Da-Ku-Be-Te-De Trail

The trail can be accessed from several points along Applegate Lake. Common starting points include Swayne Viewpoint, Hart-Tish Day Use Area, and Watkins Campground. These locations typically offer parking facilities.

Yes, the trail is generally dog-friendly. However, it's always best to check local regulations for the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest regarding leash requirements and waste disposal to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone.

The trail is open for use throughout the year, making it accessible in all seasons. For jogging, spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures, while summer can be warm. Winter jogging is possible, but always check conditions for ice or snow, especially after storms.

As the trail is located within the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest, there are generally no specific permits required for day use of the trail itself. However, some day-use areas or campgrounds might have fees. You can check the USDA Forest Service website for the most current information on fees or regulations.

The trail is named in honor of the Da-Ku-Be-Te-De, a small band of Native Americans who historically inhabited the Applegate Valley.

The terrain is largely smooth and reasonably flat, often described as a 'pretty buff' singletrack winding through woods along the lake. While generally flat, expect small undulating hills and occasional rocky stream crossings. Some sections can be narrow and run close to the lake bank. Larger rocks or roots may also be present.

The trail is generally considered to be of moderate difficulty. While it has a 'Blue Rate' for mountain biking, its physical rating for trail running is often described as 'Easy' with 'Green' for climb difficulty. The small undulating hills can accumulate over the 10 km distance, but the overall elevation gain is minimal.

Yes, the trail can be combined with other routes for a longer experience. It intersects with sections of the Collings Mountain Trail #943 and the Grouse Loop Trail #941, allowing for extended loops or varied runs.

You can expect picturesque views of Applegate Lake and the surrounding mountain peaks, including the Red Buttes. The route offers a consistent fun singletrack winding through mostly woods, always along the lake. The Swayne Viewpoint provides a panoramic vista of Applegate Dam and the northeastern portion of the lake.

Beyond the continuous lake views, a notable point of interest in the larger area, specifically on the connecting Collings Mountain Trail, is a unique 'Bigfoot trap'. The trail itself, Da-Ku-Be-Te-De Trail, is a highlight for its scenic lakeside route.

For an average jogger, completing the approximately 10 km (6.3 miles) trail takes around 1 hour and 14 minutes, depending on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the views.