Travel Southern Oregon - 2022 by Oregon Media

Visitor Guide 2022

The PACIFIC NORTHWEST’S #1 RIVER TRIP!

your adventure awaits adventure through the Historic Hellgate Canyon on the Wild and Scenic Rogue River

H E L L G AT E . C O M LOCATED OFF I-5 IN GRANTS PASS OREGON *All trips subject to water levels. Departure times vary. Runs daily May-September

541- 479-7204

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ADVENTURE

MAP

WELCOME TO SOUTHERN OREGON! As you will soon find out for yourself, this is a very special place. Stretching from the sea to the desert, with mountains, lakes and rivers in between, this diverse and welcoming region comprises the lower left quadrant of Oregon and delivers endless delights. Five major regions make up this part of the state. In these pages, you’ll learn more about the Rogue Valley, the Umpqua Valley, the Klamath Basin, the Oregon Outback and the Oregon Coast. The delights of the outdoors, arts and culture, culinary, wine and lodging are brought to life here. We hope you’ll be inspired to make plans to visit one or all of our regions on your own. Come one, come all—wine lover, theatergoer, history buff, hiker, cyclist, angler, birdwatcher, nature-lover—and see what we’re all about. See you soon! Bob Hackett Executive Director Travel Southern Oregon

On The Cover Crater Lake is Southern Oregon's jewel and one of the most popular places to visit in the state. More than 750,000 people flock to the natural wonder each year that is also Oregon's only national park. Stay for a weekend or drop by while you're on the road—Crater Lake is always worth a visit. Photo courtesy of Dennis Frates / Alamy Stock Photo About Travel Southern Oregon The 2021-22 Travel Southern Oregon Guide is the annual publication of Travel Southern Oregon (TSO). For more information about TSO or to become a member, please visit us at southernoregon.org or call 541-708-1994. About This Guide The guidebook is published annually by Oregon Media, LLC. While every effort has been made to provide up-todate information, the publisher assumes no responsibility for the accuracy of its contents. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without express written permission of the publisher. For advertising information, please contact ross@oregonmedia.com.

GrantsPass Pass Grants

Jacksonville Jacksonville

Winston Winston

Proudly printed in Oregon.

Funded in part by

Elkton Butterfly Pavilion

AMERICA’S BYWAYS

Volcanic Legacy

Umpqua Lighthouse State Park Shore Acres State Park Bullards Beach State Park

NATIONAL SCENIC BYWAYS

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Pacific Coast Umpqua

NORTH UMPQUA RIVER

Rogue-Umpqua

Fort Rock State Park & Homestead Museum

Toketee Falls

Sand Dunes

Crack-in-the Ground

Outback Wildlife Safari

Cape Blanco State Park

CANYONVILLE

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H R UT VE SO A RI QU MP

Summer Lake State Wildlife Management Area

U Rogue River Gorge Natural Bridge Stewart State Park

Humbug Mountain State Park

Collier Mem. State Park & Logging Museum

SHADY COVE

CHILOQUIN Gearhart Mt. Wilderness Area

Valley of the Rogue State Park

Cape Sebastian State Scenic Overview

ILLINOIS RIVER

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JACKSONVILLE

Illinois River Forks State Park

Britt Festival Oregon Caves Nat'l Monument

Harris Beach State Park

Oregon Shakespeare Festival Tub Springs State Wayside

SIP, SKI, AND SIGHTSEE YOUR WAY THROUGH FOUR SEASONS

TravelAshland.com

MEDFORD - The Heart of Sports and Recreation

Rogue Credit Union Community Complex; opening 2023

US Cellular Community Complex

Nine Professional Golf Courses

Gold Hill Whitewater Center; Rogue River

Prescott Park

ALL SPORTS, ALL ROGUE Medford, the heart of the Rogue Valley and Southern Oregon, offers premier recreation opportunities and sporting venues for the amateur, youth and collegiate levels. Situated halfway between Portland and San Francisco, the Rogue Valley is quickly being recognized for its natural competition terrain, stateof-the-art competitive and recreational venues, and a world-class destination for tourists and their families.

volleyball, pickleball, wrestling, cheer and dance competitions, and more.

Slated to open in early 2023, a new indoor 90,000 square foot center for sports and aquatics will offer both leisure and competitive activities. The Rogue Credit Union Community Complex will boast competition and recreation pools, meeting space, and room for eight basketball courts and any variation for

Gold Hill Whitewater Center Sports: Rafting, Kayaking, Stand-up Paddle boarding; contender for 2028 Olympic paddle events

The site will also feature food trucks, concessions and an information center to accommodate visitors and locals, alike. OTHER VENUES: U.S. Cellular Community Park Sports: Baseball, Softball, Soccer, Football, Rugby; 32 acres with 15 fields

Prescott Park Sports: Running, Biking, Equestrian; 1,740 acres and 34 miles of trails

SOUTHERNOREGONSPORTS.COM

Extraordinary SETTING

FOR

Extraordinary WINES.

Just ﬁve miles from the heart of downtown Ashland, Irvine & Roberts offers some of the Rogue Valley’s most thrilling Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays in a panoramic setting. Visit our tasting room, enjoy local small plates, and take in the view that changed our lives.

1614 Emigrant Creek Rd. Ashland, Oregon 541.482.9383 irvinerobertsvineyards.com

BELLE FIORE WINERY, ESTATE AND VINEYARD

Ashland’s Premiere Destination Winery

541-552-4900 www.belleﬁorewine.com

100 Belle Fiore Lane | Ashland

E D I U G R O T I VIS 2022

CRATER LAKE

ROGUE VALLEY

UMPQUA VALLEY

PHOTO TOP MIDDLE SEAN BAGSHAW, TOP RIGHT TONI TORENO, BOTTOM MIDDLE JAK WONDERLY

KLAMATH BASIN

18 SOUTHERN OREGON COAST

OREGON OUTBACK

OUTDOORS ............... 27

ARTS & CULTURE ..... 41

24 CULINARY & WINE.... 49

Biking

Theater

Culinary

Hiking

Heritage

Wine

Golf

Music & Arts

Rafting & Fishing

Family Friendly

LODGING .................... 71 REGIONAL INFO ...... 77

DO SOMETHING GREAT  7

We Love Southern Oregon Too!

EXPLORE SOUTHERN OREGON. STAY IN COMFORT.

ENDLESS WAYS TO PLAY. From mountain trails with breathtaking vistas, undiscovered wine country, crystal-clear lakes and rivers, charming towns, delightful food scene and world-class theatre productions, your getaway awaits. Now more than ever, experience our region’s endless open spaces and rejuvenate in comfort and safety at one of our boutique hotels.

OFFICE NOW OPEN IN JACKSONVILLE 620 N 5th Street

Luxury is an Experience Not a Price Point Explore over 20,000 properties in Oregon

CascadeSir.com BOOK YOUR ADVENTURE. NeumanHotelGroup.com

Each office is independently owned & operated LOCAL TASTE. STYLISH COMFORT.

Ashland Springs Hotel • Lithia Springs Resort & Wine Garden Ashland Hills Hotel & Suites • LARKS • Luna Cafe • Waterstone Spa

DU R EGION AL R O U N

Fort Rock

UNDUP O R L A REGION

A world of discovery awaits you in each of the five unique regions of Southern Oregon. From rich culture and heritage to stunning scenery and adventure, discover new experiences at every step. Begin in the Rogue Valley, a lush region to the south, before making your way to the picturesque Umpqua Valley to the north. The expansive Klamath Basin and rugged Oregon Outback beckon to explorers in the eastern part of the region, and the Southern Oregon Coast to the west offers miles of beaches and tide pools.

