State: Oregon
Location: Rogue River National Forest
Length, One-Way: 4.8 miles
Trail Type: Out and Back
Minimum Elevation: 2000 feet
Best Season: Year-Round
Difficulty: Easy
Usage: Heavy
Trail Information
The Da-Ku-Be-Te-De Trail is a beautiful, easy day hike that traverses the western shore of Applegate Lake. Beginning at Swayne Viewpoint, the trail passes the Hart-tish boat ramp in 1/2 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 1/4 mile loop trail that circles the campground. Take the trail to the right to reach the parking area.
Directions
To Swayne Viewpoint from Star Ranger Station:
Drive south on Upper Applegate Road 8 miles to the Swayne Viewpoint parking area. The trailhead is located at the south end of the parking lot near the restrooms.
To Hart-tish Park:
Hart-tish Park is located 1 mile south of Swayne viewpoint on Upper Applegate Road. A vehicle entry fee is charged during the summer months. Hart-tish is closed Nov.- Mar.
To Watkins Campground:
Watkins Campground is located 3 miles south of Hart-tish Park on Upper Applegate Road. This is the best staging area for horses.
