Leave from Haggen's parking lot in Ashland at 9:00 AM unless otherwise indicated. Bring water, lunch, hat, sunscreen and rain gear as appropriate. TH = trailhead; EDT = estimated drive time; PCT = Pacific Crest Trail; DIM = Dead Indian Memorial Highway. 100 Hikes = 100 Hikes in Southern Oregon, Second Edition
May 4: PCT from Greensprings Summit to Hobart Bluff (p. 130 in 101 Hikes)
TH: Drive Highway 66 14.5 miles to PCT crossing at Greensprings Summit. EDT: 45 minutes. Description: Follow the PCT for 3.3 miles through the woods and along the crest to the "Hobart Bluff Viewpoint" sign; turn right 0.3 miles to top of bluff; enjoy 360 degree views and lunch before returning the same way. Distance: 7+ miles; elevation gain: 2,000 feet of climbing; Weather Forecast. RT mileage: 35 miles.
Spring Overnight to Columbia Gorge
Tuesday May 10: Drive to Hood River Tuesday afternoon in time for a group happy hour and dinner. EDT: 5 hours. We will be staying at the Hood River Inn. Please contact them directly at 800-828-7873 to make your reservation. Let them know that you are with the Ashland Hiking Group to receive the special group rate of $140.99 + tax per night for a river view room. The room rate includes a hot served breakfast in their Riverside Restaurant. As an alternative, you can stay at the Comfort Suites Hood River (541-308-1000) for $109.00 + tax including a hot breakfast.
Wednesday May 11: Hike the Coyote Wall - Labyrinth Loop. Description: Enjoy great views of the Columbia River Gorge, cascading waterfalls, dramatic basalt outcroppings, and great wildflower displays. This hike comes highly recommended by Bev. Distance 7 miles, elevation gain 1,200 feet. Weather forecast.
Thursday May 12: Hike Dog Mountain. Hike leader: Gary Swanson. Description: This is one of the most popular hikes in the Columbia Gorge. Great views of the gorge and Mt. Hood along with spectacular wildflower displays. This hike is a favorite of Gary's. Distance 7 miles, elevation gain 2,800 feet. Weather forecast.
RT mileage: 725 miles.
May 18: PCT Across Brown Mountain.(p. 124 and p. 227 in 100 Hikes). Meet at 8:00 AM Hike leader: John Kerr
TH: Head up DIM past milepost 26. Immediately after entering Klamath County make a left on NF-3720 for 2.1 miles to a right on NF-700 / NF-3720 for 0.4 miles to the TH to drop the shuttle car. Continue on NF-3720 for 2.7 miles. Left on NF-3640 for 4.4 miles to Highway 140. Left on Highway 140 for 3 miles to the Summit Sno-Park TH. EDT: 75 minutes. Description: Walk across the lava fields with good views of McLoughlin. Distance: 10 miles; elevation gain: 1,500 feet. Weather forecast. RT mileage: 90 miles.
May 25: Jacksonville Trail System Hike leader: Hank Morgan
TH: City parking lot in Jacksonville behind the library; EDT: 30 minutes. Description: Close-to-home leg stretcher on the Jacksonville trail system; includes several steep stretches. Lunch in a Jacksonville restaurant of the group's choosing. Distance: about 7 miles; elevation gain/loss: 1,500 feet. Weather Forecast. RT mileage: 30 miles