Slab Camp Creek and Gray Wolf River, Deer Ridge — Thursday, Jun. 5, 2025

This was a loop trail from Slab Creek to Gray Wolf River to Deer Creek Campground and out. It was a really tough hike (at least for me!) but so worth it! Around 17 miles. 1st you hike down into the valley and then up again to Gray Wolf River. Around 7.5 miles. Along the way you'll see Pacific Rhododendrons and when you reach the valley and start up you'll see Calypso Orchids, which were a highlight for me. Also Coral Root, bunch berry, vanilla leaf, indian pipe, and one I haven't seen before called Sugarstick. The next day is a killer - up and up towards Deer Creek Campground - around 4.7 miles. You'll see common paintbrush, dog violet, currant, horseshoe vetch, purple fringe, spreading phlox - the list goes on and on! The last day is a downhill stretch from Deer Creek Campground along the Deer Ridge Trail. You'll need to watch your step - it's a steep downhill. And more Pacific Rhododendrons. All in all a beautiful hike and well worth the extra effort.