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PHOTOS THIS SPREAD SEAN BAGSHAW

EXPERIENCE ADVENTURE

Rogue River

Coquille River Lighthosue, Bandon

DO SOMETHING GREAT  11

DU R EGION AL R O U N

RICH CULTURE SURROUNDED BY INCREDIBLE SCENERY Southern Oregon portrays beauty through its history, events and a stunning natural backdrop. Outdoor adventure, historical exploration, cultural thrills and delicious bites are around every corner. Whether you’re looking for wide-open spaces or cities to savor, you’ll find it here.

Nature Natural beauty is at its best here, from seashore to desert and river to mountain peak. This region’s most famous wonder is Crater Lake, that sapphire jewel and geological marvel nestled high in the mountains. Southern Oregon is also home to wildlife refuges, sparkling rivers, publicly owned beaches and designated historical sites. Boat or hike the Rogue, Umpqua or Illinois, all designated Wild and Scenic Rivers. Salmon-fish the offshore waters of the Pacific Ocean. Watch the sky come alive with birds, catch a trophy redband trout, or paddle 15,000 acres of calm water in the Klamath Basin. Gaze upon geologic wonders or soak in a hot spring.

Toketee Falls

From the earliest days of Native culture, to non-Native settlement, and up to the modern era, Southern Oregon has been home to visionaries. Visit historic gold rush towns captured in time, river valleys settled during the Oregon Trail era, forest villages built on timber and seafront settlements home to generations of fishermen. Within each, find a rich cultural vibe. Consider the Oregon Shakespeare Festival, founded in 1935 and grown to become an internationally renowned repertory theater. The Britt Festival, the first outdoor music festival in the Northwest, is still going strong after nearly six decades. Native American history and culture are alive at the Favell Museum in Klamath Falls, or visit the Art Deco Ross Ragland Theater downtown for performing arts.

Oregon Shakespeare Festival

Culinary The wine and dining scenes are thriving here, and why wouldn’t they be? The land is rich and made for growing wine grapes and delicious foods, and the rivers and ocean run with fish and seafood. Don’t worry about finding satisfying sustenance on your Southern Oregon adventures. Quench your thirst and keep your hunger at bay with bites and sips from local purveyors every step of the way.

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Roxy Ann Winery

PHOTO MIDDLE GREG VAUGHN / ALAMY STOCK PHOTO, BOTTOM AND OPPOSITE PAGE JAK WONDERLY

Culture

SCENIC BYWAYS Enjoy the journey as much as the destination on these lovely drives.

ROGUE-UMPQUA SCENIC BYWAY The Rogue-Umpqua Scenic Byway first travels up the North Umpqua River from I-5 at Roseburg, then journeys down the Upper Rogue River to Gold Hill. The 172-mile tour delivers views of fir forests, whitewater rapids, waterfalls and gorges carved into mountains. The Rogue and the Umpqua rivers are two of Oregon’s finest stretches of water, each renowned for fishing, rafting and scenery.

OREGON OUTBACK SCENIC BYWAY Geologic wonders, wildlife and alkali flats distinguish this 171-mile scenic drive, which travels from La Pine south through Lakeview to the state line, passing Fort Rock, Picture Rock Pass, Summer Lake, Abert Rim and Old Perpetual Geyser on the way. The views in Oregon’s section of the Great Basin stretch across sagebrush as far as the eye can see.

PACIFIC COAST SCENIC BYWAY Journey past sandy beaches, rocky cliffs, scenic tidepools, crashing waves and charming beach towns full of culture and character. The Oregon Coast is famous for expansive views and a diverse landscape, and this byway travels along its entire glorious 363-mile stretch. Perhaps you’ll spot a migrating grey whale making the journey alongside you.

UMPQUA RIVER SCENIC BYWAY Travel through historic towns known for rich natural resources that attracted fur traders, loggers, fishermen and farmers more than a century ago. This sixty-six-mile journey takes in the lower Umpqua River on its path to the sea. Follow the highway along the river through the beautiful forests of the Coast Range, ending in Reedsport and the Pacific Ocean.

Hells Canyon, Rogue-Umpqua Scenic Byway

VOLCANIC LEGACY SCENIC BYWAY ALL AMERICAN ROAD Beginning at Lake Almanor in the south and traveling to Crater Lake in the north, the byway passes Mount Shasta, Lava Beds National Monument and much more. This 500-mile journey from volcano to volcano provides not only a glimpse of this region’s volcanic past, but also opportunity for adventure, exploration, nature and culture.

DO SOMETHING GREAT  13

DU R EGION AL R O U N

At nearly 2,000 feet deep, Crater Lake is the deepest lake in the United States and the second deepest in all of North America.

CRATER LAKE Oregon’s crown jewel, Crater Lake, was formed nearly 8,000 years ago. Old Mount Mazama erupted in a cataclysmic explosion where rock and lava collapsed into the mountain’s center, creating a massive caldera in place of what had been a 12,000-foot peak. This caldera filled with rain and snow over centuries to become the scenic wonder Crater Lake, Oregon’s only national park.

Tour the thirty-three mile Rim Drive, stopping at viewpoints and interpretive signs along the way. Or forgo the driving and take the Crater Lake Trolley tour. Visit historic Crater Lake Lodge, built in 1915 and perched 1,000 feet above the lake surface. Explore Steel Visitor Center or Rim Village Visitor Center to learn more about the park and its natural wonders. Take a boat tour to Wizard Island, a cinder cone within the caldera that rises from the lake. Hike along trails that lead to stunning views of the lake and its surrounding region.

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Crater Lake

PHOTO BOTTOM TONI TORENO

At nearly 2,000 feet deep, Crater Lake is the deepest lake in the United States and the second deepest in all of North America. Thousands of visitors each year peer into its impossibly blue, pristine waters. The park is open year-round, but receives a remarkable forty-four feet of snow annually. Only the south entrance is plowed to the rim in the winter.

THE CIRCLE OF DISCOVERY A driving tour of natural wonders North America’s deepest lake, tallest trees, steamiest hydrothermal areas, finest marble caves and most dramatic waterfalls are protected in seven national park sites in Southern Oregon and Northern California. This is the Circle of Discovery, a multiday family road trip full of adventure and fun. Begin your journey in Redwood National Park on the Northern California coast. The coast redwood has existed in this region for 20 million years, can live 2,000 years, grows from a seed the same size as a tomato’s to reach heights of up to 367 feet and can have a width of twenty-two feet at its base. Walk among the impressive trees in misty coastal air. Redwood National Park

From the Redwoods, go north sixty miles into Oregon’s Siskiyou Mountains to the Oregon Caves National Monument. Eons of acidic rain seeped through the soil in this ancient forest to erode the rock underneath, resulting in some of the few marble caves in the world. Walk trails and step inside the visitor center. From Oregon Caves, travel 150 miles through the rich Rogue Valley to Crater Lake National Park. The south entrance is open year-round. In winter, call on the visitor’s center and peer into the snow-surrounded waters of the lake. In summer, drive the rim and have lunch at the historic Crater Lake Lodge.

PHOTO MIDDLE JAK WONDERLY, BOTTOM KAMRIN NIELSEN PHOTO VIDEO

Oregon Caves National Monument

Drop south from Crater Lake sixty miles through the outdoorcentric town of Klamath Falls. Another ten miles south is Tule Lake National Monument, the site of the Tule Lake Segregation Center, where Japanese Americans were incarcerated during World War II. (Open by tour only.) Thirty miles farther is Lava Beds National Monument, where volcanic eruptions over a half-million years created a fascinating landscape. Explore one of this area’s 700 lava tube caves, selfguided or on a tour, and don’t miss many examples of Native American rock art throughout the landscape. Lassen Volcanic National Park is 140 miles south of Lava Beds NM. Lassen Peak and the surrounding area shelter every kind of volcano found in the world. Explore hydrothermal sites such as bubbling mud pots, fumaroles and spurting steam vents.

Lava Beds National Monument

Finish the Circle of Discovery at Whiskeytown National Recreation Area, where the history of the California Gold Rush is surrounded by lakes, waterfalls and creeks.

