Local Hiking in SRC’s Backyard

Cliff Creek Falls

Cliff Creek is a favorite amongst locals. This 12-mile out and back hike gradually climbs 1,200 feet in elevation through meadows of sagebrush, aspen tree hillsides, red rock cliffs, groves of spruce and fir trees, and ends at a waterfall. This hike is for the able-bodied, as you must cross Cliff Creek at least 3 times before reaching the falls. For those who make the trek up to 8,000 feet in elevation, you will be treated to a cascading waterfall that tumbles down 68 feet into a red rock basin.

For those looking for more, two miles past the falls is Cliff Creek Pass (9,000 feet in elevation) and four miles further brings you to Roosevelt Meadows, named after Teddy Roosevelt who used to hunt there.

To get Cliff Creek trailhead from US Hwy. 191-189, drive four miles north of Bondurant and turn west onto Forest Road #30530. Coming from the north, Forest Road # 30530 is the first right turn south of Granite Creek Road. Continue south to where the road turns sharply to the east and becomes Sandy Marshall road. To the right you will see the Cliff Creek trailhead sign. Cliff Creek Trailhead is at the south end of Forest Road #30530 Cliff Creek Road, at its junction with Forest road #30531 Sandy Marshall Creek. There is ample parking at the trailhead.

Dog Creek

A 6-mile point-to-point hike, Dog Creek climbs 2,637 feet in elevation beginning right outside downtown Hoback, Wyoming in Snake River Canyon. Be prepared to hike Dog Creek Trail as a point-to-point by parking a second vehicle at Cabin Creek Trailhead, or choose to return the way you came. Be prepared for a proper creek crossing and variety in terrain.

To get there from Snake River Cabins, follow Highway 89 south and bear right at Hoback Junction and continue driving along the Snake River. Once past the road junction for Fall Creek Road and Cottonwood Work Center on the right, you will see a Caribou-Targhee National Forest sign on the right. Immediately past this sign is a small dirt road leading off to the right. This road quickly turns into a wash, so it is recommended that you park before the bridge where the road forks. Hike along the road, over the bridge, and up into the Dog Creek drainage where you will see a large outfitter camp with horse corrals. The trail begins at the end of the dirt road next to the information kiosk. Follow this link for directions to Dog Creek. 

Cream Puff

For those searching for a heart-throbbing challenge, Cream Puff is the hike for you. Despite its name, Cream Puff is no walk in the park. Rising a quick 3,000 feet in elevation, the “trail” follows an elk trail (so basically, you’re hiking straight up the face of the mountain). This super steep grunt is well worth it when you pop above the tree line and reach the summit to capture views of the Grand Teton.

To get there, take 191 from Jackson to Hoback Junction. Take a left at the junction to get onto 189/191. Follow this until you pass Bryan Flats Rd (look out for the big moose statue on the right). Park at Willow Creek trailhead. If you enter the canyon, you’ve gone too far. Follow this link for directions to Cream Puff.