Hike – Page 6 – Friends of the Umpqua Hiking Group

Hershberger Mountain – June 25, 2022

Hike Coordinator: Cleve Moss

Narration by Cleve Moss

On Saturday morning 6 hikers came together to go visit the Old Hershberger Lookout. Some had been there before and a couple had not. The weather was to be clear skies for good viewing and on the warm side.

We headed east out of Canyonville toward Tiller and continued along Jackson Creek. Eventually we started to gain elevation which took us to the trail head to Cripple Camp Shelter. We saw a couple of large bucks with racks in their velvet. There was a doe and fawn so small it hid in the ditch brush as we went by. A nice spring black bear was spotted crossing the road.

When we got to the trail head, we were greeted by a few mosquitoes which hurried us to get on the trail quickly. The mosquitoes seemed to not bother us as long as we kept moving. So, when we needed to take a short break a short saying that could be heard went something like this: “Better keep walking because if the mosquitoes don’t get you, the gators will.” We would hear this sound advice several times during the hike.

Most of this hike is through an old mature stand of high elevation timber. At Cripple Camp Shelter there are two large Douglas firs, one probably about 10 feet in diameter and another about 8 feet in diameter. They seemed to say “Welcome!” to hikers as they peered out at the meadow. “My huge arms are here to shelter you from whatever the weather may be!” There were large specimens of Douglas fir, Mountain Hemlock, Pacific Silver Fir, Incense Cedar, Grand Fir and an occasional Sugar Pine throughout the hike. Small Goldened Chinquapin, huckleberry brush, fern, trillium and other blooming plants were scattered across the forest floor. There was evidence of wild fire from the past that was starting to green up along the route.

As we rounded around Todd March Prairie, we encountered a couple small patches of snow. When we crossed Pup Prairie it was lush with green growth with a few blooming flowers. The real show would be in the next week or two. You would expect to see some animals around the prairies, but we only saw a squirrel and a few birds.

During the last 2/3’s mile to the top, the trail steepened, requiring short walks and long blows. We anticipated that the hard climb would reward us with a good view. When we reached the lookout, Hershberger did not disappoint. Rabbit Ears was almost close enough to touch. The sky was clear, giving views of Shasta, McLoughlin, Union Peak, Crater Lake Rim, Thielsen and Bailey were all there to greet us.

The rock garden at Hershberger was composed of heather and paint brush, and the succulents were just starting with many more to come. It can be a pretty showy place when it is all abloom.

The easy trek back downhill made it feel as if the hike was already over with. Again, Hershberger did not disappoint, and we had a feeling that we would be back someday soon.

Photos below by Cleve Moss and Rheo Wheeler

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May 27 – 30, 2022 – Rogue River Trail Backpack Trip

While the hiking club did a day hike from Marial Lodge to Zane Grey’s Cabin on May 28, four members decided to make a 40-mile backpack trip on the same weekend on the same trail, starting from Graves Creek and finishing at Foster Bar.

Instead of providing the normal narration of the club hike, below is the link to Richard O’Neill’s blog which recounts how he, Missy, Michael and Terry spent a few wet days, along with a few dry days, on this spectacular scenic trail.

Rogue River Trail backpack trip May 27 – May 30, 2022

More pictures on Richard O’Neill’s Flickr page

Pictures below by Richard O’Neill

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North Bank Habitat – May 14, 2022

Hike Coordinator: Brad Bishop

Narration by Brad Bishop

It was the best of times, it was the worst of times.

Anticipation was thick in the air.

I had led an ambitious group of adventurers over snow covered hills and down frigid valleys at the start of 2022 on The Worst Hike Ever.

Now, our return to the undulating North Bank in a reverse route of our previous journey to see if logically it would be, The Best Hike Ever.

About a dozen hikers, a mix of well-traveled and new members, decided to see if my prediction would come to fruition. The cadre of trekkers knew there would be ups and downs to this journey, but all seemed to relish the thought of being a part of The Best Hike Ever. It was perfect hiking weather, Mid to high 50s, scattered clouds and little wind.

We started out determined and joyful from the East Parking Lot. The consensus of the group was that it was good to get the asphalt part of the loop done first. This positive attitude dropped as we traversed the first cattle gate…. There it stood before us. The East Boundary Rd. Trail. An elevation gain going towards the heavens at a 45-degree angle. After a deep breath and a few nervous laughs, we ascended. The troupe’s conversations, that had been high spirited and numerous, ceased to only uttering what was necessary and some words of encouragement about how this too will pass. Many cursed Newton on his theory of Gravity as the climb continued upward.

