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Llama Pack Trip: Mud Creek Loop
This loop provides a short hike from South Steens Campground that features excellent views of both the mouth of Big Indian Gorge and the sagebrush and juniper country to the north, south and west. Perched on the hill above Indian Creek, it seems one can see forever. The vastness of this landscape quickly becomes evident and the idea that one can walk out into it and be free to go any direction for miles and miles provides a rare sense of freedom. Also along this route are two relatively rock-free areas for camping, a rarity in this country.
The image above was captured at the top of the climb out of Indian Creek. It is interesting to note that, while the canyon of the Donner und Blitzen River cuts lengthwise through the center of the view, it cannot be easily discerned. This is a landscape that can appear dull at first, but is full of hidden treasure.
Please note: The following description is being presented for your convenience. We bear no responsibility for how you use it. Since conditions may have changed after the route was last scouted, it is strongly recommended that you inquire for up-to-date information as you plan your trip.
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The loop route from South Steens Campground to Mud Creek as described here follows hiker trails, 4-wheel drive track and abandoned jeep trails. There is also a section of cross-country. The trail to Indian Creek is perhaps the most heavily used trail in the Wilderness. Given the remoteness of this country, that means that in the height of the season, you might see another hiker. It also means that the tread is worn and easy to follow. Originally a jeep track, it is now an easy single tread path.
 Crossing Indian Creek is generally only a challenge when run-off is high due to melting snow. This usually occurs in June. In the late summer and fall, the crossing can be reduced to a rock hop. To complete the loop one leaves the trail after crossing Indian Creek and climbs the slope out of the canyon. This cross-country climb can be a bit of a scramble depending on the route selected. It makes the loop much more challenging than it would otherwise be.
Above the creek, one enters an old burn now vegetated mainly by grass. From the top of the hill, excellent views can be had from here and good campsites can be found near the remaining junipers, although there is no water.
An abandoned jeep track leads down the hill to Mud Creek, but be forewarned, although the route is clear, this track may be hard to find. Upon reaching Mud Creek, the route joins the old jeep track to Ankle Basin that is now a hiking trail. Following it along Mud Creek and then northwest will eventually return one to the campground.
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The route described here is about eight miles long and involves a total loss and gain of about 1150 feet. The highest elevation on the route is about 6100 feet. The climb out of Indian Creek, the most demanding aspect of the hike, involves a climb of about 400 feet in half a mile at a 16% grade. Because this section of the hike is cross-country, it could be prohibitive to some people.
The corresponding drop is divided into several stages, which makes it much easier. In fact this loop could be hiked the other way around except that finding the drop to the upper ford of Indian Creek would be more difficult. Downstream from this ford both sides of the creek become lined with small cliffs and large boulders that make crossings for llamas formidable and dangerous.
Mud Creek is popular place to camp with numerous good campsites scattered along its upper section.
If an extension of the route is desired, one can turn south where the old jeep track/trail crosses Mud Creek. The track continues to Ankle basin and beyond. These areas get far fewer visitors than the gorges and are spectacular in their own rights. See descriptions of the Public Waterhole llama pack trip for details.
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Website update: 02FEB2022
© Burns Llama Trailblazers LLC herd@burnsllamatrailblazers.com
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