Lost Creek Lake – North Shore

A rainy day changed our hike from Viewpoint Mike, which had no views 😒, to the Rogue River Trail from the Lewis Road TH that offered lake views, forests with bridge crossings and lichen 😊. After driving through some strong rainy patches on 62, we were glad to have moderate rain with none of the predicted wind while we were on the trail 🙏.

This first hike of 2022 would be a short 5 mile out and back to the Blue Grotto Falls. We were wondering if the falls would be fuller from the recent rain and snow.

When we approached the Blue Grotto from the North shore in November the falls were as if you had left the shower running with a fifty foot drop.

All the bridge crossings featured full creeks running into the lake which is still very low from years of drought 😒.

The trail winds along the lake side first heading west then making a right turn north towards the Grotto.

We were making good time on the trail when we came up to the longest bridge and were stopped dead in our tracks! Metal signs blocked the entrances to the bridge and announced Danger! Bridge Closed 😒!

There was no real chance of crossing the raging creek as the embankments were steep and muddy. So our short hike became an even shorter hike at 3.6 miles. But, getting back to parking early, we decided to head back to Shady Cove for lunch.

We found Miguel’s by the river open and had hot plates with Cerveza 🙌 !

Next Monday I’ll lead all enthusiasts in the Trans Ashland hike 😊 .

Hike Leader: Rich Stickle

Photos By: Randy