Griffin Gap/Grouse Gulch

This 5.5 mile out and back has a moderate down and uphill again and is just a section of the larger Jack-Ash Trail system. You can extend your hike in either direction but… this has the Hidden Creek Loop trail at the end. Game Changer!

Driving

– The Griffin Gap Trailhead is a 4 minute drive from Interstate 5. Take Exit 21 towards Talent. Turn right on Route 99 and then left onto Colver Road. Colver sweeps to the right and at about mile 3 you turn left onto Pioneer Road. You are on Pioneer for a little more than 1 mile and you will turn left on Coleman Creek Road.

In less than 1 mile Coleman Creek road turns to the left but you continue straight. This slightly smaller paved road is Griffin Creek Road. This dead ends into a ‘T’ where you will turn left onto Anderson Butte Road. You are about half way to the trailhead at mile 7 right here but the next 7 miles are uphill on this road that turns to dirt. It’s a well groomed dirt but it’s a little slower going,

There will be a multiple road intersection on your right that will have a large Griffing Gap trailhead sign (and usually some dispersed campers). You have arrived.

Parking

-You can pull off anywhere in this messy dirt intersection area but I recommend pulling forward as though you are about to take that road downhill to the right, and then pull to the right side of the road.

Hiking

– If you parked like I told you to, you’ll see a very vague trail heading downhill and to the left. That’s the trailhead! It’s about 30 yards from the large sign so ‘aint that a poke in eye. But now you know.

The next 2 miles are a smooth and easy downhill. Lots of views and bear poop. Don’t look up too much or you’ll step in it. Don’t look down too much or you’ll miss the views. A real Catch 22! When you hit the gravel road turn left and soon that road splits left and right. Continue downhill to the right.

In 100 yards you will hit an intersection with a dirt road heading right, but… The Hidden Creep Loop Trail is to your left. The sign is smaller but mighty. That creekside trail heads up along the creek – bridge – and down the other side for less than 1/2 mile. And by “creek” I mean “seasonally moist canyon” so don’t get too excited. At the end of the Loop, turn right and retrace your route back to your car.

In less than 1/2 mile you will

5.5 miles. Hidden Creek. Boom!