East Applegate Ridge – Ashland Hiking Group

Six hikers had a very pleasant hike on East Applegate Ridge Monday. Earlier predictions of morning showers didn’t happen and the fog, while in the valley and mountains, never reached the trail and evaporated before our eyes as we headed to the summit.

This local hike, known for great views, provided unique pictures as fog and clouds mixed with sunlight on our surroundings.

We hiked 3.5 miles up to the top of the ridge for lunch on comfortable logs and calm temps in the 50s.

Jerry went for extra credit after lunch by continuing on the trail down to its end at Highway 238 for a roundtrip back to parking of 11 miles.

The rest of us headed back down the way we came, although Randy broke off a few times to explore an abandoned ATV trail that ends at parking.

The out and back on the trail is 7 miles with an 800′ gain. And the sun broke through the clouds for our hike back after lunch.

Beer and fries were enjoyed at Boomtown post hike.

Note: The BLM road up to parking which was being repaired on our last visit in February is now free of potholes and a fairly smooth 0.6 miles up to the TH.

Hike Leader: Rich Stickle

Photos By: Jerry, Patricia, Randy