Grizzly Peak Loop Trail

June 23 ,2019

Over the last month we have hiked many local trails enjoying what has become an amazing year for wildflowers. The extra rains we got in Southern Oregon have brought out wildflowers in numbers that we have never seen.  But alas, Spring is over and Summer is upon us.  But there are still places to hike with lots of wildflowers.  The Grizzly Peak trail in Ashland is such a place and since we didn't hike there last year, it was time to go back to one of our favorite trails.

Loop trail at the top heading through Antelope Fire burn area

Wild Ginger --- look for the heart shaped leaves of the plant.

This trail has almost everything you could want - a short road to the trailhead, two parking lots, restroom, and portions of trail that take you through Old Growth Forest, meadows, former burned areas and high desert-like areas of rocky soil.  The first mile is a slight uphill trek on long switchbacks where most of the shade loving flowers are found and the loop at the top is 3.5 miles and can be done in either direction -- we went left today to hike clockwise.

The loop begins - decision time.

Someone heading out for breakfast

Columbine

In addition to the various landscapes along the trail, you are also treated to views of Mt Shasta, Mt Ashland, Pilot Rock, and Mt McLoughlin.  The hike usually takes 2-3 hours depending on how much time you take for the views, wildflowers, or just stopping to enjoy the sound of silence or the wind.   Hope you enjoy the flower pictures, but try to get out and enjoy them in person while they last.  

Trekking Together

Glenn and Carol

False Solomon Seal

Meadow Chickweed

Fleabane

Balsamroot with an insect photo-bomber

Horsemint

Wild Onions

White Brodiaea

Common Camas

One of our favorites to find, Striped Coralroot