
Scatman crawling to the pass
![55.jpg 55.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134103-9748443abc655cd1300c07d02f1f20fb.jpg)
Help! I've fallen and I can't get up.
I couldn't lift my left leg to get a proper turtle on its back pose because I would have
rolled down the hill.![Smile :) :)](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)
![51.jpg 51.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134104-8d899f721e3d07309e3899cc38100fbc.jpg)
Leaving the Washakie Wilderness and entering the Teton Wilderness
![50.jpg 50.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134105-6c2acd8bc96a9a348fb9d9a6df568d17.jpg)
View to the west from the pass
![52.jpg 52.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134106-b7fff36bcabde194d549357a01a77c1d.jpg)
Scott arrives at the pass
![53.jpg 53.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134107-5ea72ace95b77a3368e2bb449377d2d4.jpg)
Dave arrives at the pass
south
east
north
west
As promised, the bikini pose in all cardinal directions if I made it to the pass. Sorry @Rockskipper, no real bikini.
![61.jpg 61.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134112-b0c5735acbd3f78e03f921009c6947c1.jpg)
@Bob and @b.stark disappeared over this hill to sketchiness.
![60.jpg 60.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134113-832031c34e55d931d3ac69d48cbde621.jpg)
The Thorofare Buttes
![62.jpg 62.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134114-33cc1b903010434119bd1ee81fd26ee5.jpg)
A horse highway heading down this side of the pass
![63.jpg 63.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134115-dd4cb8686c03cc9c578f6964aef63650.jpg)
A natural arch on the east end of the Thorofare Buttes
![64.jpg 64.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134116-8c0c6cd050bf87e167332df9cae18f84.jpg)
One of my favorite pictures of our trip
![65.jpg 65.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134117-6863c6db09f0e435cf359493d2c70e20.jpg)
Time to purify some water at the headwaters of Butte Creek
![66.jpg 66.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134118-95dfd9651e848712ec082118c74dca91.jpg)
A look back at the pass
![67.jpg 67.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134119-671b0e6503ce950bb18a162d8a9c7ada.jpg)
Bear track on the trail
![68.jpg 68.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134120-eaa70ecd7ae4c6e110c8d52374789560.jpg)
Old signpost at the junction with the Woody Creek Trail
![69.jpg 69.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134121-5156375698ca88b32b28ac12c81570b1.jpg)
The basin above is know as The Cathedral
![70.jpg 70.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134122-c30bcc44d755a2291b6966ba13d5d649.jpg)
Butte Creek
![71.jpg 71.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134123-fb15e053ef0e891dda0ed2e1b11824aa.jpg)
Where are @Bob and @b.stark ?
![72.jpg 72.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134124-0284fc7a9279aeee5d5ed73e9304537d.jpg)
Outfitter's camp on North Fork Butte Creek
![73.jpg 73.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134125-3e387f77627d5029740401531589cad5.jpg)
Interesting
![74.jpg 74.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134126-a47c9d785cc007903e8e53ab033d9e87.jpg)
@wsp_scott and @futurafree crossing Butte Creek to get to our campsite
![75.jpg 75.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134127-a066a8a8872a25dc07bacea3f2aee709.jpg)
Where the Hell are we?![Smile :) :)](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)
![76.jpg 76.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134128-5eaf9b2b628c294d976c32b943eaf278.jpg)
Ledge stonecrop
![77.jpg 77.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134129-8bcd4d0972aaef7ef7e072c3f9268294.jpg)
My tent
Day 3 - Junction of Butte Creek and North Fork Butte Creek to Outfitter's Camp up Hidden Creek
We were originally going to camp at the mouth of Hidden Creek, but the overall sketchiness changed our plans.
![78.jpg 78.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134130-16170f8001fe08f0c86d24bfca6d9fc1.jpg)
A deer yesterday and a squirrel today to start the morning off
![79.jpg 79.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134131-d54b7f313bd1c3371a24afabd7cf40e1.jpg)
Heading down Butte Creek again
![80.jpg 80.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134132-540ab1d59cf13f130a80d88174f7a818.jpg)
Getting close to the Thorofare Creek Trail
![81.jpg 81.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134133-d2450678ef61ae016da2203b4d2f42e4.jpg)
Thorofare Creek
![82.jpg 82.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134134-877086709a611edb2c31f98f1793b13c.jpg)
![83.jpg 83.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134135-d1d54aa96d57aad4dd93d34178620baa.jpg)
The old Cabin on Pass Creek
At this point, we saw someone heading up the Thorofare Creek trail and Scott called out to him. It turned out to be @Georgia Yankee who was looking for us. He joined us at the cabin for a group shot.
![84.jpg 84.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134136-3464abe18c76964ab2870c2134e631fb.jpg)
Group shot at the cabin - @b.stark , @futurafree , @Georgia Yankee , @wsp_scott , @Bob , @TractorDoc , and Scatman
![85.jpg 85.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134137-4d69aecc18217e53ccfe0a3f648bc435.jpg)
Back on Thorofare Creek
![86.jpg 86.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134138-d836d33e753ade9b88b92b2cc4da37d4.jpg)
Heading towards Hidden Creek
![87.jpg 87.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134139-53c1c2613feb78d58c017279269b1b7d.jpg)
Hidden Creek cuts through the "V" in the ridge
![88.jpg 88.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134140-6319a003eb11c48857262fc55de0df51.jpg)
@Georgia Yankee and a bear box near the mouth of Hidden Creek
![89.jpg 89.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134141-9ef5ef3534c8808cbf9b7fed17cbb9d1.jpg)
@wsp_scott crossing Thorofare Creek
![90.jpg 90.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134142-7d706f0899083e7ab159d309b9173135.jpg)
@Georgia Yankee showing us all how easy the crossing is
![91.jpg 91.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134143-7d4d3b2f7fe440f171fe623ac17838fc.jpg)
Steep switchbacks going up the hill on the first part of the Hidden Creek Trail
![92.jpg 92.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134144-90dca5e087c528f40d99c41a11b8b25e.jpg)
Dave and Chris on the switchbacks. I think they are thinking, "Get out of the way
slowpoke!"
![93.jpg 93.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134145-078571482879788e90c804aab3de0e68.jpg)
A deer on the hillside runs away from us
![94.jpg 94.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134146-b9d13b532d82f79bb457b406a3283922.jpg)
Brent and Jim making their way through this neat little valley before climbing again
![95.jpg 95.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134147-569a3fbac6f54f720eb5c4b96a053e98.jpg)
Looking back down on that small valley
![96.jpg 96.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134148-f0677e68dd2a3df3830f5b4b954bb1f4.jpg)
Geranium
![97.jpg 97.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134149-7ea223ab336534063288d1e591db53a9.jpg)
The mountain directly ahead (unnamed peak 10,770) is the divider between the east and west branches of Hidden Creek
![98.jpg 98.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134150-ad017635b36a7196eb8d4fdeb6b0a46a.jpg)
Monkey flower
![99.jpg 99.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134151-19af1693ed0e467fbe83d27ad76057a7.jpg)
Another sign near the outfitter's camp
![100.jpg 100.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134152-2b7142ca1474fcaab50ef8ab319485cf.jpg)
Dinner time at the outfitter's camp. This is where we learned the story of the soon to be legendary Rooster Allen Seacrest.
![101.jpg 101.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134153-c543e398f04b205793ce05e075eb9a00.jpg)
GoPro - Take a picture!