DO SOMETHING GREAT  15

ROGUE VALLEY The diverse landscape of the Rogue Valley is filled with beauty, culture and history everywhere you go. The Rogue River stretches from Crater Lake into the Rogue Valley, creating dramatic landscape along canyon walls. The small community of Union Creek on the Upper Rogue River is like a summer camp captured in time, offering rustic cabin stays, handmade ice cream and a hike along the Rogue Gorge, a scenic canyon offering breathtaking views. Continue south to Shady Cove, where in the summer hundreds of eager river rafters float the calmer waters of the majestic Rogue. A launching point for jet boats racing into Hellgate Canyon, Grants Pass also sits on the Rogue River and is perfect for aquatic activities like fishing, kayaking and rafting. Medford is the pinnacle city in the region and acts as a hub of commerce for Southern Oregon. The Rogue Valley Airport (MFR) has forty flights a day coming to and from Medford. The city is sandwiched between Rogue Creamery

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Central Point and Eagle Point, two smaller towns with big things to experience. Check out the new Rogue Valley Food Trail for farm-to-table dining and award-winning cheeses to vineyards and orchards in a rich landscape and mild climate. Ashland, home to mountain bikers and theatergoers, has a vibrant downtown district. Home of the renowned Oregon Shakespeare Festival, visitors and locals alike catch performances indoors and out from spring until fall. Southern Oregon University is here, too, giving Ashland that lively, college-town feel. Outdoor adventure is on hand, with trails right in town coupled with access to mountains and lakes. Founded in 1851 as a Gold Rush town, history is alive in Jacksonville; the former boom town has more than 100 historic buildings marking Main Street. Home to the Britt Music & Arts Festival, the Pacific Northwest’s premier outdoor summer performing arts festival, and also gateway to the Applegate Valley, an early settlement and today’s wine country. As it splits from the Rogue, the Illinois River travels south along the Redwood Highway west of Grants Pass. Do some world-famous fishing, stop for jerky at Taylor’s Sausage in Cave Junction and visit the Oregon Caves National Monument and Preserve, known as the marble halls of Oregon, and the adjacent historic beauty Chateau at the Oregon Caves.

Rogue RogueValley Valley

PHOTO BOTTOM SARIT RICHERSON / ALAMY STOCK PHOTO, INSET JAK WONDERLY

DU R EGION AL R O U N

Watson Falls

Diamond Lake and Mount Thielsen

UMPQUA VALLEY Descending from alpine peaks to sandy shores, the Umpqua Valley delivers scenic beauty and recreational abundance every step of the way. Your Umpqua tour begins high in the Cascade Mountains at Diamond Lake, where year-round outdoor play complements the alpine scenery and views of majestic Mount Thielsen. In the winter, a visit to Diamond Lake is about snowmobiling, tubing and skiing, while summer pursuits turn to hiking, cycling, swimming and lots of fishing for rainbow trout. Just downriver on the Umpqua Scenic Byway, look out for short hikes to some of the corridor’s incredible seventeen waterfalls. Looking for bigger adventure? Try whitewater rafting, or hit the North Umpqua Trail where seventy-one miles of rugged singletrack are perfectly laid out for the avid mountain biker. The Umpqua River is perhaps most famous for fly-fishing opportunities. Cast a line for the legendary steelhead in spring and fall; hire a guide or wade the waters on your own. Make a stop in the biggest city in the Umpqua Valley, Roseburg. With riverfront parks, farm-to-table dining and a plethora of wineries to explore, take your time checking out this cool city. Live

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music lights up the waterfront in summer for Music on the Halfshell at Stewart Park. The historic downtown is alive with tree-lined sidewalks, friendly shops, restaurants and a couple of craft breweries. Take the self-guided Roseburg Blast tour to learn about the explosion that leveled part of downtown in 1959. Get up close and personal to lions, tigers and bears at Wildlife Safari, Oregon’s drive-through zoo, in Winston. This small town also nurtures award-winning wineries, including Abacela and Spangler. Dive into history at the Pioneer Indian Museum, the historic covered Milo Academy Bridge and the Applegate Trail Interpretive Kiosk. Canyonville offers a slice of excitement at the Seven Feathers Casino Resort, where gaming and entertainment are on hand. The marvelous Umpqua River journeys further west through Sutherlin, Elkton and the Coast Range along Highway 138. Elkton is a small town with big maple trees and bigger charm. Visit cafes, bakeries, general stores and more wineries. Take in the simple beauty of insects and flowers at the Butterfly Pavilion and Garden, dedicated to education about the native Monarch butterfly. Nearby is Fort Umpqua, a replica of the historic fort constructed in the mid-1800s as the southernmost outpost of the Hudson’s Bay Company.

PHOTO BOTTOM LEFT JONI KABANA, RIGHT PRISMA BY DUKAS PRESSEAGENTUR GMBH / ALAMY STOCK PHOTO

Umpqua Valley Farmers’ Market, Roseburg

WISH YOU WERE HERE.

DU R EGION AL R O U N

The Upper Klamath National Wildlife Refuge and Klamath Marsh National Wildlife Refuge attract more than 350 species of birds.

Lake of the Woods Upper Klamath Lake and Mount McLoughlin

KLAMATH BASIN Oversized lakes, expansive skies, more than enough space for every outdoor pursuit you can think of and the highest concentration of bald eagles in the lower forty-eight states; welcome to the Klamath Basin.

Rocky Point Resort, which sits on Pelican Bay on the west shore of Upper Klamath Lake, is just a short journey north. Towering Ponderosa pines and a clear blue lake mark this longstanding lakeside fishing resort. Kayaking and canoeing are popular here. In the heart of the Pacific Flyway, the largest migratory bird route in the west, lies Upper Klamath Lake, the nearby Upper Klamath National Wildlife Refuge and Klamath Marsh National Wildlife Refuge. This region attracts more than 350 species of birds, including sandhill cranes, pelicans and hawks. In February, check out the country’s oldest birdwatching festival, the Winter Wings Festival. Chiloquin, born as a campout of the Klamath Tribes, became a bustling timber and railroad center in the state. Today, the outpost

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is home to Train Mountain, Two Rivers Art Gallery & Visitor Center, the Kla-Mo-Ya Casino and a small town Fourth of July parade. As the name might suggest, Klamath Falls is the region’s primary city, located on the banks of Klamath Lake and the Klamath River. Take in the historic downtown, where entertainment in dining, theater, arts and shopping abound. Embark on the downtown walking tour to discover local history and architecture. Buildings in Art Deco and Gothic Revival illustrate downtown, as do artistic murals. To learn about life in the basin over the years and to immerse yourself in Native American artifacts and Western art, head to the Favell Museum and the Klamath County Museum. Nature abounds here, too. Ride the many mountain biking trails, explore Moore Park or stroll a portion of the OC&E Woods Line State Trail, a rail-to-trail conversion.

PHOTO TOP TOBY NOLAN, INSET JAK WONDERLY

Perfect for a family getaway, your tour starts at Lake of the Woods, a high mountain resort retreat complete with camping, fishing, boating and more. Spend the day hiking or boating, or simply soak up the remote beauty, and come back to your choice of thirty-four cabins. Grab a meal at the restaurant and bar overlooking the lake for a scenic bite you won’t soon forget.

THE GATEWAY TO CRATER LAKE

888.552.6692 | klamoyacasino.com • 34333 HWY 97 N. CHILOQUIN, OR

VEGAS-STYLE SLOTS

SLEEP INN HOTEL

FULL MENU RESTAURANT

TRAVEL CENTER

THE KLAMATH TRIBES WELCOME YOU. •••••••••••••

Refuel all of your needs at our Full Service Travel Center and Sleep Inn Hotel.

