Hiking in the Basin
By: Heather Harter, Executive Director, Klamath County Chamber of Commerce
Read this article to learn about 6 hikes that you can try yourself this summer.
Hiking is a great way to get healthy – mentally and physically. While you’re strengthening your muscles and your heart, your mind is getting exercise too. In fact, studies have shown that hiking can improve your mood, reduce anxiety, and lower your risk of developing depression. The good news is you don’t have to travel far to get in a good hike. The Klamath Basin is full of trails for all skill levels. Here are a few of my favorites:
Queen of the Lake Trail
This beautiful trail is part of the Spence Mountain Trail System. I love it for the view of the lake, the tall trees, and the birds. My favorite time to hike it is in the morning when it’s cool. It’s 4.4 miles out and back and I would rate it fairly easy. I’ve taken my kids and grandkids on this trail without trouble.
Shoalwater Bay/Eagle Ridge
This trail is located about 17 miles northwest of Klamath and is about 5 miles long. This trail features a great mix of forest and marsh, providing great views on each side of the trail. Along the waterfront, there’s a grove of aspen trees that I enjoy. I see many birds including bald eagles on this trail as well as wildlife like squirrels and chipmunks. This trail is also fairly easy and can be done with kids.
Link River Trail
Located right downtown, this is a great trail. I’d consider this very easy and more of a walk than a hike but it’s worth checking out. It’s about 3 miles out and back and follows the Link River. This is also where you’ll find the original Klamath Falls – just watch for the sign. The trail features the river on one side and a canal on the other. Watch for turtles sunbathing on rocks in the canal. I like this trail during lunch time or evening.
Powerline Trail
Located above the Link River Trail is the Powerline Trail. It follows the powerlines and parallels the Link River. It has spectacular views of the Link River Canyon. It’s a little more difficult than some of the other hikes I’ve shared. I love this trail in the evening during the golden hour.
The Eulalona Trail
Part of the Moore Park trails and gives a beautiful view of Klamath Falls. It’s accessible from Moore Park and is about a mile. It splits into multiple trails that are amazing as well. There are several geocaches along this trail making it fun for people of all ages.
Skillet Handle
This birding trail is located at Running Y. It features views of Buck Island and Modoc Rim. It follows a ridge just above the shoreline of Upper Klamath Lake. I almost always see deer along this trail. There are always birds. I frequently see grebes, pelicans, and egrets here. It’s beautiful in the evening.
There are so many more hikes in the Basin but these are a few of my favorites. I suggest following safety and etiquette guidelines including:
Bring water and a few snacks
Have a trail map handy in case you don’t have service (don’t rely on technology)
Let friends or family know where you’re hiking and when you expect to return
Know your limitations – while most of these hikes are fairly easy, you know your limitations (and those of the people hiking with you) best.
Watch for wildlife. This is their habitat.
Wear sunscreen
Pack out your trash
Bring your camera
You can find information for all these hikes online as well as at the Klamath County Chamber or Discover Klamath. Happy hiking!