Day 4 - Outfitter's Camp on Hidden Creek to the end of the Second Meadow on Hidden Creek
This was a short day which gave us time to try and get to the waterfall at the end of the valley
![102.jpg 102.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134154-d237ddab3a80d755eb9b8076fbb8b42a.jpg)
First view of Hidden Creek
![104.jpg 104.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134156-18d892d1f513321141d74e398a9e7a98.jpg)
Something is picture worthy after fording Hidden Creek
![103.jpg 103.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134155-306a6e84d995e725e705dab083a46212.jpg)
Yellows monkey flower
![105.jpg 105.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134157-bb65791cae5be846d3d29c12f3db26a6.jpg)
Another small arch above
![106.jpg 106.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134158-21f90b33d169c8c784e35be51564dc94.jpg)
Making our way through the first meadow
![107.jpg 107.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134159-b979dd2b78dfb3c07db7295827d65b14.jpg)
Grizzly scat
![108.jpg 108.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134160-2d5629bf4c936c5cc3d21f7686e5a073.jpg)
And guess who is bringing up the rear?![Scatman :scatman: :scatman:](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)
![109.jpg 109.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134161-6ab6befb4e79b96a57c273cb6f336d51.jpg)
Mountains along east side of Hidden Creek Canyon
![110.jpg 110.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134162-9b86ca565bce6a390396e73126257df7.jpg)
Last break before reaching our campsite
![111.jpg 111.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134163-398f9ed7054dd3fde293f68d6780cbf5.jpg)
Making our way through the second meadow
![112.jpg 112.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134164-2f0efa760dd6d809a34f5a65c7f8cf09.jpg)
U turn on Hidden Creek
![113.jpg 113.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134165-fe7ff3ee5444f974eff92a37c612abff.jpg)
Group shot
![114.jpg 114.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134166-79fe4c54bfa6eb789caddaaff6cf2615.jpg)
![115.jpg 115.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134167-c87a1ed8e443f8abd712ab83cdc4cd2b.jpg)
Hidden Creek Falls
![116.jpg 116.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134168-4926e99e50dc457e059c326d60c9c896.jpg)
Once last stream to cross to get to camp
![117.jpg 117.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134169-c587937bb4169ef7eb2c49e67fd68286.jpg)
Our campsite. It rained for a short time, but once it stopped some of us headed for the falls
![118.jpg 118.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134170-0c087b26af5d1d86069786a1a9aa2574.jpg)
A police car moth on some ragwort
![119.jpg 119.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134173-3202de942df7a7bce33e5283245b13b5.jpg)
Making our way towards the falls between the willows and the forest
![120.jpg 120.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134174-175dadc8fd7875681235212766d27a02.jpg)
Hidden Creek
![121.jpg 121.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134175-e1f3c91f96f299a76b30430c40968481.jpg)
Another taste test. Yep, grizzly.![Hungry :hungry: :hungry:](/addedsmilies/hungry.gif)
![123.jpg 123.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134176-c09951c87a844446f1de27102b3164fe.jpg)
No getting up the cliffs here
![124.jpg 124.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134177-6e53b55e129cee96624452a80c6f7f4e.jpg)
@futurafree crossing Hidden Creek
![125.jpg 125.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134178-d6c47750bd7337e67004343af455b462.jpg)
Zoomed in on the mist from the falls
![126.jpg 126.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134179-6c9c57a1f79530f839ef4857225ce8f1.jpg)
More wonderful paintbrush just above the creek
![127.jpg 127.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134180-7f2fe2bf0a3eccacd6b44e8ceaceb3db.jpg)
Remember the boulder in Indiana Jones?![Big Grin :D :D](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)
![127b.jpg 127b.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134181-ab5017d8d8a42aba7e5fa50d19d4059f.jpg)
Columbine
![128.jpg 128.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134182-c83620ce5f686bc65190356f814886ef.jpg)
A tall column on the west side of Hidden Creek
![129.jpg 129.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134183-2d067f0ba32d1ea370955d2eb44d504d.jpg)
Good flow to the creek
![130.jpg 130.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134184-ca4c0899d2323046adce61433768c214.jpg)
At the base of the cliff band I ran into a game trail
![131.jpg 131.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134185-8b1671a65588e23c166d76f7e2a82426.jpg)
Straight down to the creek
![132.jpg 132.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134186-7864dc454b9b0b5349063278d5ec3f3c.jpg)
Butt pucker time at this point as I try to round the bend to get to the waterfall
![133.jpg 133.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134187-fa1f4c07c4e1ce707887b0a8b18d4b5a.jpg)
Don't like the loose rocks
![134.jpg 134.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134188-6c36e3c7a19201c178d235eb85ba58b1.jpg)
![135.jpg 135.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134189-f77cccc2f89dade79644d2e65bab4d79.jpg)
Made it to the falls
![136.jpg 136.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134190-abb1e410659ebfda8b8b2e5366c25d01.jpg)
Dave and the column on our way back down
![137.jpg 137.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134191-165fea9f64e64e86f6b71b7ae0cdddb9.jpg)
Very steep at this point as we try to make our way back down to the creek
![138.jpg 138.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134192-6d93df8e4f8153277219e5d00823b183.jpg)
Back on the creek
![139.jpg 139.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134193-37b201b5712ea805610a176beee34e6d.jpg)
Looking down Hidden Creek
![140.jpg 140.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134194-9ac7e730b1776cc660ba6d2c4e7e0e74.jpg)
More columbine
![141.jpg 141.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134195-5c31276045640df8a1aa27baac85bb2b.jpg)
Flies on cow-parsnip
![142.jpg 142.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134197-d07f07f8fcf3b3ba43f94c1a26fbced6.jpg)
Last look at the falls
![143.jpg 143.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134198-ceb0b42c0de240e215bf0db850f480ff.jpg)
Some willows to contend with on our way back to camp
![144.jpg 144.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134199-19af2098a905016be32664c71f74bf5f.jpg)
Dave and the falls
![145.jpg 145.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134200-9be97fab608e66dc594b4943ca60ca11.jpg)
![146.jpg 146.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134201-c24ef46f5c900ba5c05032a69cfecfd5.jpg)
![147.jpg 147.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134202-1ce071941aead0e5588406f98f3ab749.jpg)
Dinner time
![149.jpg 149.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134204-3faf4cb8de4302f15421a2d2dd063bb3.jpg)
Meeting of the brain trusts
![148.jpg 148.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134203-acf5c75eec85885c9cccf7888fd1bcba.jpg)
Camp
Day 5 - Upper Hidden Creek Meadow to Thorofare Creek
@Georgia Yankee would be leaving us today to continue his adventure to upper Thorofare Creek, Majo Pass, North Fork of the Yellowstone, Younts Peak, and beyond. It was a pleasure meeting you Jim and hope that someday we can meet on the trail again.
![150.jpg 150.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134205-ef68ba66e7d6f495dbcde199a59b6fbf.jpg)
Sunrise on Hidden Creek
![151.jpg 151.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134206-b6bd4d3a1beeb75402a416a1075699b6.jpg)
Sulphur paintbrush
![152.jpg 152.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134207-4e1fb68e41ef95bf1170ac81e6a66e41.jpg)
Back the way we came
![153.jpg 153.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134208-0dd6be2991a7f6fbda595ff427e4aa3d.jpg)
Unnamed peak 10,770
![154.jpg 154.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134209-6f927e15d6844cb65ae6c06e67eaa085.jpg)
@Bob , finding the optimal crossing point
![155.jpg 155.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134210-72cfe33edb959e82c209f9bba7d133a3.jpg)
A quick break back at the outfitter's camp
![156.jpg 156.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134211-2731a3434090b666b128b31e346eda2c.jpg)
Petrified Ridge in the distance. Rumor has it someone wants to return to explore that ridge next year.![Thinking :thinking: :thinking:](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)
![157.jpg 157.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134212-03b192ff895f3d2bedb3fbaedff3bfec.jpg)
Dave passing through the pretty little valley before dropping down to Thorofare Creek
![158.jpg 158.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134213-2af51d2831d6ba585211932e0b57a6a5.jpg)
A new grizzly track on the trail since we came in
![159.jpg 159.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134214-7037ca3bcd86618d80abc2581eb88196.jpg)
Thorofare Creek
![160.jpg 160.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134215-c99e71a28e3ac401e84dd0b07db4f04d.jpg)
A stonefly. These guys were all over my tent.