OREGON OUTBACK For a taste of rural Oregon, check out the Oregon Outback. The wide-open blue sky hovers over a rimrock and sage landscape, a breathtaking expanse as far as the eye can see. Some people might think there isn’t much out here, but others would say that’s the point. It’s peaceful and beautiful, with plenty to explore in culture, history and geology. The region’s anchor, Lakeview, is located at Oregon’s southernmost end of Highway 395. Boasting the title of the tallest town in Oregon, Lakeview sits at 4,800 feet on the flanks of the Warner Mountains, with a view of the valley. Lakeview is known for its summer rodeo and round-up, with barrel races, country music and rodeo queens. 2019 marked the 100th anniversary of the Lake County Round-Up.

or purchase some from a miner or store. Hart Mountain is largely designated as a wildlife refuge that shelters antelope and sage grouse. A hot spring is perched on top of the mountain, too. A friendly nod to one of the town’s “residents,” the town of Paisley hosts an annual mosquito festival. Just north is Summer Lake Hot Springs, a developed retreat offering soaking pools to registered guests, camping and lodging options. Summer Lake is an alkaline lake that glimmers under the shadow of Winter Rim, both named by John Fremont during his mapmaking exploration of Oregon. Filled with sand dunes, not snow, Christmas Valley is a small town known for attracting ATV enthusiasts year-round. Oregon Outback country’s northern boundary is marked by Fort Rock, an immense volcanic tuff ring visible from miles away. Stroll around and take in the scenery and that wide-open sky.

The Warner Canyon Ski Area sits just a short drive north from Lakeview, one of Oregon’s best-kept secrets for lovers of snow and slopes. Since 1938, this little hill has been a local labor of love, with one lift and twenty-one runs. From the 6,400-foot summit, view the grassland valley below. Travel through the mountains east of Warner Canyon and visit a town called Plush. Oregon’s state gemstone, the sunstone, is born under the desert floor here, in the shadows of the steep flanks of Hart Mountain. Dig for your own sunstones in a public mining area Fort Rock

Summer Lake Hot Springs

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PHOTO BOTTOM JAK WONDERLY, INSET TROY MCMULLIN / ALAMY STOCK PHOTO

DU R EGION AL R O U N

We promote economic stability, support the interest of local business, enhance local growth, and maintain the quality of life in Lake County, Oregon. Visit our website to learn more about the Lake County Chamber of Commerce, member benefits and beautiful Lake County. We offer a new experience across our county while maintaining our cowboy culture. Come out and visit us in the Outback of Lake County.

AllAboutLakeCounty.com

Lake County Chamber of Commerce • 126 NE Street, Lakeview, Oregon • (541) 947-6040

Kick Your Boots Off & Stay Awhile

DU R EGION AL R O U N

Bandon

SOUTHERN OREGON COAST The Oregon Coast is grand seascapes and comfortable beach living in all of its majesty; crashing waves, sandy beaches, scenic vistas and clam chowder. Jaw-dropping beauty can be found on all 363 miles of the Pacific Coast Scenic Byway. The southern section is known for its rural, rugged and craggy demeanor—all scenery and few people. Just over the Oregon-California border in Brookings, visitors can start their tour. Visit Azalea Park for lush floral gardens and Harris Beach State Park to see offshore sea stacks that are home to a variety of nesting birds, including the tufted puffin. Old-growth redwood forests, art walks and kite festivals are more Brookings discoveries. The next city north, Gold Beach, is named for the gold found in the beach sand in the 1850s. The gold is no more, but riches remain. Fishing for salmon, jet boating on the Rogue River and crabbing are popular activities. Catch a festival here, from classic cars to brews to art. Experience the rich history of Port Orford, the oldest platted townsite on the Oregon Coast. Visit Battle Rock Historical Park, the site of a famous battle between Native Americans and early settlers. Port Orford is also well-known for terrific art galleries, fine seafood dining and the Cape Blanco Lighthouse, the oldest and most westerly lighthouse in Oregon.

Oregon Dunes

Cape Blanco Lighthouse is the oldest and most westerly lighthouse in Oregon.

First famous for cheese, and more recently, for golf, Bandon is next on the tour. This picturesque small city boasts world-class links-style golf courses that attract visitors from all over the world. The cheese is still excellent here, as are the cranberries that come out of local bogs. Coos Bay and North Bend comprise the Southern Coast’s largest cities and biggest population bases. The historic logging and fishing communities are surrounded by natural beauty, and Cape Arago and Shore Acres State Parks are scenic don’t-miss natural destinations. Watch for whales and storms from these rugged cliffs. Sitting at the heart of the Oregon Dunes is Reedsport, a little city at the mouth of the Umpqua River. Find direct access to the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, a forty-seven-mile stretch loved by hikers, nature lovers and ATV enthusiasts alike.

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Cape Blanco Lighthouse

THE

OREGON COAST visittheoregoncoast.com Funded in part by Photo by Cort Muller

Devil’s Kitchen, Bandon, Oregon

HISTORIC DOWNTOWN

ADVENTURE

WINE & DINE

STAY & PLAY

GALLERIES MUSEUMS PERFORMING ARTS PUBLIC ART GROWERS MARKET LOCAL SHOPS

RAFTING JET BOATS HIKING & BIKING FISHING GOLFING ZIP LINES

RESTAURANTS CAFÉ & BISTROS DINERS WINE TASTING CRAFT BREWERIES FOOD TRUCKS

HOTELS & LODGES GYMS & SPAS SPECIALTY TOURS WILD & SCENIC LOCAL EVENTS THE HUB

TravelGrantsPass.com

OU T D O O R S

Rogue River

RS O O D T U O

PHOTO ADAM MCKIBBEN

CHART A COURSE FOR SCENERY AND ADVENTURE From the sandy seashore to the expansive high desert, the outdoors is where life in Southern Oregon really starts to cook. Come join us to play on river rapids, mountain trails, ocean waves, desert playas and forest acres—there’s plenty of space and no shortage of places to explore. Whether you’re looking for active adventure or a picnic in the park, it’s all here in Southern Oregon.

DO SOMETHING GREAT  27

OU T D O O R S Sand Dunes and Tide Pools At Cape Arago State Park, rugged cliffs meet splashing waves. Shore pines and sandy beaches mark Bullards Beach State Park, as does the historic Coquille River Lighthouse. Humbug State Park is popular for camping, windsurfing and scuba diving. More than eight miles of trails cover Cape Blanco State Park, also home to the historic Cape Blanco Lighthouse.

Powder for Days With four lifts to choose from, the Mt. Ashland Ski Area in the beautiful Siskiyou Mountains is a powder paradise. Hardcore enthusiasts cat ski on over 6,000 acres on Mount Bailey. Go Nordic skiing at Diamond Lake, Lake of the Woods or Crater Lake. Warner Canyon Ski Area is a hidden gem tucked in the remote Warner Mountains.

Shaped by Volcanism Upper Klamath Lake is the largest body of water by surface area in Oregon. The Oregon Caves National Monument and Preserve was created by eons of acidic water seeping into marble rock, forming caves. Abert Rim rises 2,490 feet above the high desert, one of the highest fault scarps in the country. The Rogue River Gorge is a deep canyon cut through basalt.

Plenty of Parks to Explore Roseburg’s Riverfront Park stretches more than a mile along the Umpqua River. Klamath Falls waterfront parks follow the banks of Klamath Lake and the Klamath River. Lithia Park in Ashland is ninety-three acres of manicured grounds and forested canyon surrounding Lithia Creek.

Wildlife, Up Close and Personal See hundreds of migrating birds fly overhead in the Pacific Flyway at Summer Lake Wildlife Area and Klamath Marsh Wildlife Refuge. At Hart Mountain National Antelope Refuge, the American pronghorn is the star; a variety of fish and birds are here, too.

Leave the Roads Behind Get your ATV speed thrills in the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area. The Rogue River is famous for jet boating tour opportunities. Diamond Lake is your destination for winter snowmobiling.

