Anderson Ridge Trail (J-A trail) from Greenstone 5-15-23

Photos by Bob amd Jerry

What a difference a week can make this spring in Southern Oregon. I had to reschedule our hike on Anderson Ridge last week because of strong predictions of snow and rain; but on Monday the trail was dry, the flowers were out and temps were from 60s to 70s.

The steady climb up Greenstone Trail is at first rocky but shaded which makes an ideal environment for late season purple Snow Queen and lavender Fawn Lilies.

At the top of this initial gain, we found the Jack-Ash Trail post lying on the ground. We lifted it up, placed it in the post hole and supported it with large rocks around the base.

Next came the switch backs created by SUTA (Siskiyou Upland Trail Association) to link Greenstone to Anderson and form the second section of the J-A Trail when it opened to hikers in 2018.

Lots of spring colors on this partially sunny section, highlighted by Milk Vetch and blue Hound's Tongue.

The last switch back takes you into the forest and deposits you on top of the ridge. Always an inspiring sight with snow capped peaks in the distance and the Little Applegate valley below. On this Monday we were immediately greeted by red blooming Grass Widows and later on the ridge trail by Scarlet Fritillary.

Before we headed out on the ridge, I took the group to the right so they could see the view from the right end of the ridge. They liked the spot so much we decided to come back to it for lunch after we hiked out to where the ridge met Anderson Butte Road.

After lunch we headed back down the trail to our cars.

We had hiked more than 6.5 miles and gained 1,000' in elevation.

One car visited a new ice cream shop in the Ray's shopping center in Phoenix.

Note: Next Monday's hike on Castle Crags is an 8 AM departure from Rite Aid.

Happy Trails,
Rich