![161.jpg 161.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134216-46d52f798e4a9d12158d1d65c4519f90.jpg)
Ducks swimming upstream on Thorofare Creek
![162.jpg 162.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134217-42f140bb3bf96a06a8cbcee69df259c1.jpg)
Petrified Ridge to the north
Later in the evening we would have a nice lightning and thunderstorm show.
Day 6 - Thorofare Creek to Upper Butte Creek
@b.stark , @futurafree , and @wsp_scott would be leaving the group today so that they could get out a day earlier. They are wonderful lads and I hope I get to share a trail and a campsite with them in the future.
![163.jpg 163.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134218-896fdf69519d7b68e1fd99d33ca2689c.jpg)
Morning sun on Thorofare Creek
![164.jpg 164.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134219-fb3a9c39dd7da2b613f049e2e5c61763.jpg)
Not exactly sure what this guy is doing, but his camping partner could not catch their horse. Every time he would get close, the
horse would run away. It was wearing a bell, so as it ran you'd hear tinker, tinker, tinker. This made me laugh out loud to watch.
Soon karma would get me back for being amused by his misfortune.
![165.jpg 165.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134220-065f0cd1f0fae002e03d7d19316bc2fe.jpg)
Muddy Pass Creek flowing into clear Thorofare Creek
![166.jpg 166.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134221-de86c4be4db800ee7a6769770484d8a9.jpg)
Bear sign
![167.jpg 167.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134222-8831f3a75829288fb35924f69b8bc50a.jpg)
Back on Butte Creek
![168.jpg 168.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134223-f802c4699aa8ce668506bd4580397516.jpg)
Butte Creek
![169.jpg 169.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134224-7a7e9d9b1ff08aa0dda31671efd4cc1a.jpg)
Fireweed
Not long after they above picture was taken, e reached North Fork of Butte Creek (Sketchy). @TractorDoc crossed and I followed. As I approached the opposite bank, I stepped on a wet rock with my right foot. I then went to reach out with my left foot to step on the bank when my right foot slipped off the wet rock. I put my leg down into the creek only to encounter another very slick rock. I went down fast and hard and stuck my right arm out without even thinking about it. As soon as I hit I felt immediate pain in my right arm. I knew right away that I had broken something. My wrist? My forearm? Both? If I had been thinking I would have had Bob or Dave snap my picture. Scatman down! But I was too busy curled up in a ball of pain to think about that at the moment. I eventually got up and adrenaline carried me through the rest of the day. I also took less pictures as it hurt to remove my camera from the shoulder strap clip. I did manage to take some though.![Smile :) :)](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)
![170.jpg 170.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134225-a717726e5945e3dffce96a7eb8f5380e.jpg)
![171.jpg 171.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134226-577fcd02ad9298f6e04adae23bccf3d7.jpg)
Mule train heading in to set up the outfitter's camp on Hidden Creek. This was the same outfitter that took Bob and Brent to the
top of Deer Creek Pass on day one.
![172.jpg 172.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134227-f8719124630178ac0576b6d06f4a38d0.jpg)
Fireweed on the hillside beneath the dead trees
![173.jpg 173.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134228-0ceaa80d85d428024de24e2fbea7bccd.jpg)
Back at the Thorofare Buttes
![174.jpg 174.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134229-0b7437c40d099b95dcc775391702098e.jpg)
Campsite for the night
Day 7 - Upper Butte Creek to Upper Deer Creek
We had a grizzly bear come through our camp in the night.
![174b.jpg 174b.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134230-13a2a16b8facb1829b3813a161f8dc95.jpg)
Our visitor last night. Its prints were over the top of our boot prints in camp
![175.jpg 175.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134231-f832f1b9c10e1c6803442f6448823833.jpg)
Deer Creek Pass once again
![176.jpg 176.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134232-8424a7c1b6714610d47c1117e95fcbf0.jpg)
![176b.jpg 176b.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134233-c4e174194924debe8a9eea6da962e09e.jpg)
Horse remains
![177.jpg 177.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134234-b9824c927af5a3e4b555182cccb91de6.jpg)
Bob and Dave approaching the pass
![178.jpg 178.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134235-9625734a0258419ca9c10f7b2103a2e6.jpg)
Bob on the pass. It was really windy on this side of the pass
![179.jpg 179.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134236-cf36d09cb9007d3a7e50d40712a9118b.jpg)
Dave on the pass. Ground squirrels were plotting his demise at this point.![Smile :) :)](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)
![180.jpg 180.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134237-a0ea93893b4433a3cbac1db2b19da661.jpg)
The main culprit
![181.jpg 181.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134238-b8da743ed8991712bfabb7a4a3495d2d.jpg)
Down the other side
![182.jpg 182.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134239-c6b20efc50baacc56af99f44b966fe06.jpg)
Bob, thinking how his horse made it through this section
![183.jpg 183.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134240-d9b5c341f6a6136ff2bdb3fad8506e85.jpg)
Deer Creek
![184.jpg 184.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134241-22b766f3ba5081dbf0ae6b30558124c5.jpg)
Getting chilly as a cold front moves in
Day 8 - Upper Deer Creek to the Deer Creek Trailhead.
All downhill from here.![Big Grin :D :D](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)
![185.jpg 185.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134242-2fade1e22832d43a77db953d74db415c.jpg)
Woke up in the clouds. Everything was soaking wet.
![185b.jpg 185b.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134243-b4c05261ec1a09123db5c20a292c0af3.jpg)
Hand and wrist swollen this morning
![186.jpg 186.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134244-f998d5774df05524ee267f9b35dfd7f8.jpg)
This bear lead us almost all the way down the trail to the trailhead
![187.jpg 187.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134245-ac668fdf5fe6aa7c19cfded6ddf5737c.jpg)
Walking out of the clouds
![188.jpg 188.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134246-477de9be0c449e02bb6857643d893e1a.jpg)
This guy is 80 years old, carries an external frame pack and went over Deer Creek Pass to The Cathedral. On his way back down
when we ran into him - very inspirational.
![189.jpg 189.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134247-dfdc6453011352fbc29200b8872e013b.jpg)
These are what got me up the hill on day one - fresh raspberries.