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SARAH HUSE

ROSEBURG

Carnivore Supervisor, Wildlife Safari Sarah Huse was born and raised in Las Vegas and moved to Roseburg 17 years ago to work at Wildlife Safari. Huse has been running their carnivore department and international cheetah breeding program for over 15 years.

Don’t Miss My husband and I fish any chance we get, river or lakes. We just got married this year at Lemolo Lake, our favorite place to go fishing. We keep an eye out for negative tides on the coast which is less than 90 minutes away and go clamming any chance we get.

Favorite Day Trip Highway 138 has beautiful waterfalls but Grotto Falls up Little River is spectacular. Not only can you hike directly up to the falls but you can hike into the cave right behind the waterfall watching the wall of water falling right in front of you. It’s honestly like a scene out of a movie.

Hidden Gem My favorite hike here is Twin Lakes up Highway 138. It is never super busy but it is totally worth it. It’s about a mile hike into these two crystal clear side by side small lakes. You feel as though you are in the most pristine wilderness as you gaze into the clear bright blue lakes and can see logs laying on the bottom.

Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area

OU T D O O R

The 670-mile Oregon Timber Trail offers 69,000 feet of elevation gain and is split into four tiers and ten segments.

Oregon Timber Trail, Oakridge

BIKING

Scenic Bikeways

Some of the best road-cyclist-friendly routes are located in Southern Oregon; after all, Oregon pioneered the Scenic Bikeway program. Each showcases gorgeous scenery, history and community, made easy for cyclists to experience by way of printable maps and on-road signage.

OREGON OUTBACK SCENIC BIKEWAY The high desert basin and range meets the forest in deep south Central Oregon. This eighty-nine mile loop is a challenging one, rewarded with views of lakes, pronghorn, wetland birds, bighorn sheep and sage grouse.

WILD RIVERS COAST SCENIC BIKEWAY Port Orford, a small fishing town, is your starting point for this ride, which travels along the Pacific Ocean and the Wild and Scenic Elk River past cranberry bogs, basalt sea stacks and vast ocean views.

CASCADE SISKIYOU SCENIC BIKEWAY Set off from the thespian town of Ashland and climb 5,000 feet through oak savannah into fir forests in the Siskiyou Range on this fifty-five mile loop classified as “extreme.” It’s worth it when you reach spectacular views of the Bear Creek Valley and Pilot Rock, a 25-million-year-old volcanic plug.

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Cascade-Siskiyou Scenic Bikeway

More Roads to Conquer The Rim Drive of Crater Lake is an Oregon must-ride, boasting thirtythree miles of challenging alpine road cycling with a view of Oregon’s crown jewel. Keep your ears open for news of vehicle-free days, when the rim is closed to cars but open to bikes, usually in the spring and fall. Klamath County offers twenty-five mapped cycling routes from easy to extreme. Meander through mountains, farmlands and the high desert on two wheels.

The Mountains are Calling Conceived in 2015, the Oregon Timber Trail is a world-class bikepacking destination. The 670-mile backcountry mountain bike route begins south in Lakeview and runs north to the Columbia River Gorge. Make it a day trip or pack up those panniers for a rugged multiday backcountry trip. Check conditions in advance on the Oregon Timber Trail website. The North Umpqua Trail is famous for rugged singletrack opportunities. To the southeast in the desert, try Spence Mountain. Just fifteen miles from Klamath Falls, the trails offer varied terrain and views of Klamath Lake. Check out one of Oregon’s newest backcountry routes on Coos County’s Beaver Hill, Seven Devils Unit mountain biking trails.

PHOTO TOP TYLER ROEMER

SADDLE UP

OU T D O O R S HIKING

ONE FOOT AFTER THE OTHER With landscapes like these, how could anyone resist a hike? Journey across forest and desert, to the ocean and along rivers, taking in amazing scenery as you go. Historic Lithia Park in Ashland has miles of gravel and paved trails through both landscaped and wild grounds, perfect for anyone seeking a peaceful walk. Meander along Ashland Creek, enjoy the Japanese garden and don’t miss the sycamore grove. Lithia Park also connects to numerous trails and fire roads for those looking to hike further afield, surrounded by nature, beauty and peace. To get a look at Jacksonville’s 1,100-acre Forest Park, take a stroll on the Jacksonville Woodlands Trails. Twenty miles of trails offering grand vistas, small creeks, interpretive markers and signs of old mining activity lie one mile west of downtown in the hills overlooking the historic town. The JackAsh Trail is a community effort to connect the already existing trail systems in Jacksonville, Ashland and the Applegate Ridge. This non-motorized system includes Bald Mountain, Point Mountain and Anderson Butte.

Tate Creek, Rogue River Trail

Indian Sands Trail, an offshoot of the Oregon Coast Trail PHOTO TOP TO BOTTOM CANNON PHOTOGRAPHY LLC / ALAMY STOCK PHOTO, IMAGEBROKER / ALAMY STOCK PHOTO, SEAN BAGSHAW

The legendary North Umpqua River Trail is comprised of seventynine miles of forested, riverfront beauty begging for a long walk or an overnight backpack. Some sections are more difficult than others to traverse, but all are gorgeous and rarely crowded. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife, including elk and osprey. One of the most famous hikes in the state, the Rogue River Trail was built for gold miners and their pack mules. The forty-mile trail covers the rugged terrain of the Wild & Scenic Rogue, with historic sites and plenty of pine forests and cliffs along the way.

PHOTO TOP SEAN BAGSHAW

The Oregon Coast will make you want to slow down...way down. The incredible 382-mile Oregon Coast Trail journeys across sandy beaches, through forest corridors and over majestic headlands, every bit of it hikeable. Choose a section and soak up the coast.

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Lithia Park

Looking for a new perspective? Let us be your guide.

SOUTHERN OREGON CENTRAL OREGON PORTLAND METRO COLUMBIA RIVER GORGE SW WASHINGTON OREGON COAST WILLAMETTE VALLEY

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OU T D O O R S GOLF

A PERFECT DAY ON THE GREEN

For a world-class semi-private golf experience, check out the centerpiece and highlight of Eagle Point Golf Resort: a premier Robert Trent Jones Jr. designed golf course, with the option for an overnight stay in one of twelve recently constructed condominiums.

Award-winning course designs, breathtaking scenery, helpful pros and delicious choices for the 19th hole make Southern Oregon an outstanding golf trip destination.

The rolling hills, sky-scraping pines and scenic views of the Rogue Valley are on display in the Grants Pass Golf Club. The traditional layout was carved into a former horse ranch and is balanced by pristine fairways and smooth-running greens.

Find Oregon’s only award-winning Arnold Palmer-designed golf course at Running Y Ranch Resort in Klamath Falls. Winding through lush forests and scenic wetlands, this course has been ranked among America’s 100 Greatest Public Golf Courses by Golf Digest.

Two-time PGA winner John Fought designed Medford’s Centennial Golf Course, which opened in 2006 to instant rave reviews. An impressive 7,309-yard layout plays to a par of 72.

Arnold Palmer Signature Course, Running Y Ranch

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PHOTO AIDAN BRADLEY

The Running Y Ranch Resort boasts Oregon’s only awardwinning Arnold Palmer-designed golf course. It is ranked among America’s 100 Greatest Public Golf Courses by Golf Digest.