There were a few plateaus spread sparingly on our climb where the members rested briefly. Doubled over and gasping for air to feed their heaving lungs. A trail runner and his dog politely passed our group saying if it wasn’t for his dog pulling him up the mountain he would probably be in the same state of distress as we. I knew this to be untrue as him and his dog were keeping pace with one another. We bid him a happy adieu as they disappeared over another rise we had yet to conquer.

After finally making it up the first long and winding ascent we were challenged with the usual elevation drops and climbs that the North Bank is well known for, but along with that came some majestic views of the North Umpqua River and the valleys and mountains it encompasses.

We had decided to all meet up at the weather station for a quick refreshment break and make sure everyone was still functional for the downhill portion, yes the Powerline Trail. All were happy as I encouraged them that it was all downhill from there, all but Richard who claimed it wasn’t ALL downhill. I pshawed his statement and ensured the group it was all downhill. Some decided to break off and take the equestrian trail that ends up junctioning with Powerline at a slightly lower elevation.

Off we started again down, down, down the trail. You could tell this was an early season jaunt by sometimes seeing the long grasses almost obscuring site of the trail until you were upon it. It was a fairly easy hike with not very much mud. But then I stopped. The scene in front of me could not be true, my eyes must be deceiving me! Yes, there was some uphill traversing. Rats! Richard had been right I should have known better than disagree with the Trail master. Oh well, hopefully the rest of the crew would not remember my words.

The rest of the hike was fast and not too difficult except for our knee joints. We made it back to the Comstock parking gazebo and had some refreshments and Macrons. Most all concurred that it probably wasn’t the Best Hike Ever, but everyone had a good time and definitely got a little exercise.

Read more about this hike on Richard O’Neil’s blog, Richard Hikes

More pictures on Richard O’Neill’s Flickr page

Pictures below by Richard O’Neill

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Kentucky Falls – April 30, 2022

Hike Coordinator: Penny Groth

Narration by Penny Groth

Eleven hikers met at the Douglas County Courthouse on a drippy Saturday morning. As the hike coordinator, I handed out a sheet of info for driving and hiking. I asked Edwin to take the lead vehicle position once we got onto Lower Smith River Road as I had only been in there once before.

Off we went, three cars of us. We picked up two more hikers in Elkton, making our total count thirteen. The drive to this hike, in my opinion, is equally as beautiful as the hike itself (and on this day, more dry!). The drive up Lower Smith River Road is along the river, spotted with picturesque old barns and fruit trees. As the road meanders farther, there are several crossings over creeks heading for the Smith River, water tumbling over rocks, moss laden trees.

At the trailhead, we were welcomed with a heavy drizzle. We quickly added layers of raingear, trying to keep our base layers dry! After a group photo, off we went down the trail. This was not a gully washer, but an intermittent shower that came and went the entire day. Well…we were in a rain forest in April! Lots of trillium welcomed us along with bleeding hearts, solomon’s seal, ferns, and salmonberry to name a few. I did hear birds singing, but definitely not the same as a sunny day’s jaunt down this same avenue. This magnificent stand of timber within this coast range rainforest is a treat within itself; douglas fir, hemlock and red cedar, with ferns and wildflowers at their base. We often have glimpses of Kentucky Creek as we descend, and shortly into the hike we pass Upper Kentucky Falls. This fall is just as beautiful as the lower two, just different. Always fascinating to me to see how falls look different from one another, largely because of the rock formations beneath the flowing water.

Coming around that last corner before the double falls, brings a sense of awe. Two stunning waterfalls brim full of powerful rushes of water, Lower Kentucky Falls and North Fork Falls! At this point, a group of six wanted to continue downstream along the North Fork Smith River trail for a bit. This part of the trail encounters lots of small babbling streams trickling down to join Kentucky Creek. There were quite a few downed trees, and after the third set, four of us decided to find a lunch spot (two made it to the swimming hole…for lunch, not swimming). Edwin found the perfect restaurant with a view for the four of us; a large log with a picturesque view of Kentucky Creek, very enjoyable! We then headed back up.