![190.jpg 190.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134248-fc79ae711b238ad4f250b0447c3be574.jpg)
Can just make out the valley in the distance where the trailhead is located
![193.jpg 193.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134250-a46fd9606052b60e43c1f869caa63684.jpg)
The bear is still leading the way
![194.jpg 194.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134251-3d44affde9891586b0dbf050a99875a7.jpg)
Uphill again?![Smile :) :)](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)
![195.jpg 195.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134252-3031abb4216d11fc2229e69ad44b3947.jpg)
Falls that we stopped at on day one
![196.jpg 196.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134253-d7340177396834af7b14d06d3b223bd6.jpg)
![197.jpg 197.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134254-3c0b268820d18d0db10f1d400bfc318a.jpg)
![198.jpg 198.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134255-e20a9a6ff12ddd4fb34c86fa9ad0ae11.jpg)
![199.jpg 199.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134256-63dc76267c399e509ac9ad07b86f3857.jpg)
I just loved these shots of the grizzly prints on the trail. It turned off at the top of the switchbacks on the last hill to descend before
the trailhead
![200.jpg 200.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134257-7a4ae61d68af4515795a09fc7ba2a097.jpg)
Bob, leaving the canyon
![201.jpg 201.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134258-d56283646d4caf186285985f06b12ddb.jpg)
The South Fork of the Shoshone River below
![202.jpg 202.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134259-f1e680cba112445a2f5b1b4a0be11f78.jpg)
The Sube! And the eighty's year old car (white one)
![202b.jpg 202b.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134260-0e370daccec61c54dea329801500aeee.jpg)
The last switchback
![203.jpg 203.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134261-c2e9af9f1e43b5171cab2049649c8bed.jpg)
Trail end group shot
![204.jpg 204.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134262-577f1be712632d6280aae82f3e1d4979.jpg)
Celebrated at the Cody Steakhouse
![205.jpg 205.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134263-e0c44ada478f7e14fda97888546873fa.jpg)
Enjoying a 24 ox. medium rare T-bone
![206.jpg 206.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134264-3ed8370f659b0e0d1257322f88f01565.jpg)
Along with a Jeremiah Johnson Mountain Man Scotch Ale. Quite good I might add.
![207.jpg 207.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134265-a9d621e63eb71ab93db17eb19b6b4ab6.jpg)
It was now time to go get the arm checked out
![208.jpg 208.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134266-964109e8aa41030e834058675dfc9272.jpg)
I liked this image when they took me back to X-ray my wrist and forearm
![210.jpg 210.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134267-11c9905f43d3e50fab090a764f043134.jpg)
Broken wrist is the verdict
![209.jpg 209.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134268-f81b40c4a53597de0a4c9c072fa05ef8.jpg)
They told me to make an appointment with an orthopedic specialist when I got back to Salt Lake
![211.jpg 211.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134269-0dcd24e09dba0eeca965ba86c81433b1.jpg)
We had a day to kill in Cody before Dave flew out, so we did some shopping and had a beer or two.
![212.jpg 212.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134270-02df710f23e430b0cd401d67102e9a66.jpg)
@Rockskipper , I may need some help affording these 25,000 dollar boots that commemorate
Yellowstone National Park's 150th anniversary. I promise I will pay you back.![Wink ;) ;)](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)
![213.jpg 213.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134271-0ff23bedffe95bf544e0b46a7b9e7e3b.jpg)
After dropping Dave off at the Cody airport, this sunrise greeted me on the way to Thermopolis.
![214.jpg 214.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134272-5d926e4d1ef48a3a020678566f956621.jpg)
I made an appointment with an orthopedic specialist when I returned to SLC and he confirmed the broken wrist and then put me in
a custom made brace for the next four weeks. He told me that he would put me in a cast instead if I was going to be stupid. I told
him that I'd be a good lad with my right wrist. Does anybody on here believe that?![Big Grin :D :D](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)
Well, even with the wrist situation, it was a fun trip. I was a little disappointed that we couldn't complete the original route, but hey sometimes that just happens. I would definitely recommend Hidden Creek to anyone who is interested.
The End.
My drive to Cody was going to take me about 7.5 hours. I was hoping to meet up with @TractorDoc and @b.stark that afternoon as Tractordoc was flying in and b.stark was picking him up at the airport. After that, @wsp_scott and @Bob would join us for some dinner.
![01.jpg 01.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/133/133996-3f45284d0d8fa7e9bf640c5cba858527.jpg)
Lonely road. Somewhere between Thermopolis and Cody
![02.jpg 02.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/133/133997-0551a9b8c88b38f96b58b5ca4c9c72df.jpg)
Stopped to get this shot of the red rocks
![03.jpg 03.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134273-6cd4630a401ea72ba61d1382ca83f5cc.jpg)
Home for the night
![09.jpg 09.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/133/133999-202d26bf88c15a8def4adf754c038819.jpg)
Dinner at the WYOld West Taproom
![06.jpg 06.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134274-61d5065c4985ad36a70c3d554fafb240.jpg)
All have arrived
![05.jpg 05.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134001-28123536d7bf1ef09d3a46fdd7361c7f.jpg)
The Kilted Cowboy Scotch Ale. Seems fitting.
![04.jpg 04.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134002-75d55a5b4f3108f83a59f68eb2a92b51.jpg)
Yum!
![07.jpg 07.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134003-3a6b7ec2c1db07faa0940f5f444145ab.jpg)
These ought to get me up the hill - Rocky Mountain Oysters
After dinner, Scott and Bob took off to camp near the trailhead.
![10.jpg 10.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134011-6dc981e967c7fe7e53b5f3fda8e1160b.jpg)
Watching the Cody shoot out after dinner. After the gunfight, I headed back to the hotel room to get a good night's rest so that
I'd be ready to hit the trail in the morning.
And before we go any further down this rabbit hole, @b.stark wrote an excellent trip report that can be found here - Wyoming 2024 -The Hidden Creek Expedition . His report is more factual than the hot mess
![Hot :hot: :hot:](/addedsmilies/hot.gif)
![Hidden_Creek_Final.jpg Hidden_Creek_Final.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134060-00dc77c1334bb961f0ba7d999c1be8a3.jpg)
Trip Overview Map
Our original route had been a near loop that incorporated Deer Creek, Deer Creek Pass, North Fork Butte Creek, Butte Creek, Thorofare Creek, Hidden Creek, North Fork of the Yellowstone, the high country above Thorofare Creek headwaters, then along the ridge, drop down into Fall Creek, and out the South Fork of the Shoshone River. Unfortunately, we couldn't get above the falls on Hidden Creek, so essentially our trip turned into an out and back affair.
Day 1 - Deer Creek Trailhead to upper Deer Creek
Dave and I ate breakfast at the Irma before heading on to the trailhead. Brent had taken off earlier to meet Bob and the outfitter, since they were going to ride horses up to the pass.
We arrived at the trailhead around 8:30 and right after we arrived, Scott and @futurafree showed up after shuttling a vehicle to the Cabin Creek Trailhead.
![11b.jpg 11b.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134061-91fcb66176e2c1b36be512b6a5f1418a.jpg)
Trailhead sign
![12.jpg 12.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134062-853866ccae845537f5d27b8439bdf931.jpg)
Dave, thinking this Outback is one fine vehicle.
![13.jpg 13.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134063-250d7885ca15f6dd22b742a84cda4a72.jpg)
Indeed
![14.jpg 14.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134064-20b08f796802d1854a4452599af4d3f5.jpg)
Chris and Scott on the switchbacks right off the trailhead. It was a hot day, and the
first hill was brutal, with little shade and the sun beating down on us. About halfway up
the hill, I thought that I might not make it. Once I got to the top of the switchbacks, I
felt much better and got into a better rhythm.
![15.jpg 15.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134065-7cbf8c4ddc9b7be022f58831d6981c6f.jpg)
Washakie Wilderness Boundary
![16.jpg 16.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134066-1f515903ec246b4216c76236ce228df2.jpg)
Gaining some elevation. View is up the South Fork of the Shoshone River
![17.jpg 17.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134067-fe2683426e1960d65ef36e7996db28d9.jpg)
Chris, manhandling the switchbacks
![18.jpg 18.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134068-61cf77dc229b1fbde42c0580ab608300.jpg)
First good look up the canyon
![19.jpg 19.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134069-30854f6ef8d6e95523a496c366f8db05.jpg)
Many steep drop-offs along sections of this trail
![20.jpg 20.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134070-d894aaea26d739d7cc000edd14cbde24.jpg)
Falls on a side-stream of Deer Creek
![21.jpg 21.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134071-50f5cc8c6802d6aa8f1ed1f5aa14ca3c.jpg)
Looking back down canyon
![22.jpg 22.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134072-a7f5f9b1729dd9f2a1ea36362de44d0e.jpg)
A Mormon cricket
![191.jpg 191.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134076-e394ee6e043e740eb7fe5c2d95e9e09d.jpg)
See that log about thirty feet downstream? I crossed that log so that I wouldn't get my boots wet.
