Sterling Mine Ditch Trail & Big Oak Trail

This hike is about 7 miles with a little over 1,300 feet of elevation gain. Most of this hike is on south facing slopes that are usually warmer than along the Little Applegate River below.

We'll meet at the Jacksonville Library at 9:45am. There are public restrooma here.

From there we'll take Highway 238 to Ruch & turn left on Upper Applegate Road.

We'll take Upper Applegate Road for 2.8 miles, then turn left on Little Applegate Road for 11 miles. The last 5 miles is a well maintained gravel road.

We'll park at the Little Applegate Trailhead. There are no public restrooms here.

The trail begins by climbing almost 350 feet in a little over a half mine, and then completely levels off on the Sterling Mine Ditch Trail.

After about a mile on the Sterling Mine Ditch, the trail climbs again another 300 feet, and then descends a little to meet the Big Oak Trail on the left. At the junction is a white, metal trail sign with a nice map of our entire route.

We'll take the left fork and walk the Big Oak Trail (1.6 miles long). About half way, is a grassy area with a large rock on the right side of the trail. We'll take a break here.

The Big Oak Trail descends further, and is steepest just before we rejoin the Sterling Mine Ditch Trail. There is another white, metal trail sign with a nice map, just like the previously mentioned sign. We'll make a right here to return on the Sterling Mine Ditch Trail.

Once we are back on the Sterling Mine Ditch Trail, we ascend 500 feet in about 1 mile. Just past the summit, walk a couple hundred yards further, and find a nice grassy spot with a view. Our second break will be here.

The Sterling Mine Ditch Trail descends back to the Sterling Mine Ditch, and takes us back to the Little Applegate Trailhead where our cars are parked.

Most of the trail is dry. There are few areas where mud is visible, and holes have been made in the trail by horses.

Plan on bringing food and water. Walking poles may be helpful on ascents and descents.

Feel free to contact Chris by Meetup message or at (541) 261-8167.