East Applegate Ridge 4-22-26

Photos by Nanci

Ashland Hiking Home

Whatever the hike schedule, the weather rules. Once again, we found ourselves pivoting from a potentially slippery, wet hike to a safer, drier destination. Today’s Plan B rewarded us with a beautiful, rain-free hike on dry trails. A bit of sunshine and comfortable temperatures treated the five of us to a vibrant wildflower display and clear views across the valley as weather moved over the Red Buttes and the Siskiyous.

Since we approached the trail from Highway 238, the initial elevation gain of about 1,900 feet had us stopping for a wardrobe adjustment within the first twenty minutes. With our small, efficient group, we continued to the halfway point, where the first bench viewpoint welcomed us for a short break. As we hiked on, passing a parade of wildflowers and stunning green hills, we continued past a couple more benches along the trail and arrived at our lunch destination—a picnic table near the Sterling Creek Road trailhead.

Following lunch, we kept a steady pace, with only a brief stop midway for our group photo. Even though this 10.5-mile hike is an out-and-back, the views and landscape make it a little gem of a hike.

Nanci