![192.jpg 192.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134077-e5b9c7499bd51c647c9cde8935adfa9e.jpg)
I got stuck in this and couldn't get back to the trail. I tried removing my pack and lifting it over the downfall, but it was no use. I
had to tuck my tail between my legs and retreat back across the log. I ended up getting my boots wet.
![23.jpg 23.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134073-8c0396749fe36bda6c9e9051a8b67346.jpg)
Deer Creek
![24.jpg 24.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134074-a55a3a373dbf394443c6365f275295a6.jpg)
Mountain ash
![25.jpg 25.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134075-9d8894ed1d0e9402223ce2add69f9092.jpg)
More Deer Creek
![26.jpg 26.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134078-08884c07d21bcf0e85365bf89e6ed027.jpg)
More tributary falls
![27.jpg 27.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134079-810067e0c8f56d947943e29c060828ec.jpg)
![28.jpg 28.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134080-d942b852f3b323fdd9f1d230e36b3243.jpg)
![29.jpg 29.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134081-2d698c623e437535227fd4935cf93f63.jpg)
Views from along the trail
![30.jpg 30.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134082-8b55bef350bc142edc0d05f3829ac6f0.jpg)
Sulphur buckwheat
![31.jpg 31.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134083-6bdcbf9f4952e25f8e118677b51e50a1.jpg)
![32.jpg 32.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134084-9f9becc8a221bef7167e03cf404ad215.jpg)
A mule and horse from Bob and Brent's outfitter. Who was riding this horse?
![33.jpg 33.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134085-52ae10cc512a696bc673c564c35fa3ab.jpg)
![34.jpg 34.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134086-65921993eaa79d531e20ed4eaa26db55.jpg)
Views from the trail
![35.jpg 35.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134087-146a529a524252682e2cbcec303afbe7.jpg)
![37.jpg 37.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134089-d0218e4a0aaf84fe362580a02bcc35c1.jpg)
Wildflowers
![36.jpg 36.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134088-0cd2fd26e65ed67f3d911836ff90edc6.jpg)
Camp for night one
Once comfortably in my tent for the evening, Dave called to me and said that he had received a message from Brent on his satellite connection that told us not to come down the North Fork of Butte Creek because it was "sketchy." What did sketchy mean? No old horse trail? No good campsites to be had? Too many willows to contend with? bad fishing? I would have preferred the message be sent by smoke signals, but since there are fire restrictions in place, I'll let the techies win this one.
Day 2 - Upper Deer Creek to Junction of North Fork Butte Creek with Butte Creek
After the "sketchy" warning, we decided to take the Butte Creek Trail down and meet Bob and Brent where the North Fork flows into Butte Creek.
![38.jpg 38.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134090-0dc2c7969b38fc5c84f5d82a64002e53.jpg)
A deer strolls by near camp in the morning
![39.jpg 39.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134091-c1aceb5d6b4413053f1375719a25dae7.jpg)
Chris, beginning the switchbacks up to Deer Creek Pass
![43.jpg 43.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134092-baa88e28118a4f41021ad65e3b8d6598.jpg)
Monkey flowers along the trail
![40.jpg 40.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134093-59373a6390aec7d2cc80b62a02c852d4.jpg)
The north side of Fingfisher Peak
![41.jpg 41.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134094-b3fece0a1cb33a4f6dc50783bd8ca0b4.jpg)
The Deer Creek Trail
![42.jpg 42.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134095-f1cf9ac87fe57cb6d44836fc704ad6a6.jpg)
First good view of the pass
![44.jpg 44.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134096-acb34617e06263d52f615b9cd2ce6146.jpg)
It just might be scary riding a horse through the sections ahead.
![45.jpg 45.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134097-f4dc5b3736435e6050b59b920415d5f2.jpg)
The logs have been set in place with long rods of rebar hammered into the hillside to
keep the trail from slumping off
![46.jpg 46.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134098-4eaba4234b9bcdf419cc4bb8d563274d.jpg)
Seems like we are almost there.
![47.jpg 47.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134099-e0478aa6993f10d6fad7865eb0cea286.jpg)
View back down the canyon
![48.jpg 48.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134100-da5abdfa628abf20a64a167e6c0ee5e2.jpg)
Deer Creek Pass
![49.jpg 49.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134101-47f72482beaf36799151c9c7c42a438c.jpg)
Chris waiting at the pass
![54.jpg 54.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134102-b9ba219b1ea0ff1f58bd9489d2ca96f9.jpg)
Scatman crawling to the pass
![55.jpg 55.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134103-9748443abc655cd1300c07d02f1f20fb.jpg)
Help! I've fallen and I can't get up.
rolled down the hill.
![51.jpg 51.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134104-8d899f721e3d07309e3899cc38100fbc.jpg)
Leaving the Washakie Wilderness and entering the Teton Wilderness
![50.jpg 50.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134105-6c2acd8bc96a9a348fb9d9a6df568d17.jpg)
View to the west from the pass
![52.jpg 52.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134106-b7fff36bcabde194d549357a01a77c1d.jpg)
Scott arrives at the pass
![53.jpg 53.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134107-5ea72ace95b77a3368e2bb449377d2d4.jpg)
Dave arrives at the pass
![56.jpg 56.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134108-3afe175f1df855fab76670c486aae3c4.jpg)
![57.jpg 57.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134109-5eeb481589576f54f033a86fe4e06ca1.jpg)
![58.jpg 58.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134110-cd7084ffe6482c6e79bc119a3ee8291f.jpg)
![59.jpg 59.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134111-04ae017cfd43226fdec400271a75e8b0.jpg)
As promised, the bikini pose in all cardinal directions if I made it to the pass. Sorry @Rockskipper, no real bikini.
![61.jpg 61.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134112-b0c5735acbd3f78e03f921009c6947c1.jpg)
@Bob and @b.stark disappeared over this hill to sketchiness.
![60.jpg 60.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134113-832031c34e55d931d3ac69d48cbde621.jpg)
The Thorofare Buttes
![62.jpg 62.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134114-33cc1b903010434119bd1ee81fd26ee5.jpg)
A horse highway heading down this side of the pass
![63.jpg 63.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134115-dd4cb8686c03cc9c578f6964aef63650.jpg)
A natural arch on the east end of the Thorofare Buttes
![64.jpg 64.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134116-8c0c6cd050bf87e167332df9cae18f84.jpg)
One of my favorite pictures of our trip
![65.jpg 65.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134117-6863c6db09f0e435cf359493d2c70e20.jpg)
Time to purify some water at the headwaters of Butte Creek
![66.jpg 66.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134118-95dfd9651e848712ec082118c74dca91.jpg)
A look back at the pass
![67.jpg 67.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134119-671b0e6503ce950bb18a162d8a9c7ada.jpg)
Bear track on the trail
![68.jpg 68.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134120-eaa70ecd7ae4c6e110c8d52374789560.jpg)
Old signpost at the junction with the Woody Creek Trail
![69.jpg 69.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134121-5156375698ca88b32b28ac12c81570b1.jpg)
The basin above is know as The Cathedral
![70.jpg 70.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134122-c30bcc44d755a2291b6966ba13d5d649.jpg)
Butte Creek
![71.jpg 71.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134123-fb15e053ef0e891dda0ed2e1b11824aa.jpg)
Where are @Bob and @b.stark ?
