Wandering Cathedral Hills!

This hike through Cathedral Hills is under 5 miles with less than 700 feet of elevation gain. We will have the opportunity to see the Warrior's Plume Flower in bloom.

We'll meet in the parking lot of the Central Point Albertson's away from the store front. Carpooling is a good option because parking is limited at the Espey Trailhead Cathedral Hills. Plan on being at the Espey Trailhead by 10:30am.

To get to the Espey Trailhead Cathedral Hills, get on Interstate 5 heading toward Grants Pass. Take Exit 55 (US-199, Redwood Highway). After 2 1/2 miles on Highway-199, turn left on Highway 238. Head south on Highway 238 leaving Grants Pass for 2.8 miles. Look for a sign to Cathedral Hills. Turn left onto Espey Road for the last 0.3 miles to the Espey Trailhead.

There is a restroom, non flushing, at the Espey Trailhead. Our hike begins on the Outback Trail. Since the Outback Trail forms a loop, we'll head out on the Outback trail heading to the right behind the restroom.

The beginning of the Outback Trail gains about 200 feet of elevation. Trail junction signs are well marked to keep everyone on the Outback Trail. At about 1/2 mile is a large picnic table on our left. Continue straight ahead.

After 1.1 miles, we'll turn right and join the Timber Riders Trail. Turn right again after another 1/4 mile onto the Skycrest Loop Trail.

On the Skycrest Loop Trail, at the furthest switchback, is a viewpoint. We'll take a break here for lunch and snacks.

After lunch, we'll complete the Skycrest Loop Trail which turns into the Skycrest Trail at the end of the Skycrest Loop.

Watch for a trail junction on the right, (a switchback heading down). This is the Skycrest Trail heading down to the Skycrest Trailhead.

At the Skycrest Trailhead there is another restroom (non flushing).

From there, we are heading back on the Madrone Trail, 300 feet of elevation gain.

Turn right on the Timber Riders Trail 0.2 miles to the Outback Trail. Turn left on the Outback Trail heading back the way we came to the Espey Trailhead.

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