State: Oregon
Location: Rogue River National Forest
Length, One-Way: 9.2 miles
Trail Type: Out and Back
Minimum Elevation: 2000 feet
Best Season: Year-Round
Difficulty: Moderate
Usage: Moderate
Trail Information
The scenic Payette Trail parallels the eastern shoreline of the Applegate Lake, contouring just above the reservoirs high water level. Several connecting trails provide opportunities for alternate loops. Additionally, three walk-in campgrounds are found along the route including Latgawa, Harr Point and Tipsu Tyee. The camping facilities have restrooms, picnic tables and fire grills. Water is not available on the campground or on the trail. Poison oak, ticks and an occasional rattlesnake are hazards to be aware of.
Beginning at French Gulch campground, the trail contours above the French Arm of the Applegate Lake. Passing through a mixed conifer and hardwood forest, the trail continues along the shoreline for 3.5 miles to the parking area at Squaw Arm. The trail intersects a fire road. Options for following either the road or trail exist for approximately 2 miles before arriving at Squaw Arm parking area. From the parking area, follow the stock driveway south for 400 feet to rejoin the Payette Trail on the right. From this location, Harr Point campground is 0.5 miles, Tipsu Tyee campground 1.5 miles and Manzanita trailhead 5.7 miles.
There are good views of the Applegate Lake, Kinney and Collings Mountains are offered on this section of trail, ending at Manzanita trailhead. Vine maple, black oak and Madrone become the predominant tree species. This would be a good section of trail to view autumn colors.
Directions
To French Gulch Campground from Star Ranger Station:
Drive South on the Upper Applegate Road 8 miles to Applegate Dam and Squaw Lake turnoff. Turn left, crossing the dam and continue 1 mile to French Gulch campground. Facilities available at the campground include restrooms, drinking water and overnight camping ($8/night charge Labor day through Memorial Day, $4 per additional night. No charge off season.)
To Squaw Creek Arm from French Gulch Campground:
Continue southeast on Forest Road 1075 for 2 miles to Forest Road 100. Turn right onto Forest Road 100 and proceed 0.5 mile to the large parking area and stock driveway on the left. There are no facilities.
To Manzanita Trailhead from Star Ranger Station:
Drive south on the Upper Applegate Road 12 miles to the junction with Carberry Creek road. Turn left and continue 1 mile to Forest Road 1041 (Manzanita Creek Road). Turn left and proceed 2 miles to the trailhead. Parking is available in a cul-de-sac at the end of the road next to the gate.
