The Grouse Loop Trail offers a pleasant hike with good views of the mountains surrounding Applegate Lake. Beginning across Upper Applegate Road from Hart-Tish Park, the trail travels 300 feet to a loop junction. Follow the left fork where the trail then begins a gentle one mile uphill grade, gaining 700 feet in elevation. This gentle climb features a shallow basin of old growth Douglas fir, and Sugar and Ponderosa Pine. From the ridgeline, good views of Elliott Creek ridge and Red Buttes are seen. Leaving this ridgeline, the trail begins a moderate descent back to Hart-Tish park through a mixed conifer and hardwood forest.

Drinking water is available at Hart-Tish park during the spring and summer months only. It is recommended that hikers carry their own water since facilities may be closed at the time of visit. There is no water along the trail. Other facilities at the park include picnic areas, swimming area, boat launch, restrooms, fish cleaning station and a small store.

Directions: From Ruch: Travel south on County Road 859 9 miles past the Star Ranger Station and to Hart-Tish park. A temporary parking area is available 800' north of the trailhead. Plans are to consolidate this and construct an off highway parking area for both Grouse Loop and Collings Mtn. Trails.

Seasonal Access: Normally Accessible: Year-round

Facility Type: Trail