Joseph H Stewart State Recreation Area

January 21 ,2019

Since it has rained almost 4 straight days here in Southern Oregon and today was a holiday, it seemed that the only logical thing to do since the sun came out was to hike.  Since most trails in the area were either under water or now consisting of mud, we headed up to Joseph H Stewart State Recreational Area where we knew a paved hiking path and views of Lost Creek Lake awaited us.

It seems that each year we hike at Stewart in January or February, which may be due to the paved hiking path as mentioned,  but also because the various waterfalls along the trail actually have water at this time of year and the campground area has very few (if any) folks in it which make for a nice scenic quiet hike through woods and along the lake shore.

Trail heading through a forested area near Peyton Bridge

View from trail of large meadows within the park

One of several waterfalls along or near the trail

We started at the day use area and followed various bike and hiking paths for a counter clockwise loop hike of 6.3 miles.  We had a mix of sun and clouds which provided numerous picture opportunities and although not completely full, the lake was beautiful and we even spotted a couple of boats out today.  There was also a dusting of snow on one of the nearby mountain tops as a background to the lake.

Clouds made for some great pictures throughout our hike today.

A light dusting of snow on the mountains around the lake.

Lost Creek Lake

If you are looking for a paved hike this time of year, Joseph H Stewart State Recreation Area is a great place to try out and it is only about 40 minutes from Medford.  There are numerous ways to hike or bike along the various paths and trails, so you can create your own route and length.  Although we did not stay after our hike, there are also picnic areas along the lake shore which provide a great place to eat, talk or just relax before or after some time outdoors.  Plus the day use area is free.  What a deal!

Trekking Together
Glenn & Carol

Lunch with a view?