![72.jpg 72.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134124-0284fc7a9279aeee5d5ed73e9304537d.jpg)
Outfitter's camp on North Fork Butte Creek
![73.jpg 73.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134125-3e387f77627d5029740401531589cad5.jpg)
Interesting
![74.jpg 74.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134126-a47c9d785cc007903e8e53ab033d9e87.jpg)
@wsp_scott and @futurafree crossing Butte Creek to get to our campsite
![75.jpg 75.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134127-a066a8a8872a25dc07bacea3f2aee709.jpg)
Where the Hell are we?
![76.jpg 76.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134128-5eaf9b2b628c294d976c32b943eaf278.jpg)
Ledge stonecrop
![77.jpg 77.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134129-8bcd4d0972aaef7ef7e072c3f9268294.jpg)
My tent
Day 3 - Junction of Butte Creek and North Fork Butte Creek to Outfitter's Camp up Hidden Creek
We were originally going to camp at the mouth of Hidden Creek, but the overall sketchiness changed our plans.
![78.jpg 78.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134130-16170f8001fe08f0c86d24bfca6d9fc1.jpg)
A deer yesterday and a squirrel today to start the morning off
![79.jpg 79.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134131-d54b7f313bd1c3371a24afabd7cf40e1.jpg)
Heading down Butte Creek again
![80.jpg 80.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134132-540ab1d59cf13f130a80d88174f7a818.jpg)
Getting close to the Thorofare Creek Trail
![81.jpg 81.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134133-d2450678ef61ae016da2203b4d2f42e4.jpg)
Thorofare Creek
![82.jpg 82.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134134-877086709a611edb2c31f98f1793b13c.jpg)
![83.jpg 83.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134135-d1d54aa96d57aad4dd93d34178620baa.jpg)
The old Cabin on Pass Creek
At this point, we saw someone heading up the Thorofare Creek trail and Scott called out to him. It turned out to be @Georgia Yankee who was looking for us. He joined us at the cabin for a group shot.
![84.jpg 84.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134136-3464abe18c76964ab2870c2134e631fb.jpg)
Group shot at the cabin - @b.stark , @futurafree , @Georgia Yankee , @wsp_scott , @Bob , @TractorDoc , and Scatman
![85.jpg 85.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134137-4d69aecc18217e53ccfe0a3f648bc435.jpg)
Back on Thorofare Creek
![86.jpg 86.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134138-d836d33e753ade9b88b92b2cc4da37d4.jpg)
Heading towards Hidden Creek
![87.jpg 87.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134139-53c1c2613feb78d58c017279269b1b7d.jpg)
Hidden Creek cuts through the "V" in the ridge
![88.jpg 88.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134140-6319a003eb11c48857262fc55de0df51.jpg)
@Georgia Yankee and a bear box near the mouth of Hidden Creek
![89.jpg 89.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134141-9ef5ef3534c8808cbf9b7fed17cbb9d1.jpg)
@wsp_scott crossing Thorofare Creek
![90.jpg 90.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134142-7d706f0899083e7ab159d309b9173135.jpg)
@Georgia Yankee showing us all how easy the crossing is
![91.jpg 91.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134143-7d4d3b2f7fe440f171fe623ac17838fc.jpg)
Steep switchbacks going up the hill on the first part of the Hidden Creek Trail
![92.jpg 92.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134144-90dca5e087c528f40d99c41a11b8b25e.jpg)
Dave and Chris on the switchbacks. I think they are thinking, "Get out of the way
slowpoke!"
![93.jpg 93.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134145-078571482879788e90c804aab3de0e68.jpg)
A deer on the hillside runs away from us
![94.jpg 94.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134146-b9d13b532d82f79bb457b406a3283922.jpg)
Brent and Jim making their way through this neat little valley before climbing again
![95.jpg 95.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134147-569a3fbac6f54f720eb5c4b96a053e98.jpg)
Looking back down on that small valley
![96.jpg 96.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134148-f0677e68dd2a3df3830f5b4b954bb1f4.jpg)
Geranium
![97.jpg 97.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134149-7ea223ab336534063288d1e591db53a9.jpg)
The mountain directly ahead (unnamed peak 10,770) is the divider between the east and west branches of Hidden Creek
![98.jpg 98.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134150-ad017635b36a7196eb8d4fdeb6b0a46a.jpg)
Monkey flower
![99.jpg 99.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134151-19af1693ed0e467fbe83d27ad76057a7.jpg)
Another sign near the outfitter's camp
![100.jpg 100.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134152-2b7142ca1474fcaab50ef8ab319485cf.jpg)
Dinner time at the outfitter's camp. This is where we learned the story of the soon to be legendary Rooster Allen Seacrest.
![101.jpg 101.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134153-c543e398f04b205793ce05e075eb9a00.jpg)
GoPro - Take a picture!
Day 4 - Outfitter's Camp on Hidden Creek to the end of the Second Meadow on Hidden Creek
This was a short day which gave us time to try and get to the waterfall at the end of the valley
![102.jpg 102.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134154-d237ddab3a80d755eb9b8076fbb8b42a.jpg)
First view of Hidden Creek
![104.jpg 104.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134156-18d892d1f513321141d74e398a9e7a98.jpg)
Something is picture worthy after fording Hidden Creek
![103.jpg 103.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134155-306a6e84d995e725e705dab083a46212.jpg)
Yellows monkey flower
![105.jpg 105.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134157-bb65791cae5be846d3d29c12f3db26a6.jpg)
Another small arch above
![106.jpg 106.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134158-21f90b33d169c8c784e35be51564dc94.jpg)
Making our way through the first meadow
![107.jpg 107.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134159-b979dd2b78dfb3c07db7295827d65b14.jpg)
Grizzly scat
![108.jpg 108.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134160-2d5629bf4c936c5cc3d21f7686e5a073.jpg)
And guess who is bringing up the rear?
![109.jpg 109.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134161-6ab6befb4e79b96a57c273cb6f336d51.jpg)
Mountains along east side of Hidden Creek Canyon
![110.jpg 110.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134162-9b86ca565bce6a390396e73126257df7.jpg)
Last break before reaching our campsite
![111.jpg 111.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134163-398f9ed7054dd3fde293f68d6780cbf5.jpg)
Making our way through the second meadow
![112.jpg 112.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134164-2f0efa760dd6d809a34f5a65c7f8cf09.jpg)
U turn on Hidden Creek
![113.jpg 113.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134165-fe7ff3ee5444f974eff92a37c612abff.jpg)
Group shot
![114.jpg 114.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134166-79fe4c54bfa6eb789caddaaff6cf2615.jpg)
![115.jpg 115.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134167-c87a1ed8e443f8abd712ab83cdc4cd2b.jpg)
Hidden Creek Falls
![116.jpg 116.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134168-4926e99e50dc457e059c326d60c9c896.jpg)
Once last stream to cross to get to camp
![117.jpg 117.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134169-c587937bb4169ef7eb2c49e67fd68286.jpg)
Our campsite. It rained for a short time, but once it stopped some of us headed for the falls
![118.jpg 118.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134170-0c087b26af5d1d86069786a1a9aa2574.jpg)
A police car moth on some ragwort
![119.jpg 119.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134173-3202de942df7a7bce33e5283245b13b5.jpg)
Making our way towards the falls between the willows and the forest
![120.jpg 120.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134174-175dadc8fd7875681235212766d27a02.jpg)
Hidden Creek
![121.jpg 121.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134175-e1f3c91f96f299a76b30430c40968481.jpg)
Another taste test. Yep, grizzly.
