Deer Creek/Thunder River--Advice and Info.

[ddgrunning]

All right, all of you experienced, backcountry GC trekkers, I need some help. I have hiked the GC corridor trails several times, but am now venturing into the backcountry ...

I have oohed and aahed over the triplogs for the Bill Hall-Deer Creek-Thunder River hikes that several of you have been on, so I put in for a permit for this October. I requested a permit for two nights, with the plan of hiking from Bill Hall TH to (1) Deer Creek (AX7) on day 1; then looping down along the River and up to (2) Upper Tapeats (AW7) on day 2; then hiking out on day 3. Something along the lines of John9L's track: http://hikearizona.com/map.php?GPS=27449

Unfortunately, Deer Creek (AX7) was full for my first, second, and all optional dates listed. The permit I got, instead, has me staying at Upper Tapeats on night 1 and then at Surprise Valley (AM9) on night 2.

In light of the permit received, I need to revise my trip plans, and would appreciate some guidance/suggestions/advice on using this permit to get the most out of the hike. Other than what I can find here on HAZ, there seems to be surprisingly little, detailed information available online, about planning a trip in this area.

Has anyone camped at Surprise Valley (AM9)?
Since it's dispersed camping, is anywhere in the "valley" fair game, or is there a more restricted area? (I have yet to find any resource online that provides any detail about this camping area.) Any suggestions for the best place to set up camp for the night in this area?

Is a loop hike along the lines of my original itinerary still possible (perhaps in reverse)? I would definitely like to hit: Deer Spring, The Patio, Deer Creek Falls, Tapeats Creek and Thunder River, if possible. Perhaps the cave as well.

Also, I'd appreciate any advice on books or other written materials (or online materials) that would have more detailed information about this area, for us in trip planning.

Any other "must do" (or avoid); "must see"; or other tips/advice on backpacking in this area are also welcome and appreciated.

Thanks in advance (and sorry for the long string ....)

[chumley]

Some of that may be true, but there were two vehicles in our group and while I lead the way, the one behind me arrived at the same time I did.

[big_load]

@chumley Sometimes that tow rope really comes in handy.

[ddgrunning]

Thanks for all of the input. HAZzers are an awesome resource!

[autumnstars]

Oh, excellent!
I was just about to post a similar question, as I have a trip here coming up at end Oct.