By:
Submission
For hikers and backpackers, the Joyce Kilmer Slickrock Wilderness presents a variety of recreational hiking opportunities. There is a relatively easy two-mile long Memorial Loop Trail in the Memorial Forest, which annually greets more than 35,000 visitors, or there is a complex of hiking trails that cater to more experienced hikers, such as the 13.3 mile long Slickrock Creek Trail, considered as one of the ten toughest trails in the United States. With a 3,700 foot climb overall and 13 stream crossings, this trail is seldom completely traversed, but used in conjunction with the other trails in the Wilderness to provide excellent backpacking trips.
Other than at trailheads, camping is allowed anywhere within the Wilderness using Leave No Trace principles, but given the steepness of the topography, there are a few relatively heavily used back country camping areas. Many fishermen enter the Wilderness from the north using the Slickrock Creek Trail, Ike Branch Trail or hike down to the creek from Big Fat Gap, camping along the creek. Backpackers use the area at Naked Ground on the southern ridge, and there is an area near the Hangover that offers excellent views, but an unreliable water source. Nichols Cove area has good camping spots with abundant water, and some hikers camp near Wildcat Falls, but long sections of the various trails lack suitable spots for camping.
As a designated Wilderness, there are no trail blazes, just signs at trail junctions, so it is essential that hikers carry maps and compass, and know how to use them. It is not uncommon for very experienced hikers to get “confused” for a while in the creek area due to the multiplicity of real trails, unofficial trails, old logging trails, etc. Along the ridge, the trails are well-defined, but physically demanding.
A perfect place for a cool dip on this assume hike. The campsite was closed when we arrived. Watch for bears!
This is an excellent campsite! It’s about a 5.2 mile hike alongside a roaring stream. There are multiple campsites with fire rings and they’re separated by enough distance for privacy. There are multiple bear pulley systems too. This would be a great campsite for beginner backpackers. The terrain is not too challenging and there are no water crossings. It was so dark at night that I couldn’t see my hand that was only a few inches in front of my face. The stream within a few feet of the campsite was a great water source and I didn’t encounter any intestinal issues, as the result of drinking water that I purified from it. Don’t forget to check availability and reserve through the National Park Service. A backcountry permit is required to camp here.
Large open campsites. 4 fire rings and at least separate 3 bear line areas. Easy to get to from the parking area with a gentle slope and beautiful views of waterfalls and swimming holes along the way.