![Hungry :hungry: :hungry:](/addedsmilies/hungry.gif)
![123.jpg 123.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134176-c09951c87a844446f1de27102b3164fe.jpg)
No getting up the cliffs here
![124.jpg 124.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134177-6e53b55e129cee96624452a80c6f7f4e.jpg)
@futurafree crossing Hidden Creek
![125.jpg 125.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134178-d6c47750bd7337e67004343af455b462.jpg)
Zoomed in on the mist from the falls
![126.jpg 126.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134179-6c9c57a1f79530f839ef4857225ce8f1.jpg)
More wonderful paintbrush just above the creek
![127.jpg 127.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134180-7f2fe2bf0a3eccacd6b44e8ceaceb3db.jpg)
Remember the boulder in Indiana Jones?
![127b.jpg 127b.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134181-ab5017d8d8a42aba7e5fa50d19d4059f.jpg)
Columbine
![128.jpg 128.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134182-c83620ce5f686bc65190356f814886ef.jpg)
A tall column on the west side of Hidden Creek
![129.jpg 129.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134183-2d067f0ba32d1ea370955d2eb44d504d.jpg)
Good flow to the creek
![130.jpg 130.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134184-ca4c0899d2323046adce61433768c214.jpg)
At the base of the cliff band I ran into a game trail
![131.jpg 131.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134185-8b1671a65588e23c166d76f7e2a82426.jpg)
Straight down to the creek
![132.jpg 132.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134186-7864dc454b9b0b5349063278d5ec3f3c.jpg)
Butt pucker time at this point as I try to round the bend to get to the waterfall
![133.jpg 133.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134187-fa1f4c07c4e1ce707887b0a8b18d4b5a.jpg)
Don't like the loose rocks
![134.jpg 134.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134188-6c36e3c7a19201c178d235eb85ba58b1.jpg)
![135.jpg 135.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134189-f77cccc2f89dade79644d2e65bab4d79.jpg)
Made it to the falls
![136.jpg 136.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134190-abb1e410659ebfda8b8b2e5366c25d01.jpg)
Dave and the column on our way back down
![137.jpg 137.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134191-165fea9f64e64e86f6b71b7ae0cdddb9.jpg)
Very steep at this point as we try to make our way back down to the creek
![138.jpg 138.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134192-6d93df8e4f8153277219e5d00823b183.jpg)
Back on the creek
![139.jpg 139.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134193-37b201b5712ea805610a176beee34e6d.jpg)
Looking down Hidden Creek
![140.jpg 140.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134194-9ac7e730b1776cc660ba6d2c4e7e0e74.jpg)
More columbine
![141.jpg 141.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134195-5c31276045640df8a1aa27baac85bb2b.jpg)
Flies on cow-parsnip
![142.jpg 142.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134197-d07f07f8fcf3b3ba43f94c1a26fbced6.jpg)
Last look at the falls
![143.jpg 143.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134198-ceb0b42c0de240e215bf0db850f480ff.jpg)
Some willows to contend with on our way back to camp
![144.jpg 144.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134199-19af2098a905016be32664c71f74bf5f.jpg)
Dave and the falls
![145.jpg 145.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134200-9be97fab608e66dc594b4943ca60ca11.jpg)
![146.jpg 146.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134201-c24ef46f5c900ba5c05032a69cfecfd5.jpg)
![147.jpg 147.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134202-1ce071941aead0e5588406f98f3ab749.jpg)
Dinner time
![149.jpg 149.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134204-3faf4cb8de4302f15421a2d2dd063bb3.jpg)
Meeting of the brain trusts
![148.jpg 148.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134203-acf5c75eec85885c9cccf7888fd1bcba.jpg)
Camp
Day 5 - Upper Hidden Creek Meadow to Thorofare Creek
@Georgia Yankee would be leaving us today to continue his adventure to upper Thorofare Creek, Majo Pass, North Fork of the Yellowstone, Younts Peak, and beyond. It was a pleasure meeting you Jim and hope that someday we can meet on the trail again.
![150.jpg 150.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134205-ef68ba66e7d6f495dbcde199a59b6fbf.jpg)
Sunrise on Hidden Creek
![151.jpg 151.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134206-b6bd4d3a1beeb75402a416a1075699b6.jpg)
Sulphur paintbrush
![152.jpg 152.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134207-4e1fb68e41ef95bf1170ac81e6a66e41.jpg)
Back the way we came
![153.jpg 153.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134208-0dd6be2991a7f6fbda595ff427e4aa3d.jpg)
Unnamed peak 10,770
![154.jpg 154.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134209-6f927e15d6844cb65ae6c06e67eaa085.jpg)
@Bob , finding the optimal crossing point
![155.jpg 155.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134210-72cfe33edb959e82c209f9bba7d133a3.jpg)
A quick break back at the outfitter's camp
![156.jpg 156.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134211-2731a3434090b666b128b31e346eda2c.jpg)
Petrified Ridge in the distance. Rumor has it someone wants to return to explore that ridge next year.
![157.jpg 157.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134212-03b192ff895f3d2bedb3fbaedff3bfec.jpg)
Dave passing through the pretty little valley before dropping down to Thorofare Creek
![158.jpg 158.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134213-2af51d2831d6ba585211932e0b57a6a5.jpg)
A new grizzly track on the trail since we came in
![159.jpg 159.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134214-7037ca3bcd86618d80abc2581eb88196.jpg)
Thorofare Creek
![160.jpg 160.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134215-c99e71a28e3ac401e84dd0b07db4f04d.jpg)
A stonefly. These guys were all over my tent.
![161.jpg 161.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134216-46d52f798e4a9d12158d1d65c4519f90.jpg)
Ducks swimming upstream on Thorofare Creek
![162.jpg 162.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134217-42f140bb3bf96a06a8cbcee69df259c1.jpg)
Petrified Ridge to the north
Later in the evening we would have a nice lightning and thunderstorm show.
Day 6 - Thorofare Creek to Upper Butte Creek
@b.stark , @futurafree , and @wsp_scott would be leaving the group today so that they could get out a day earlier. They are wonderful lads and I hope I get to share a trail and a campsite with them in the future.
![163.jpg 163.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134218-896fdf69519d7b68e1fd99d33ca2689c.jpg)
Morning sun on Thorofare Creek
![164.jpg 164.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134219-fb3a9c39dd7da2b613f049e2e5c61763.jpg)
Not exactly sure what this guy is doing, but his camping partner could not catch their horse. Every time he would get close, the
horse would run away. It was wearing a bell, so as it ran you'd hear tinker, tinker, tinker. This made me laugh out loud to watch.
Soon karma would get me back for being amused by his misfortune.
![165.jpg 165.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134220-065f0cd1f0fae002e03d7d19316bc2fe.jpg)
Muddy Pass Creek flowing into clear Thorofare Creek
![166.jpg 166.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134221-de86c4be4db800ee7a6769770484d8a9.jpg)
Bear sign
![167.jpg 167.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134222-8831f3a75829288fb35924f69b8bc50a.jpg)
Back on Butte Creek
![168.jpg 168.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134223-f802c4699aa8ce668506bd4580397516.jpg)
Butte Creek
![169.jpg 169.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134224-7a7e9d9b1ff08aa0dda31671efd4cc1a.jpg)
Fireweed
Not long after they above picture was taken, e reached North Fork of Butte Creek (Sketchy). @TractorDoc crossed and I followed. As I approached the opposite bank, I stepped on a wet rock with my right foot. I then went to reach out with my left foot to step on the bank when my right foot slipped off the wet rock. I put my leg down into the creek only to encounter another very slick rock. I went down fast and hard and stuck my right arm out without even thinking about it. As soon as I hit I felt immediate pain in my right arm. I knew right away that I had broken something. My wrist? My forearm? Both? If I had been thinking I would have had Bob or Dave snap my picture. Scatman down! But I was too busy curled up in a ball of pain to think about that at the moment. I eventually got up and adrenaline carried me through the rest of the day. I also took less pictures as it hurt to remove my camera from the shoulder strap clip. I did manage to take some though.
