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Jaws drop upon the first views of this water-filled collapsed volcano at Crater Lake National Park. It is absolutely stunning, as the rocky terrain contrasts with crystal blue water. The massive snowfall this year deluged the park with 52 feet of snow, so visitors will likely see snow into July before Rim Drive around the lake is completely clear. The park is surprisingly pet friendly with five trails that allow pets. These range from short hikes to the challenging Pacific Crest Trail, which passes through the park. Other areas include the overlooks, roads, campgrounds, picnic areas and paved parking lots.

Insider Tip: Plan to arrive at the park early to avoid the crowds.

You will want to take Highway 62, also known as Crater Lake Highway, from Medford to Crater Lake National Park. On the way back, stop at the Rogue River Gorge Viewpoint for a short .3-mile loop trail, which has four viewpoints of the Rogue River Gorge and interpretive signs. It is pet friendly, but some animals may be frightened by the loud rushing water. Right next door is Beckie’s for a pie stop. A little further down Highway 62 is the Natural Bridge Trail. The shorter trail leads to an ancient lava tube where the Rogue River sinks away, running underground before popping back up further downstream. Later in the summer, when water levels are lower, it forms a natural land bridge. The trail is very scenic with plenty of benches for a rest or to enjoy the sounds of the birds chirping and the rushing water. This stop is also pet friendly.

5 O’Clock Somewhere Bar & Grill CompassHotel.com/medford/eat-drink

Beckie’s Cafe UnionCreekOregon.com/dining/beckies-cafe

Southern Oregon Artisan Corridor TravelMedford.org/artisan-corridor

NPS.gov/crla

Rogue Gorge Trail AllTrails.com/trail/us/oregon/rogue-gorge-trail--2

Natural Bridge Trail TravelMedford.org/natural-bridge-trail

BBQ & BANDS 2023

Experience BBQ & Bands this summer at The Culinary Stone! Enjoy our favorite cookout recipes with live music on the patio every Thursday from 5-7pm.

JULY 13: Cheeseburgers | Performance By The Ronaldos

JULY 20: Grilled Chicken Thighs | Performance By Jake Rozier and The Implication

JULY 27: Pulled Pork with Black Elk BBQ Sauce | Performance TBD

AUGUST 3: Street Tacos | Performance By Vinyl Instinct

AUGUST 10: Beef Kabobs | Performance by Jackson Roltgen Trio

AUGUST 17: Tri-Tip | Performance By The Ronaldos

AUGUST 24: Pulled Pork with Black Elk BBQ Sauce | Performance TBD

AUGUST 31: Grilled Chicken Thighs | Performance By Jackson Roltgen Trio

SEPTEMBER 7: Brats | Performance By The Buckley Storms

Schedule subject to change. For the most up-to-date information, visit: WWW.CULINARYSTONE.COM/BBQBANDS

$15 BBQ Meal | $20 BBQ Meal + 1 House Wine or Beer Stop by or call (208)277.4116 to purchase your tickets one week in advance 2129 N. MAIN STREET IN RIVERSTONE | 208.277.4116