The cry of "Gold!" brought the first American settlers to the Applegate valley in 1852. During the hydraulic mining era (1870s-1880s), great sections of hillside were literally washed away in search of gold.
In 1881, a Chinese "mining boss" named Gin Lin purchased what was known as the "Palmer Creek Diggings." He and his fellow Asian laborers gleaned thousands of dollars worth of gold dust and nuggets from this area.
Some of the dramatic results of Gin Lin's hydraulic mining operations are visible along this trail.
The 3/4 mile-long loop trail begins and ends at this point. Numbered posts along the trail key to explanations in the brochure. Brochures are available in the dispenser box and from Forest Service offices at Star Ranger Station and Medford.
Restrooms at Flumet Flat Campground are open for use during the normal recreation season.
We share the forest with many creatures...be especially aware of these: Rattlesnakes, Ticks, Poison Oak.