Tunnel Ridge on the Sterling Mine Ditch Trail

This hike on the Sterling Mine Ditch Trail features the tunnel on the Sterling Ditch built by the chinese.

Although this hike is about 9 miles round trip with about 1,100 feet of elevation gain, it is fairly leisurely, especially if enjoyed with others. The wildflowers are blooming, and there is poison oak to be mindful of. There are a few log crossings, and grass has grown on parts of the trail.

Carpooling from Jacksonville Library head to Ruch on Highway 238. Turn left on Upper Applegate Road. After 2.8 miles, turn left on Little Applegate Road. Take Little Applegate Road 9.7 miles to the Tunnel Ridge Trailhead. Parking is on the right.

The first mile of hiking, starting at the Tunnel Ridge trailhead, ascends about 550 feet, and comes to a 4 trail junction.

Make a sharp right, descend a short distance to see what is left of the tunnel through Tunnel Ridge.

Continue on the Sterling Ditch Trail which is level for 2 1/2 miles. Once the trail begins to ascend, walk another 0.6 miles & 230 feet of elevation gain. Watch for a large rock in a meadow. This will be our lunch spot.

After lunch, continue 0.2 miles (a trail map sign is laying on the ground here). Make a sharp left to begin our return trip. This trail is the Little Applegate Bypass.

We complete our final climb, another 170 feet of elevation gain on the Little Applegate Bypass Trail, before descending back down to the Sterling Mine Ditch Trail.

Be sure to turn right on the Sterling Mine Ditch Trail to head back the way we came. Walk 1.7 miles, and pass the tunnel at Tunnel Ridge.

Look for the trail on the left heading down to the Tunnel Ridge trailhead.

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