Exploring the Bigfoot Trap on Collins Mountain Trail in Oregon.
- Crazydsadventures
- Mar 18, 2024
- 5 min read
The Collins Mountain Trail in Oregon holds a unique place in the world of outdoor adventure and cryptid lore. Among its natural beauty and rugged terrain lies the famous Bigfoot Trap, a relic of one of the most intriguing attempts to capture evidence of the elusive creature known as Bigfoot. This blog post takes you through the history, location, and experience of visiting the Bigfoot Trap on Collins Mountain Trail, offering practical tips and insights for hikers, nature lovers, and curious explorers.
The Story Behind the Bigfoot Trap
In the early 1970s, the Pacific Northwest was buzzing with reports of mysterious large creatures roaming the forests. The legend of Bigfoot, a large, hairy, ape-like being, had captured the imagination of many. In response, a group of local enthusiasts and researchers decided to build a trap to capture Bigfoot alive, or at least to gather undeniable proof of its existence.
The Bigfoot Trap on Collins Mountain Trail was constructed with heavy timbers and steel cables, forming a large cage-like structure. The idea was simple: bait the trap with food and wait for Bigfoot to enter. Although the trap never captured the creature, it remains a fascinating symbol of the region’s folklore and the human desire to uncover the unknown.
Finding the Bigfoot Trap on Collins Mountain Trail
The trap is located along the Collins Mountain Trail, a moderately challenging hiking route in Oregon’s dense forest landscape. The trail itself offers a mix of steep climbs, shaded paths, and scenic viewpoints, making it a rewarding hike beyond the trap’s historical interest.
Getting There
Trailhead Location: The Collins Mountain Trailhead is accessible from a parking area off a forest service road near the town of Estacada, Oregon.
Distance: The hike to the Bigfoot Trap is approximately 3 miles one way, making it a 6-mile round trip.
Trail Difficulty: Moderate, with some steep sections and uneven terrain.
Best Time to Visit: Late spring through early fall offers the best weather and trail conditions.
What to Expect on the Trail
As you hike, you will pass through thick stands of Douglas fir and western red cedar, with occasional clearings that reveal views of the surrounding mountains. The trail is well-marked, but hikers should be prepared with proper footwear, water, and navigation tools.
Exploring the Bigfoot Trap Site
Upon reaching the trap, visitors will find a large wooden structure that stands as a testament to the local fascination with Bigfoot. The trap is weathered but still impressive in size and construction.
Features of the Trap
Size: The trap measures roughly 10 feet by 10 feet, large enough to hold a creature of significant size.
Materials: Built from heavy timber beams and reinforced with steel cables.
Bait Area: Originally, the trap was baited with food such as meat and fruit to attract Bigfoot.
Signage: Informational signs near the trap provide historical context and details about the Bigfoot legend.
What Makes the Trap Special
The Bigfoot Trap is more than just an old cage; it represents a unique blend of folklore, local history, and the human spirit of adventure. It draws visitors who are interested in cryptozoology, outdoor exploration, and Oregon’s cultural heritage.
Tips for Visiting the Bigfoot Trap on Collins Mountain Trail
If you plan to visit the Bigfoot Trap, here are some practical tips to make your trip enjoyable and safe:
Wear sturdy hiking boots to handle the uneven and sometimes muddy trail.
Bring plenty of water and snacks, especially if you plan to explore beyond the trap.
Check weather conditions before heading out, as the trail can be slippery after rain.
Respect the site by not climbing on the trap or disturbing the surrounding environment.
Carry a camera to capture the unique structure and the beautiful forest scenery.
Consider a guided tour if you want to learn more about the local history and Bigfoot lore.
The Bigfoot Trap in Local Culture
The Bigfoot Trap has become a minor tourist attraction and a point of pride for the local community. It features in stories, documentaries, and even annual events celebrating the legend of Bigfoot. The trap also highlights the broader fascination with cryptids and the mysteries hidden in the wilderness.
Local businesses sometimes offer themed merchandise and guided hikes, helping visitors connect with the story and the landscape. The trap’s presence encourages people to explore Oregon’s forests and appreciate the natural environment that fuels so many legends.
Beyond the Trap: Exploring Collins Mountain Trail
While the Bigfoot Trap is a key highlight, the Collins Mountain Trail offers much more for outdoor enthusiasts:
Wildlife Watching: The area is home to deer, birds, and other forest animals.
Flora: Hikers can see a variety of native plants, including wildflowers in season.
Scenic Views: Several lookout points provide panoramic views of the Cascade Mountains.
Photography: The trail’s natural beauty offers excellent opportunities for nature photography.
Safety and Conservation
Visitors should remember that Collins Mountain Trail is part of a protected forest area. Following Leave No Trace principles helps preserve the trail and the trap site for future generations. Staying on marked paths, packing out all trash, and respecting wildlife are essential practices.
In addition, hikers should be prepared for changing weather and carry a map or GPS device. Cell phone reception may be limited in the area.
Things to do in the Area:
Applegate Valley Wine Trail
McKee Covered Bridge
Super Natural Chocolate Company
Applegate Ridge Trail
Southern Oregon Lavender Trail
Williams General Store
Final Thoughts on Hiking to the Bigfoot Trap on Collins Mountain Trail
The hike to Oregon’s famed Bigfoot Trap is more than a quirky destination—it’s a blend of rugged trail adventure and playful folklore. Built in the 1970s by the North American Wildlife Research Team, the trap was a serious attempt to capture Sasquatch, though it never succeeded. Today, it stands as a curious relic tucked deep in the Siskiyou National Forest.
Trail Experience: The Collins Mountain Trail offers a moderately challenging trek, weaving through dense forest and showcasing the wild beauty of southern Oregon. The journey itself is as rewarding as the destination.
Cultural Oddity: The trap embodies the intersection of myth and science, reflecting humanity’s fascination with the unknown. It’s a reminder that exploration isn’t always about certainty—it’s about curiosity.
Atmosphere: Reaching the trap feels both whimsical and eerie. The quiet forest setting amplifies the sense of mystery, making it a memorable stop for hikers who enjoy history with a twist of legend.
Ultimately, the Bigfoot Trap is less about catching Sasquatch and more about catching our imagination—a hike that blends natural beauty with one of Oregon’s most unusual stories.
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