Applegate Ridge 2-9-26

Photos by Jerry and Patricia

Ashland Hiking Home

15 brave souls drove through the misty fog to the East Applegate Ridge trail head expecting sunshine and a muddy trail, only to be confronted with more fog and surprisingly good trail conditions.  Upon completing the formalities of introductions, head count, sweep assignment, radio checks, and determining who came equipped with first aid kits, we began to briskly attack the trail before us. Ok, so maybe it wasn’t that brisk, we are the Monday group after all.

Despite the fog and limited viewing trekking out, we were rewarded with bright sunshine at our lunch spot overlooking a beautiful valley.  The lunch spot was a diversion from our original plan at the recommendation of Patricia. Cudos to Patricia!

During lunch we all partook in the traditional chocolate treat, which was graciously provided by, who else,  Patricia. That name is getting thrown around a bit isn’t it. A special treat of Pistachio flavored marshmallow rice crispy bars created by a local baking phenom, Ron Avery, and provided by Liz, the benefactor of the treat, was shared by all. One might get the idea we may need to pick up the pace on our return to burn off the extra calories. 

Sunshine on our return to the trailhead provided for some spectacular viewing as is customary on this hike. Those hoping to see flowers were rewarded with an early bloom Henderson’s Shooting Star, identified by Sunny, and a few PYFs (Pretty Yellow Flowers) identified by nonother than myself, your illustrious hike leader, Joe.

Overall, it was an excellent day for hiking, and we all left the trail invigorated and safe. Some of us even made it back in time for other exciting activities.

Joe