My first trek along this path was March of last year, on a beautiful sunny day. The birds were singing so sweetly, wildflowers were at their peak, smiling in the sunshine. I have wanted to go back ever since and am so thankful I did!! It was not as stunning as in the sun, but definitely one of my favorites. I’d like to make this an annual event. But might be one to plan spur of the moment after checking out the weather – wink-wink!

Read more about this hike on Richard O’Neil’s blog, Richard Hikes

More pictures on Richard O’Neill’s Flickr page

Pictures below by Richard O’Neill

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Elk Creek – April 16, 2022

Hike coordinator: Richard O’Neill

Narration by Richard O’Neill

Only 4 other hikers showed up for this hike. There was a reason for the low turnout, mainly the weather, so I didn’t feel like no one likes me, which may be true. We had sleet, snow, hail, rain, wind, cold and oddly enough, sun and warmth. If you don’t like the weather in Oregon, just wait a few minutes!

Read more about this hike on Richard O’Neill’s blog, Richard Hikes

More pictures on Richard O’Neill’s Flickr page

Pictures below by Richard O’Neill

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Tahkenitch Dunes Loop – April 2, 2022

Hike coordinator: John Malone

A dozen or so hikers did some sand walking on this spring day on Tahkenitch Dunes. Some clouds, some sun, and a little sand in the boots made for an excellent combination of elements, which always reminds hikers they are on the Oregon coast!

Read more about this hike on Richard O’Neill’s blog, Richard Hikes

More pictures on Richard O’Neill’s Flickr page

Pictures below by Richard O’Neill

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Rogue River Trail: Graves Creek to Whiskey Creek Cabin – March 19, 2022

Hike coordinator: Terry Andreucci

Narration by Terry Andreucci

March 19th turned out to be a typical spring day in southern Oregon… “If you don’t like the weather now, just wait, it will change”. Sure enough, that was the case!

After meeting up in Roseburg, we traveled south on I-5 to Wolf Creek and onto Graves Creek boat launch and the beginning of the Rouge River Wilderness Trail. The hike consisted of a 7 mile out and back from the landing to the historic Whiskey Creek Cabin along the Rouge River.

Jackets on, jackets off, rain gear on, rain gear off… that seemed to be the theme of the day, but it did not dampen the beauty of the scenery or the enthusiasm of the hikers! Early spring wildflowers covered the hillsides in some areas, while the river provided a wonderful array of views, rapids and sounds of rushing water.

During the hike we encountered a sighting of a bald eagle, a spectacular rainbow spanning the river and the interesting history of the Whiskey Creek cabin.

It was another awesome day, surrounded by the wonders of nature and the camaraderie of Friends of the Umpqua!

Pictures below by Rheo Wheeler

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Mount Pisgah – March 5, 2022

Hike coordinator: Missy Kroeker

Narration by Missy Kroeker

Mt. Pisgah… Mt. Pisgah? It’s kind of a weird name. Upon investigation, the word literally means, “summit”. That’s just what we did, summit a 1,500 foot mount. Mt. Pisgah, by the way, is located in the Howard Buford recreation area just outside of Eugene.

As is our habit, a group of old and new hikers met at the courthouse parking lot ready for adventure. As the hike leader, I provided a map complete with digital map options and written driving directions to the trailhead. For this hike we were to start at the southeast trailhead off of Ridgeway Rd. near Pleasant Hill. It was up to everyone to get there by themselves, as it seemed pretty simple. However, Kyle and George’s phone wasn’t working quite right, so they took a 30-mile detour! Not really knowing what was going on, and not wanting to wait too long for them, the main group started off. What would Richard or Lane have done? Michael stayed behind to wait for them until he reached them by phone. It was agreed we would meet at the summit of Mt. Pisgah.

On this brisk, clear spring day, we headed off using trail # 2 all the way to the summit. This section of the hike was the hardest, as we were summiting a mount after all! We were not disappointed with our efforts, as even with some mid- level clouds, the views were magnificent! We took photos, grabbed some water and a snack. However, still no Kyle or George. We decided to press on. What would Richard or Lane have done? Neither one of them are here!

Downhill on to trail #4. A long downhill through lush vegetation and tall trees on a well maintained wide trail. This trail loops around to the northwest side of the recreation area, where it intersects with trail #3. We took this trail to Swing Hill, and fjust as the name suggests, there is a swing in a giant tree. Shannon took advantage of this swing. The rest of us took advantage of the bench situated under the tree, or used branches as seats on the ground to enjoy our lunch while taking in the westerly views.