GOLF - DINE - STAY - EXPLORE

Welcome to our backyard. ~ PROUDLY GUIDING SOUTHERN OREGON’S RIVERS SINCE 2011 ~

Ti’lomikh Falls on the “Rogue Valley Rapid Run” by Ian Gannon • Offered twice per day, April - September Peruse our collection of Southern Oregon rafting adventures at www.IndigoCreekOutfitters.com

OU T D O O R S RAFTING AND FISHING

NOT-SO-LAZY RIVERS Crater Lake and the Pacific Ocean might come to mind when thinking about Southern Oregon waters, but the region is home to a massive network of waterways, ripe for fishing, rafting and more. Dozens of lakes and rivers have long inspired aficionados of the wild outdoors, and they might just inspire you, too. The tried and true Rogue River is where your exploration of Southern Oregon’s waters begins, springing from the flanks of Crater Lake’s caldera. From the early days of the gold rush through the modern era of the Wild West, this river has been renowned and adored as a wild and gorgeous frontier. Rugged and wild, the Upper Rogue inspires sightseeing as well as kayaking and steelhead fishing. The Lower Rogue is sought-after for whitewater rafting, with would-be permit holders lining up months in advance. Salmon and steelhead fishing are excellent here. The North Umpqua makes its way from the Cascade Range to the sea, inspiring legions of adoring fans. The Umpqua is legendary for steelhead, and great for boating, from kayak to raft to drift boat. Flyfishing rules on the Illinois River where steelhead, chinook salmon and coho salmon swim wild. While remote, this tributary to the Rogue offers fishing in serene solitude. The Williamson River offers amazing trout fishing on its 100-mile journey into Upper Klamath Lake. Klamath River begins in the desert and flows toward the mountains before reaching the sea. Known for large trout and whitewater, the Klamath is a gem.

ASHLAND

Owner and Guide at Momentum River Expeditions Originally from Vermont but having lived across the Pacific Northwest, Pete arrived in Ashland after attempting to quit river guiding. He was driving from California to accept a job at an architecture firm when he received a call from a river company offering him the Upper Klamath portion to run, and he just couldn’t pass up the opportunity.

Don’t Miss The Ashland Halloween parade for sure. There are not that many places where the adults like to dress up as much as the kids do, and it is awesome!

Favorite Day Trip A rafting trip down the Upper Klamath River. There is not another summer whitewater trip like it; I highly recommend.

Hidden Gem The trail running and hiking here is incredible, and still feels mostly undiscovered. Miles and miles of trails are accessible right from downtown, and not many cities in the country can say that.

PHOTO BOTTOM JAK WONDERLY

For anglers of all skill levels, there exists the perfect lake in Southern Oregon, like Lake of the Woods, Upper Klamath Lake, Diamond Lake, Odell Lake and Crescent Lake. Cast a line from the shore or a boat and kick back until the fish bite.

PETE WALSTROM

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OU T D O O R S Sasquatch Hollow, at Crater Lake Zipline, is Oregon’s only kids-specific zipline adventure.

Crater Lake Zipline

ScienceWorks Hands-On Museum

Mt. Ashland

Oregon’s first drive-thru zoo, featuring wild animals galore. At Wildlife Images in Grants Pass, visitors can see animals native to the Pacific Northwest that have been rescued and rehabilitated. Kids’ natural curiosity will have room to expand here. For a wowfactor with supernatural thrill, visit The Oregon Vortex and House of Mystery in Gold Hill. This glimpse into a strange world where physical facts reverse and perceptual phenomena prevail will blow your mind. The ScienceWorks Hands on Museum in Ashland lets kids tinker, experiment and play. Interactive science and nature activities are at The Children’s Museum of Klamath Falls.

SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE From kids to grandparents and anyone in between, Southern Oregon is full of possibilities for family exploration and fun. Cultural immersion, outdoor adventure and an up-close meeting with a cheetah can all be found here. For a beautiful sight that’ll scratch the itch of any nature loving family, visit the Butterfly Pavilion at the Elkton Community Education Center, where monarch butterflies flutter on the wing. Nearby is the historic Fort Umpqua, a trading fort circa the 1880s. Visit the Siskiyou Field Institute on the Illinois River to learn about the Klamath-Siskiyou region. Wildlife Safari in Winston is

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Anyone with tastebuds will enjoy a tour of Southern Oregonborn Harry & David, where fruit-based treats are created from scratch. Tour one of the Rogue Valley’s many farms, where apples, pears and berries grow alongside wine grapes and flowers. The daredevils and speedsters of the family will feel at home here. Catch some air via trampoline at Rogue Air Park in Medford. Raft the Rogue River in the summer, or enjoy water slides at Emigrant Lake near Klamath Falls. In the winter, zoom down a ski hill at Mt. Ashland, Warner Canyon Ski Area or Willamette Ski Resort. Stop by Spinreel Dune Buggy and ATV in North Bend for information and rentals for the Oregon Dunes. In Klamath Falls, zip down the flanks of a former ski area with a view of Klamath Lake at Crater Lake Zipline for adults and Sasquatch Hollow, Oregon’s only kid’s zipline adventure. Rogue Valley Zipline delivers its own gravity-led fun in Central Point.

PHOTO RIGHT SEAN BAGSHAW

FAMILY FRIENDLY

The Ideal Four Season Vacation Location

Just 30 Miles From Crater Lake National Park Lonesome Duck Ranch is the ideal four season vacation location. The perfect getaway for the fly fisherman, naturalist, birding enthusiast, and photographer. Enjoy hiking, biking and canoeing then relax and unwind in luxury. Beautiful log homes on 2.5 miles of private riverfront on southern Oregon’s Williamson River.

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Celebrate the power of storytelling

Indecent (2019): Anthony Heald, Kimberly Fitch, William DeMeritt, Christina Crowder, Benjamin Pelteson. Photo by Jenny Graham.

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ARTS & C U LTU

Britt Festival

LTURE U C & ARTS

PHOTO AL CASE

CREATION, COLLABORATION AND COMMUNITY When it comes to creating something beautiful and pushing the boundaries of style, the people of Southern Oregon are forerunners. The first Chautauqua lectures began in the 1890s, and things only grew from there. Today, Southern Oregon is home to the longest-running outdoor music festival in the Northwest, two major film festivals, an internationally famous theater troupe, innovative visual artists, Indigenous makers of traditional and modern crafts, and so much more. Come and celebrate the joy and inspiration of creativity with us.

DO SOMETHING GREAT  41

ARTS & C U LTU

BIT BY THE THEATER BUG From the early days of Indigenous society, arts and culture have been at the heart of human experience in Southern Oregon. Native Americans have been weaving baskets, sewing beadwork and creating feather adornments using materials from the landscape for thousands of years, and these practices continue to this day. Later, people like Peter Britt, a non-native settler who arrived in Jacksonville in 1852 with $5 in his pocket and a wagonful of photography equipment, made their mark. Britt chronicled fifty years of life in the fledgling pioneer community and is the namesake of Southern Oregon’s premier outdoor concert series, the Britt Festival, which sits on the grounds of his former home. Angus Bowmer arrived in 1931 with the intention of teaching English at Southern Oregon Normal School in Ashland. A few years later, he persuaded the city to support an outdoor production of the works of Shakespeare. His legacy is the world-famous Oregon Shakespeare Festival, with three theaters, a company of hundreds and thousands of plays presented since 1935. Around here, people defend and value the arts in an effort to preserve them for future generations. Communities step up and rally around theaters to save them from neglect and destruction. Volunteers staff regional history museums and community art galleries when funds are tight. Look around, and you’ll be inspired.

KURT LIEDTKE

KLAMATH FALLS

Klamath Film, Executive Director Born and raised in Eugene, Kurt Liedtke relocated to Southern Oregon in 2014, joined Klamath Film in 2016, and in 2020, became the executive director. Klamath Film is the area’s official film liaison, providing equipment and services to independent filmmakers.

Don’t Miss The Klamath Basin offers a wide variety of fantastic community events including Winter Wings Festival, Third Thursdays, Klamath Comic Con, Snowflake Festival and Klamath Independent Film Festival, the only all-Oregon film fest in the country exclusively showcasing made-in-Oregon films.

Favorite Day Trip Oregon’s only national park, Crater Lake offers extraordinary views along the rim and seasonal activities like guided snowshoe tours. There are also boat tours on the lake, and nearby is a biplane and ropes course for kids. Easily accessible from Klamath Falls or Chiloquin, Crater Lake is an ideal day-trip.