![170.jpg 170.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134225-a717726e5945e3dffce96a7eb8f5380e.jpg)
![171.jpg 171.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134226-577fcd02ad9298f6e04adae23bccf3d7.jpg)
Mule train heading in to set up the outfitter's camp on Hidden Creek. This was the same outfitter that took Bob and Brent to the
top of Deer Creek Pass on day one.
![172.jpg 172.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134227-f8719124630178ac0576b6d06f4a38d0.jpg)
Fireweed on the hillside beneath the dead trees
![173.jpg 173.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134228-0ceaa80d85d428024de24e2fbea7bccd.jpg)
Back at the Thorofare Buttes
![174.jpg 174.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134229-0b7437c40d099b95dcc775391702098e.jpg)
Campsite for the night
Day 7 - Upper Butte Creek to Upper Deer Creek
We had a grizzly bear come through our camp in the night.
![174b.jpg 174b.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134230-13a2a16b8facb1829b3813a161f8dc95.jpg)
Our visitor last night. Its prints were over the top of our boot prints in camp
![175.jpg 175.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134231-f832f1b9c10e1c6803442f6448823833.jpg)
Deer Creek Pass once again
![176.jpg 176.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134232-8424a7c1b6714610d47c1117e95fcbf0.jpg)
![176b.jpg 176b.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134233-c4e174194924debe8a9eea6da962e09e.jpg)
Horse remains
![177.jpg 177.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134234-b9824c927af5a3e4b555182cccb91de6.jpg)
Bob and Dave approaching the pass
![178.jpg 178.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134235-9625734a0258419ca9c10f7b2103a2e6.jpg)
Bob on the pass. It was really windy on this side of the pass
![179.jpg 179.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134236-cf36d09cb9007d3a7e50d40712a9118b.jpg)
Dave on the pass. Ground squirrels were plotting his demise at this point.
![180.jpg 180.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134237-a0ea93893b4433a3cbac1db2b19da661.jpg)
The main culprit
![181.jpg 181.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134238-b8da743ed8991712bfabb7a4a3495d2d.jpg)
Down the other side
![182.jpg 182.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134239-c6b20efc50baacc56af99f44b966fe06.jpg)
Bob, thinking how his horse made it through this section
![183.jpg 183.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134240-d9b5c341f6a6136ff2bdb3fad8506e85.jpg)
Deer Creek
![184.jpg 184.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134241-22b766f3ba5081dbf0ae6b30558124c5.jpg)
Getting chilly as a cold front moves in
Day 8 - Upper Deer Creek to the Deer Creek Trailhead.
All downhill from here.
![185.jpg 185.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134242-2fade1e22832d43a77db953d74db415c.jpg)
Woke up in the clouds. Everything was soaking wet.
![185b.jpg 185b.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134243-b4c05261ec1a09123db5c20a292c0af3.jpg)
Hand and wrist swollen this morning
![186.jpg 186.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134244-f998d5774df05524ee267f9b35dfd7f8.jpg)
This bear lead us almost all the way down the trail to the trailhead
![187.jpg 187.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134245-ac668fdf5fe6aa7c19cfded6ddf5737c.jpg)
Walking out of the clouds
![188.jpg 188.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134246-477de9be0c449e02bb6857643d893e1a.jpg)
This guy is 80 years old, carries an external frame pack and went over Deer Creek Pass to The Cathedral. On his way back down
when we ran into him - very inspirational.
![189.jpg 189.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134247-dfdc6453011352fbc29200b8872e013b.jpg)
These are what got me up the hill on day one - fresh raspberries.
![190.jpg 190.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134248-fc79ae711b238ad4f250b0447c3be574.jpg)
Can just make out the valley in the distance where the trailhead is located
![193.jpg 193.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134250-a46fd9606052b60e43c1f869caa63684.jpg)
The bear is still leading the way
![194.jpg 194.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134251-3d44affde9891586b0dbf050a99875a7.jpg)
Uphill again?
![195.jpg 195.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134252-3031abb4216d11fc2229e69ad44b3947.jpg)
Falls that we stopped at on day one
![196.jpg 196.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134253-d7340177396834af7b14d06d3b223bd6.jpg)
![197.jpg 197.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134254-3c0b268820d18d0db10f1d400bfc318a.jpg)
![198.jpg 198.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134255-e20a9a6ff12ddd4fb34c86fa9ad0ae11.jpg)
![199.jpg 199.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134256-63dc76267c399e509ac9ad07b86f3857.jpg)
I just loved these shots of the grizzly prints on the trail. It turned off at the top of the switchbacks on the last hill to descend before
the trailhead
![200.jpg 200.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134257-7a4ae61d68af4515795a09fc7ba2a097.jpg)
Bob, leaving the canyon
![201.jpg 201.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134258-d56283646d4caf186285985f06b12ddb.jpg)
The South Fork of the Shoshone River below
![202.jpg 202.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134259-f1e680cba112445a2f5b1b4a0be11f78.jpg)
The Sube! And the eighty's year old car (white one)
![202b.jpg 202b.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134260-0e370daccec61c54dea329801500aeee.jpg)
The last switchback
![203.jpg 203.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134261-c2e9af9f1e43b5171cab2049649c8bed.jpg)
Trail end group shot
![204.jpg 204.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134262-577f1be712632d6280aae82f3e1d4979.jpg)
Celebrated at the Cody Steakhouse
![205.jpg 205.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134263-e0c44ada478f7e14fda97888546873fa.jpg)
Enjoying a 24 ox. medium rare T-bone
![206.jpg 206.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134264-3ed8370f659b0e0d1257322f88f01565.jpg)
Along with a Jeremiah Johnson Mountain Man Scotch Ale. Quite good I might add.
![207.jpg 207.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134265-a9d621e63eb71ab93db17eb19b6b4ab6.jpg)
It was now time to go get the arm checked out
![208.jpg 208.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134266-964109e8aa41030e834058675dfc9272.jpg)
I liked this image when they took me back to X-ray my wrist and forearm
![210.jpg 210.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134267-11c9905f43d3e50fab090a764f043134.jpg)
Broken wrist is the verdict
![209.jpg 209.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134268-f81b40c4a53597de0a4c9c072fa05ef8.jpg)
They told me to make an appointment with an orthopedic specialist when I got back to Salt Lake
![211.jpg 211.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134269-0dcd24e09dba0eeca965ba86c81433b1.jpg)
We had a day to kill in Cody before Dave flew out, so we did some shopping and had a beer or two.
![212.jpg 212.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134270-02df710f23e430b0cd401d67102e9a66.jpg)
@Rockskipper , I may need some help affording these 25,000 dollar boots that commemorate
Yellowstone National Park's 150th anniversary. I promise I will pay you back.
![213.jpg 213.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134271-0ff23bedffe95bf544e0b46a7b9e7e3b.jpg)
After dropping Dave off at the Cody airport, this sunrise greeted me on the way to Thermopolis.
![214.jpg 214.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/134/134272-5d926e4d1ef48a3a020678566f956621.jpg)
I made an appointment with an orthopedic specialist when I returned to SLC and he confirmed the broken wrist and then put me in
a custom made brace for the next four weeks. He told me that he would put me in a cast instead if I was going to be stupid. I told
him that I'd be a good lad with my right wrist. Does anybody on here believe that?
Well, even with the wrist situation, it was a fun trip. I was a little disappointed that we couldn't complete the original route, but hey sometimes that just happens. I would definitely recommend Hidden Creek to anyone who is interested.
The End.
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