Michael was able to reach George by phone from here. They were just at the summit of Mt. Pisgah and it was agreed they would just “do their own thing” and not try to catch up with the rest of us.

After lunch we headed out on trail #3 all the way back, practically to the trailhead. This trail is an easy/moderate traverse across the western slope of Mt. Pisgah. This section was a bit muddy and slippery since it had been raining a few days prior to our hike. The trail wound its way around to the south side of the hill affording us beautiful views of the farms below. A pleasant little creek crossing greeted us a short distance before it connected back to trail #2, which was the trail we started out on.

This whole route clocked in at about 7.5 miles. All in all, it was a terrific day of hiking with old and new friends.

“What do you have to do to lead a hike?”, I had asked Lane and Richard. “Just don’t lose anybody”, they said.

“Oh that’s easy enough”, I say to myself. Not so! Kyle and George had trouble finding the trailhead, initially. Thanks go out to them for being good sports about it all. I think they enjoyed the day of hiking despite, being “lost”.

Pictures below by Missy Kroeker

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Jacksonville Forest Park – February 19, 2022

Hike coordinator: Lane Harris

Narration by Lane Harris

In the 1850’s Jacksonville was a thriving gold rush town, and the nearby hillsides were pockmarked with mines. Today, some of those mines are still accessible, but only to those who lay their hiking boots onto the steep trails in Forest Park just outside of town. Although the mines are now blocked with metal gates, one can still peer into the darkness and imagine what it must have felt like to explore these dusky caves that held precious metals.

The trails here can baffle the most educated trail master, and without a trail map you will be dazed and confused by the decisions you must make as to what trails to take. I was struggling to come up a hike to lead at the previous club meeting. I’m now certain that when Richard suggested this one for me, that he was pulling a cruel joke on me. Or, at the very least, testing my navigation skills. So, it was with due diligence that we scheduled a pre-hike with Medford hiking pal Glenn, who knew the trails well. I was feeling a tad under the weather the day of the pre-hike, so Richard and Glenn went by themselves. They were kind enough to take meticulous notes, and I used those notes extensively when I eventually pre hiked the trails myself a week before the scheduled club hike.

You can read Richard’s blog of the pre-hike here: Richard Hikes: Jacksonville Forest Park

On a chilly but clear blue-sky morning, we had no less than 16 hikers gather up at the starting point. I then proceeded to form three hiking teams. The faster hikers, Team Eagle, would follow Glenn. I would lead the monkeys in the middle, aptly named Team Monkey. And Richard would be in the rear leading Team Turtle. After ceremoniously handing out team name labels for everyone to adorn their chests with, we set out on our adventure.

Our route began along Jackson Creek. As we headed up along the creek, it soon became apparent to those who had not been here before as to why they were playing follow-the-leader: Within the first mile there are no less than eight trail intersections that would befuddle the uninitiated. Although detailed trail maps are available and the trail is well signed, its way too easy for new hikers to hesitate at each and every intersection and wonder which route to take. And this is why we pre-hike, boys and girls.

As Glenn, whose radio callsign was Eagle Eye, led his eagles swiftly up the path, trail sweeper Missy, aka Eagle Claw, ensured no little eaglets strayed off course. Except for the time Shannon left her hiking poles back at a bridge, no other oopsies would take place the remainder of the hike.

With my callsign of Monkey See, I entrusted Monkey Do, otherwise known as Rheo, to see that none of the monkeys monkeyed around and got lost. Sadly, I had only brought one banana for myself, leaving the rest of my troop to forage for their own food.

The much smaller group of Team Turtle, led by Turtle Head, consisted of only Richard, Chuck and Michael. It was determined before the hike that the trail sweeper role, which would’ve been Turtle Back, was not required for the small team. Going at a slower pace, Richard does what Richard does, which is photography. Looking back now, his callsign should’ve been Snapping Turtle.

And to no one’s surprise, this hike would be filled with a multitude of animal puns, jokes, and jabs. Yep, we were really behaving like animals by the time we were done.

We transitioned from following Jackson Creek to hiking alongside Norling Creek. Heading up, we took the Shade Creek Trail and eventually connected with the Atsahu Trail. All teams met at our first rendezvous point, the Norling Mine. From here, it was easy walking down what was really an old road. A few more trail junctions and we were at Twin Peaks Saddle. From here, the trail up to Upper Twin Peak is only 1/3 of a mile, but deceptively steep. Team Eagle, in usual fashion, was at the top in no time at all, while Teams Monkey and Turtle slowly trudged their way up the sheer path, stopping to catch a breath every few hundred feet or so.