Hidden Gem The Klamath County Library creates engaging and fun activities for all-ages, like monthly retro video game nights, adult board game events, Dungeons & Dragons groups, after-hours teen Nerf gun wars, the annual Klamath Comic Con, Harry Potter Month, Star Wars Month and so much more. Oregon Shakespeare Festival

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Oregon Cabaret Theatre

Originally built as Ashland’s first Baptist church in 1911, the Oregon Cabaret Theatre is now a popular attraction for visitors and locals alike. The theatre presents over 270 shows each annual season.

THEATER

TAKE TO THE STAGE

PHOTO BRYON DEVORE

Southern Oregon is home to a variety of theaters, all boasting unique venues and on-stage productions. With so many to pick from, you might think everyone here is a thespian. Ashland’s Oregon Shakespeare Festival is the granddaddy, but the greater region abounds with theater productions and the performing arts. It takes a passionate, talented and truly dedicated community to keep every independent theater running, and talent you will find, from local to national, musical to dramatic, to entertain, educate and inspire. The Oregon Shakespeare Festival in Ashland runs March through October on three stages. This rotating repertory company showcases plays written by William Shakespeare, as well as other playwrights who’ve penned plays from classics to contemporaries. The festival’s reach is international and brings the town of Ashland to vibrant life each season with thousands of visitors. In addition to the Shakespearian Festival, Ashland is home to the Oregon Cabaret Theatre, where dinner comes with the show. Musicals and music acts are served along with delicious meals at

this entertainment hub in the heart of town just steps from the Shakespeare festival campus. Medford rallied around a historic community theater, not wanting to let go of a unique part of the town’s legacy. Today, the Craterian Theater presents dozens of plays, musicals and performances each year. Also in Medford is the Holly Theatre, a historic Spanish Colonial Revival theater built in 1930. Currently undergoing a renovation, the Holly will host national music acts, classic films and more for years to come. You might not think of an old feed store as a potential theater location, but the Camelot Theater proves otherwise. They took up residence in an old feed store in Talent in 1990, and the rest is history. This 104-seat theater hosts musicals and plays year-round, now in the new state-of-the-art, Art Deco-style James Morrison Collier Theatre building. Rogue Theatre in downtown Grants Pass is another historic art deco gem, built in 1938. Today, the venue is host to local and national music, dance, film and plays. Downtown Klamath Falls has the Art Deco beauty and community hub the Ross Ragland Theater. In Gold Beach, it’s the Ellensburg Theatre in the historic Rogue Playhouse that entertains guests.

DO SOMETHING GREAT  43

ARTS & C U LTU

HERITAGE

THE LEGACY OF A SHARED LAND Humans have been living in Southern Oregon since before recorded history, with some evidence pointing to human activity over 15,000 years ago. It wasn’t until the 1840s that Anglo-settlers arrived en masse with dreams of independent lives, living off this bountiful land. Today, the history of both Indigenous peoples and settlers are told across the region, through cultural institutions, museums and spoken word, ready for visitors to listen and learn. The Applegate Trail arose in the 1880s, becoming an important alternative to the main Oregon Trail route to the Willamette Valley. Many settlers chose sunny Southern Oregon as their new home. The Applegate Trail Interpretive Center in Sunny Valley depicts the stories of the covered wagons, gold, and rail and stage lines that defined the settlers’ experiences. Just up the road in Wolf Creek is the Wolf Creek Inn, built in the 1880s as an oasis for weary travelers. Today, the inn still serves meals and provides beds to sojourners.

The Southern Oregon Historical Society in Medford celebrated 75 years in 2021, and showcases antique fire engines, women’s fashion, renowned photos by famed photographer Peter Britt and a historic farm that guests can even rent for special events. On the coast, Coos History Museum brings to life maritime history, the history of fire on the Oregon Coast and more than 250,000 images of the widely captured Southern Oregon coastline. North of Paisley in the Outback, stop at the Fort Rock Homestead Museum, with a collection of homestead-era buildings including a church, school and cabins filled with historic items. The Favell Museum in Klamath Falls features Native American artifacts and contemporary Western art, including arrowheads, cradleboards, miniature guns and more. Collier Memorial Logging Museum is home to the largest collection of logging equipment in Oregon. Klamath County Museum is the region’s main history hub. The Fort Klamath Museum, north of Klamath Falls, is a small gem with interesting artifacts from the era when hundreds of soldiers were stationed there. The Fort Klamath Museum

PHOTO BOTTOM PRISMA BY DUKAS PRESSEAGENTUR GMBH / ALAMY STOCK PHOTO, INSET JAK WONDERLY

Find artifacts showcasing the history of mining, fishing, farming and timber at Roseburg’s historic time capsule, the Douglas County Museum. The museum also has one of the largest plant collections on display in the Northwest, providing a glimpse of the diversity of the forests that surround this special region.

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Fort Rock Homestead Museum

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ARTS & C U LTU

Britt Festival

MUSIC & ARTS

ARTS ABOUND Every type of art you can imagine is on display here. On the campus of Southern Oregon University in Ashland is the Schneider Museum of Art, showcasing fine visual arts in a changing exhibit format. Past exhibits have included fine and contemporary art and serve as a vital force in the intellectual life of the college and the city.

The Arts Center in Roseburg is presented by the Umpqua Valley Arts Association. By working with student, regional and resident artists, along with six galleries, the Arts Center supports the local community. North of Cave Junction is The Guild Gallery & Art Center in Kerby. The gallery displays art in many mediums from regional artists, including glass, ceramics, jewelry and more.

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Schneider Museum of Art

John Trudeau and his friend Sam McKinney had a dream of starting a music festival. Several decades ago, they found the hillside estate of Jacksonville photographer Peter Britt, and a match was made. The slope of the Britt hill not only creates perfect acoustics, it also offers stunning views of the Rogue Valley in the distance. With performances from orchestra to mainstream headlining acts, the Britt Festival is the heart of Jacksonville and an aesthetic treasure in the state.

PHOTO BOTTOM BRIAN PRECHTEL

In fall, look out for the Klamath Independent Film Festival which features only made-in-Oregon films. On the other side of the Siskiyou range in spring, the Ashland Independent Film Festival brings independent film to Ashland. Immerse yourself in this five-day event that brings artistic films and their makers to this small town for a community-driven, cultural experience.

BROADWAY MEETS TALENT WITH JUST A SHORT DRIVE FROM ASHLAND Camelot Theatre is celebrating its 40th season with year-round live stage entertainment.

Feb. 16 – March 13

June 1 - July 10

Sept. 21 - Oct. 30

Nov. 23 - Dec. 31

Plus, exclusive SPOTLIGHTS ON the music of Bobby Darin, Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, Roy Orbison and Joni Mitchell.

CamelotTheatre.org 541.535.5250

Where Broadway Meets Talent 101 Talent Ave. & Main St. in Talent

Leadership Begins

HERE

Confidence is rooted in the challenges you meet. At Southern Oregon University, we know the strength of spirit it takes to aspire to a college career is no small thing. We’ll help you channel that strength and amplify it while you go the distance on your academic journey. With 103 degrees, minors, and certificates to choose from, SOU is poised to support every Raider as they rise to their challenge. Schedule a campus tour or counselor visit today.

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90 + Point Wines plus vineyard & mountain views

92 Points

EDITORS ’ CHOICE

Wine Enthusiast

2Hawk Vineyard & Winery Indoor & Outdoor Seating Food Menu • Bocce Ball

OPEN DAILY 1– 7 PM • SOUTHEAST MEDFORD

Rogue Valley

INE W & Y R A CULIN

LARRY GEDDIS / ALAMY STOCK PHOTO

A CORNUCOPIA OF TASTE Southern Oregon is a bountiful land, full of farms, rivers and forests overflowing with fresh flavor. It naturally follows that this region would produce innovative foods and wines from its fruitful soils. A passionate group of vintners, chefs and restaurateurs have turned Southern Oregon into a culinary paradise, dotted with excellent restaurants and scenic wineries delivering flavorful local dishes and award-winning wines to sip with a view.

