Collings Mountain and Da-Ku-Be-Te-De Trail Loop

This loop is rated as moderate overall, but it offers a diverse experience. The Collings Mountain Trail portion, especially its northern half, can be quite strenuous with significant elevation gains and steep sections. In contrast, the southern half of the Collings Mountain Trail is considerably easier. The Da-Ku-Be-Te-De Trail, which follows Applegate Lake, is generally considered a moderate hike.

The loop offers varied terrain and stunning views. On the Collings Mountain Trail, you'll traverse forests of madrone, Douglas-fir, and ponderosa pines, with switchbacks and rocky sections leading to panoramic vistas of Applegate Lake and the Siskiyou Crest. The Da-Ku-Be-Te-De Trail runs along the western shore of Applegate Lake, providing continuous scenic views of the water, often on a narrow path close to the bank.

Yes, the Collings Mountain Trail is known for its distinctive features. You can find an inactive Bigfoot trap, a 10-foot-high wooden hut set in 1963. The area also has a history of Bigfoot sightings. Additionally, you'll pass by abandoned miner's cabins and old gold mine adits from the 1850s and 1860s, reflecting the region's mining past. For safety, entering the old mine tunnels is not advised.

Specific parking information for the trailhead is typically available through the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest service. It's recommended to check the official USDA Forest Service website for the most current details on trailhead access and parking facilities before your visit.

Generally, there are no specific permits required for day hiking on the Collings Mountain Trail or the Da-Ku-Be-Te-De Trail within the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest. However, some areas within National Forests may require a recreation pass for parking or specific activities. Always check the official USDA Forest Service website for the latest regulations and any potential fees for the specific trailhead you plan to use: usda.gov.

Yes, this loop is generally dog-friendly. However, it's crucial to keep your dog on a leash at all times to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all hikers. Always pack out any waste to maintain the trail's natural beauty.

Spring and fall are often considered the best times to hike this loop, offering pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. Spring brings wildflowers, while fall showcases beautiful foliage. Summer can be hot, especially on exposed sections, so an early start is recommended. Winter hiking might be possible, but be prepared for colder temperatures and potential snow or ice, particularly on higher elevations of the Collings Mountain Trail.

The loop primarily consists of sections of the Collings Mountain Trail (#943) and the Da-Ku-Be-Te-De Trail (#940). A smaller portion of the Grouse Loop Trail (#941) is also included in the route.

Absolutely! The Collings Mountain Trail offers panoramic vistas of Applegate Lake and the surrounding Siskiyou Crest. On the Da-Ku-Be-Te-De Trail, the Swayne Viewpoint provides stunning panoramic views of the Applegate Dam, the Intake Tower, and the northeastern part of the lake, framed by mountain peaks.

Given the trail's moderate difficulty and length (approximately 15.8 km), it's essential to bring plenty of water, snacks, appropriate hiking footwear, and layers of clothing suitable for changing weather conditions. Sun protection (hat, sunscreen) is also recommended, especially during warmer months. A map or GPS device is always a good idea for navigation.

While the loop can be hiked in either direction, some hikers prefer to tackle the more strenuous northern half of the Collings Mountain Trail first, getting the significant elevation gains out of the way early. This allows for a more gradual descent and a more relaxed finish along the scenic Da-Ku-Be-Te-De Trail by Applegate Lake.