Da-Ku-Be-Te-De Trail #940

Anthropologists for a time spelled it Ta’khoo-pee-te-di, or pronounced Daw-Kew-Bee-Tee-Dee. Named for a small band of Native Americans who inhabited the Applegate Valley. The Da-Ku-Be-Te-De Trail is a beautiful, easy day hike that traverses the western shore of Applegate Lake.

Attractions and Considerations: Beginning at Swayne Viewpoint, the trail passes the Hart-tish boat ramp in 0.5 mile. Proceed through the parking lot and rejoin the trail on a paved walkway along the lake, passing an interpretive viewpoint. The paved trail ends at the lawn area above the swimming area, and resumes directly across the lawn where the pavement is replaced by gravel surfacing. The trail follows the lakeshore crossing Copper Boat Ramp, and continues along the high water line before Watkins Campground. Just prior to the campground the trail passes over a footbridge and intersects 0.25 mile loop trail that circles the campground. Take the trail to the right to reach the parking area.

Seasonal Usage: The trail is open to stock from Hart-Tish to Watkins Campground from November through April, providing a rare winter horseback-riding opportunity. Riders must use the short connector trail to Collings Mountain Trail, bypassing Hart-Tish, where stock is prohibited.

Hikers and mountain bikers should yield the right-of-way to pack or saddle animals. Always have your dog on a leash and keep them as quiet as possible around pack and saddle animals. Talk in a normal, calm tone-of-voice to the riders as they first approach. The animals will then see and hear you in advance, rather than being surprised and scared by you. Slowly and steadily, step off the trail at a safe distance. If the riders talk to you as they pass by, engage in the conversation. Avoid sudden movements or loud noises.

To avoid damaging the trail in winter, use only when the trail is dry or frozen.

It is best to carry your own water for this trip, as the camping and picnicking facilities may be closed during the winter and spring months. Poison oak, ticks, and snakes are hazards to be aware of.

Da-Ku-Be-Te-De Trail Recreation Opportunity Guide, with map (PDF)

At a Glance

Fees:	Hart-tish Park charges a vehicle entry fee during the summer months.
Open Season:	Year Round
Usage:	Heavy
Closest Towns:	Ruch, OR Medford, OR Grants Pass, OR
Water:	Not available. Surface water should be treated.
Information Center:	Siskiyou Mountains Ranger District

General Information

Directions:

Access #1: From Ruch, OR, drive south on Upper Applegate Road for 15 miles to the Swayne Viewpoint, located on the left. The trailhead is located at the south end of the parking lot near the restrooms.

Access #2: Continue south approximately ½ mile past Swayne Viewpoint on Upper Applegate Road to Hart-tish Park, on the left. The trailhead is located below the parking area, at the lake’s edge. Hart-Tish Day Use Area requires a $5 fee during the summer months, and is closed November-March.

Access #3: Continue 3 miles south of Hart-tish Park on Upper Applegate Road to Watkins Campground on the left. This is the best staging area for horses.

General Notes: