Bigfoot trap facts for kids
The Bigfoot trap is a unique structure found in the Rogue River–Siskiyou National Forest in southern Oregon. It's about 3.1 miles (5.0 km) from the California border. This special trap was built in 1974. Its goal was to catch Bigfoot, a mysterious ape-like creature. Many people believe Bigfoot lives in the wild forests of the Pacific Northwest.
However, the trap never caught Bigfoot. It was left alone in the early 1980s. Today, the United States Forest Service takes care of it. It's now a fun and unusual spot along the Collings Mountain hiking trail. Hundreds of people visit it every year.
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What Does the Bigfoot Trap Look Like?
The trap is a large wooden box. It measures about 10 by 10 feet (3.0 by 3.0 meters). It's made from strong wooden planks. Heavy metal bands hold these planks together. The trap is also secured to the ground with telephone poles.
The U.S. Forest Service gave special permission to build it. For safety, the trap's door has been bolted open since 1980. When it was first built, the trap was in a very remote area. Now, a road is close by because of the Applegate Dam.
How Did the Bigfoot Trap Start?
Building the Trap
The Bigfoot trap was built in 1974. A group called the North American Wildlife Research Team (NAWRT) created it. This group was based in Eugene, Oregon, but it no longer exists.
They were inspired by a miner named Perry Lovell. He lived near the Applegate River. Lovell claimed he found very large, human-like footprints in his garden. These tracks were 18 inches (46 cm) long.
Years of Waiting
NAWRT managed the trap for six years. They kept it baited with animal carcasses. They hoped to lure Bigfoot inside. But the trap only ever caught bears. It never captured the elusive Bigfoot.
The Bigfoot trap was eventually abandoned. Over time, it started to fall apart.
The Trap Today: A Tourist Spot
Repairing the Trap
In 2006, the U.S. Forest Service stepped in. They started a program called "Passport in Time." Through this program, they began to repair the old trap. This helped preserve it for future visitors.
Visiting the Trap
The Bigfoot trap has become a popular tourist attraction. Many people visit it every year. It's a unique piece of local history. At least one film has even been shot at the site.
See Also
- Bigfoot in popular culture
