TAKE A HIKE ON THE ART
OCTOBER 15, 2011
The Applegate Trails Association (ATA) is in the process of developing the Applegate Ridge Trail (ART), a primarily ridge top hiking trail that connects Grants Pass with Jacksonville. The plan is to connect to the proposed Jack-Ash Trail (from Jacksonville to Ashland) being developed by Siskiyou Upland Trail Association (SUTA). ATA will host a hike on a section of the proposed ART Saturday, October 15, 2011. The hike will be approximately 4 miles long with spectacular views of Ruch and the Applegate Valley accented with those amazing fall colors. We meet at 9 a.m. at BLM’s Bunny Meadows parking area which is located at the intersection of Forest Creek Road and Longanecker Road. Forest Creek Road is approximately five miles west of Jacksonville on Highway 238. Longanecker intersects Forest Creek Road in about a mile. We will carpool from Bunny Meadows parking area in order to shuttle to the ridge top (4.5 miles) and those incredible views.
Most of this hike is along the ridge top on some fairly decent trails but there is 150 yards of steep off trail that makes this hike difficult. This short piece is an example of where trail construction would be needed in order to connect existing trails. Keep in mind there is a significant overall elevation drop (1470 feet) as we drive to the top and hike back down to the parking area. There will also be an alternate easier hike down the ridge trail and back of approximately 3 miles total. It would be appreciated if you would check in with the hike leader by October 14th. Hikers should wear appropriate clothing for the weather and sturdy footwear. Consider a hiking stick for that steep off trail piece. Remember to bring food and water and please leave your pets at home.
For more information contact the hike leader, David Calahan, at 541-899-1226 or dpcalahan@live.com
What a great endeavor! The ART will be a wonderful asset to our area. Exciting!