A well-deserved lunch break was in order at the top, with hikers from each team catching glimpses of Mount McLaughlin off to the east, rising above the valley floor. With all the eagles, monkeys and turtles gathered in one spot, it was like attending a triple-header rock concert. (See what I did there?)

After the animals were fed, it was time to herd them downhill. The trail heading down took us past El Patron Madrone, an impressively huge madrone tree, and then through Mountain Mahogany Meadow. We hit the Owl Hoot, Boulder, and Ol’ Miners’ trails before arriving at the Handsome Mine. Here, everyone got to peek into the dark mine and get some photos with themselves next to, of course, the Handsome Mine sign. After posing for a group photo, the teams continued down the trail, eventually coming out at the road which we drove in on. A short walk along Jackson Creek again brought us back to our starting point.

All in all, this turned out to be a lighthearted hike, and everyone enjoyed the animal-themed event. I’m a believer that Team Monkey had fun, Team Eagle lived life in the fast lane, and Team Turtle was happy together.

Disclaimer: Although reactions to my bad puns during the hike may have hurt me, no animals were harmed in the making of this hike.

More pictures on Richard O’Neill’s Flickr page

Read more about this hike on Richard O’Neill’s blog, Richard Hikes

Pictures below by Richard O’Neill

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Sunset Bay and Cape Arago – February 5, 2022

Hike coordinator: Cleve Moss

Narration by Cleve Moss

This was my first attempt to lead a hike. I had been challenged to lead a hike, as I attend many of the hikes and look forward to them. I had hiked from Sunset Bay to Shore Acres many, many years ago and have wanted to go back again, but had not. And so, I thought if I choose this hike then this would get it off my bucket list.

Thanks to Richard O’Neill for offering information about the trail condition. He had contacted a friend from the Southcoast Striders club, who reported trail closure on the portion of the trail that went by the WWll Bunkers due to trees across the trail. But the lower leg going out to Cape Arago was open.

We left Roseburg with 14 hikers, and 4 others said they would join us at Sunset Bay. The Southcoast Striders asked if they could join us and showed up with 13, making a group of 31 eager souls wanting to see the beautiful foamy, jagged coast line, along with what could be seen on the horizon.

As with any hike on the coast during the winter, the weather is always of concern. As it turned out, it was a wonderful sunny day, with a little breeze. A heavy shirt or light jacket day.

I was trying to figure out how I was going to lead this hike, as there were many who knew the trail better than I, so I pointed at the trail head and gave the instructions to take your time, plan on eating lunch at Cape Arago and “Have Fun.” And away they went. I ended up not leading the hike, but was the last one, with everyone ahead of me. I was not too concerned, for how could you get lost on this hike? Too far in either direction and you either run into the road or fall into the ocean.

As we climbed up to the view points over looking Sunset Bay, the large group of hikers had spread out into several smaller groups. Some groups moved right along while others took their time drinking it all in. The tide was low and going out, making everything seem calm. On the horizon there was a large ship that seemed to be anchored, perhaps waiting for particular conditions before crossing the bar into Coos Bay. There were a couple of small fishing boats out on the water. Cape Arago Light House shined in the sun. Those that like to take pictures had many opportunities, always trying to capture the moment.

The trail skirted around cliffside edges, overlooking the rocks and ocean below. It took us to Shore Acres, and then down past Simpson Beach and to Seal Lion View Point where elephant seals could be seen and heard. Many strained the horizon to see a whale spout, but none could be seen today. We crossed the road and followed the trail that would take us to Cape Arago. When we arrived at the picnic area, the faster hikers were already sitting around tables, enjoying each other’s company, the view, and the nice warm sun, all while having lunch.

On the return trip it was noticeable that the tide had changed and was headed in. Waves were now starting to crash, throwing foamy water into the air. That is what we like to see along the rugged Oregon Coast. That is what makes this hike a favorite for many: White, foamy waves crashing into the air, seals and sea lions, sea gulls floating in the air, the possibility of seeing a whale, ships on the ocean. To be enjoying the outdoors, breathing and relishing the scenery with friends, some of them new, and some we had not seen for a while. It was a good day to be on the coast, and everyone most certainly had “Fun.”