Deer Ridge Trail

View of Grand Valley from west of Deer Park.

Jim Patterson

• Description
• Trail Conditions
• Camping
• Special Concerns
• Safety
• Map

Notices:

• For the most up to date information on how to obtain a Wilderness Permit, visit our Wilderness Reservations Page.
• Check with the USFS for Slab Camp road status.

 

Description

• Ecosystem type: Montane forest, subalpine meadow
• Trail tread types: Good
• General elevation trend: Moderate
• Unique features: Views, rhododendrons
• Level of difficulty: Moderate
• Distance: 1.5 miles (National Park section only) 4.8 miles from Slab Camp to Deer Park
• Elevation change: 5,400 feet to 5,000 feet (NPS section only); Slab Camp to Deer Park 2,500 feet to 4,500 feet
• Best Season: June through October

 

Camping

• Food Storage Method: Bear canisters are required in the subalpine high country where food cannot be hung at least 12 feet high and 10 feet out from the nearest tree trunk.
• Campsites: There are no good campsites located along this trail.
• Toilet Facilities: None. Bury waste 6-8" deep and 200 feet from water sources and campsites. Please pack out toilet paper.
• Water Source: No water along the trail. There are springs at Deer Park and Slab Camp.
• Stock: Allowed. See Stock Use for regulations and visit our trail conditions page to see current accessibility.

 

Special Concerns

• Leave No Trace: Practice Leave No Trace during your stay to protect vegetation and other park resources. Camp in established sites or on bare ground.
• Campfires: To protect sensitive vegetation, campfires are prohibited above 3,500 feet. Where fires are allowed, leave no trace of your fire ring. Burn dead and down wood only.
• Respect Wildlife: To protect bears and other wildlife, all food, garbage, and scented items must be secured from all wildlife 24 hours a day. Bear canisters are recommended in this area.

 

Safety

• Always carry the 10 Essentials: map, compass, flashlight, knife, matches, nylon cord, extra food and water, and rain gear with warm clothes.
• Map & compass navigation skills may be necessary in places along this trail. Snow may cover higher reaches of this trail in any season, so know how to navigate without a trail for guidance.
• Let someone know where and when you are taking your hike. Make emergency plans for them to follow if you do not return.
• Watch the weather before and during your hike. Storms move quickly. Whiteouts are sudden. Read the weather forecasts, but remember to read the weather in front of your eyes.

 

Trail Conditions

Read up on the latest trail conditions