About This Route
Slough Creek, accessed from the trailhead near Tower Junction, winds through nine miles of meadows hosting native cutthroats and trophy rainbows. Hike to the first or second meadow for solitude; dry fly fishing excels during PMDs in July. NPS emphasizes its role in native fish preservation; follow slot limits and artificial lures only.
Safety Considerations
Bears thrive in berry-rich drainages; mandatory spray and group travel. Trail erosion creates steep drop-offs; use trekking poles. Moose charge in willows; give wide berth. Afternoon thunderstorms common; descend by 2 PM. Hypothermia from cold canyon seeps. AIS prevention critical; decontaminate thoroughly. Park license required; check closures post-fires.
Essential Gear
Gear up with park permit, bear spray, Black Diamond trail poles, Therm-a-Rest emergency blanket, Goal Zero solar charger for devices, and Simms Guide Pack.
Emergency Tips
Moose charge: run zigzag. Bear: deploy spray. Lost trail: follow creek downstream to road. Nearest aid Tower Fall ranger station.