DO SOMETHING GREAT  49

CUL I NA R Y A BOUNTIFUL LANDSCAPE PRODUCES UNIQUE FLAVORS The farm-to-table movement might sound like trend in some places, but it’s just part of daily life in Southern Oregon. Established farms and creative chefs have long been making magic with what the land produced in this rich ecosystem. Now, it is almost impossible to find a restaurant that isn’t using local meats, cheeses, produce and more for their one-of-a-kind dishes. Creameries, orchards and farms deliver delicious local flavors to a community hungry for delectable meals. Fish from the rivers, crab from the sea, vegetables from the earth, wild game from the forests and organic meats from local ranches are all transformed into dishes prepared with creativity and love.

AMBER FRY MEDFORD

General Manager, Fry Family Farm Amber Fry moved to Southern Oregon in 1990 and spent her childhood working on the Fry Family Farm with her parents and siblings. Now, she is the general manager of the farm, where her kids sometimes work with her. Amber loves yoga, all kinds of plants, and especially loves cooking meals from scratch for her family.

Favorite Day Trip Union Creek is a beautiful quick getaway spot. There are a ton of great hikes and quiet spots to enjoy on the Rogue River. It just has so much to offer in a close range. There are a ton of waterfalls and scenic places, like Takelma Gorge and the Avenue of Boulders.

Hidden Gem Just up from Lithia Park is a wonderful collection of boulders known to locals as the Acid Castles. It’s about two miles from downtown Ashland and has some of the best views of the city and surrounding areas. It’s a steep hike but short enough that our four-year-old has no problem with it.

We love to head up the backside of Mount Ashland in the summer and hike. There are so many great trails and we really enjoy being able to experience bits of the Pacific Crest Trail. There are amazing views and the trails are kid friendly. Fry Family Farm Store

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PHOTO LEFT JAK WONDERLY

Don’t Miss

Alchemy

A Bite for Everyone The culinary scene here is sure to please everyone, offering everything from fine dining to locally sourced BBQ. Choose from casual burgers to perfectly crafted plates served on white table cloths. Eat sushi made from fish fresh from the boat at Tokyo Bistro in North Bend, nosh on innovative dishes in a historic house at the Parrott House in Roseburg, enjoy coffee and brunch treats at Morning Glory in Ashland, or dine on barbecued ribs and chicken at an old homestead known as the Hellgate Riverside Lodge along the Rogue River during a jetboat trip with Hellgate Jet Boat Excursions.

Parrott House

Registered on the National Historic Registry, the Parrott House offers upscale dining and a bourbon bar.

Top Quality, Superlative Flavor For a gourmet meal and a chic dining experience, make a reservation at Peerless in Ashland. Alchemy serves dishes like Oregon filet mignon inside the plush Winchester Inn in Ashland, near the Oregon Shakespeare Festival theaters. In Medford, Elements Tapas is a wine bar with delicious small plates. Grab a hearty cowboy ribeye steak at Nibbley’s in Klamath Falls. Jacksonville boasts the lively Italian tavern Bella Union, serving up old-world cuisine and craft cocktails, as well as the Jacksonville Inn Restaurant, which offers over 2,000 wines and dishes such as prime rib of beef au jus.

DO SOMETHING GREAT  51

CUL I NA R Y Local Libations Walkabout Brewing, Opposition Brewing and Common Block Brewing are all in Medford, as is BricktownE Brewing Company, with beers from IPA to stout. In Gold Beach, don’t miss a stop at Arch Rock Brewing Company. In Roseburg, visit Backside Brewing Co. Winston’s modest tasting room is Lookingglass Brewery, and Wild River Brewing has three locations in the Rogue Valley. Ashland

Backside Brewing Co.

has Caldera Brewing Company and Standing Stone Brewery, and Klamath Basin Brewing Co resides in Klamath Falls. The craft cider craze brought Eden Valley Orchards and Gold Rush Cider to Medford and Bandon Rain to the beach. Immortal Spirit, also in Medford, was the region’s first single malt whiskey distillery, with Pioneer Whisky Distillery following suit in Talent.

Standing Stone Brewery

TOP RIGHT JONI KABANA, LEFT GEORGE RUBALOFF, BOTTOM JACK WONDERLY

Common Block Brewing

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ONE STOP SHOP Community Owned Grocery Store, Kitchen and Bakery

Southern Oregon's Certified Organic Retailer Open everyday 7am - 9pm 237 N. First St. Ashland, Oregon • (541) 482-2237 • ashlandfood.coop

RoxyAnn Winery

W in e

IN WINE WE TRUST

Five Southern Oregon regions make up Southern Oregon’s beautiful wine country: Rogue Valley, Applegate Valley, Umpqua Valley, Illinois River and Elkton. The climate and the terrain make Southern Oregon ideal for growing wine grapes. The latitude and prevailing oceanic winds create a seven-month growing season. Wide diurnal temperature swings and mountainous topography produce dozens of microclimates. The result is vineyards that produce some of the most diverse wine varietals of anywhere else in the Pacific Northwest and award-winning wines that delight.

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DANCIN Vineyards

BOUNDLESS OPTIONS There are an amazing seventy different grape varieties cultivated here. This makes this region more like Europe than other locations on the West Coast. Wine Enthusiast named Southern Oregon one of the Top 10 Global Destinations in 2016. At the same time, this region is still relatively undiscovered when it comes to viticulture. You can make a leisurely wine tasting trip, complete with gourmet meals and tempranillo and cabernet, without worrying about fighting the crowds.

THE PERFECT PAIRING

PHOTO FACING PAGE CANNON PHOTOGRAPHY LLC / ALAMY STOCK PHOTO, THIS PAGE TOP DANNY HALL, BOTTOM COURTESY WINE HOPPER TOURS

Wine is perfect for pairing, and what better to pair with than fresh bites, made from pulled from the same earth as the grapes in your glass. Some of the region’s wineries don’t stop their quest for excellency with the grape. Delicious bites are to be found at many wineries, too. Try the woodfired pizza at DANCIN Vineyards near Jacksonville, an indulgent burger at Schmidt Family Vineyards, or the ever-delicious seasonal sample menu at Belle Fiore in Ashland.

LEARN FROM THE BEST Wine Hopper Tours and Main Street Tours are great options for a wine tour in the Rogue and Applegate Valleys. Hop aboard a comfortable vehicle, complete with loads of wine education and local history. Hire a personal concierge, driver and tour guide with Bravo Outings. The tour company leads a multitude of getaways, with private tastings, wine and food pairings, cellar tours, and more in the Rogue and Umpqua Valleys. Fully customize your Umpqua Valley tour with Swing From The Vines, a premiere tour bus service.

Wine Hopper Tours

Bike-touring has become another popular option, with destinations supporting cyclists with paved roads flanked by rolling vineyards, bike racks and overnight accommodations for you and your bike. Via Bike Tours offers a Southern Oregon Wine Country Bicycle Tour that handles all of the details and navigation for you.

UNFORGETTABLE EVENTS With sweeping views of vines, forests, mountains and rivers, wineries here are perfect for events. Book a wedding or reunion on one of these private grounds for an unforgettable experience. Many wineries offer regular music and entertainment. Catch live music at Rellik Winery in Central Point, Grizzly Peak Winery in Medford, the Applegate River at Red Lily Winery and the Summerfest concert series at Delfino Vineyards in Roseburg.

DO SOMETHING GREAT  55

The rich valleys of the Umpqua, with their diverse landscapes, complexity of soils, and ideal growing conditions produce more than 40 varietals of grapes and are home to over 20 unique wineries. Come visit, taste, and fall in love with the quality and character of our award winning wines as you journey through the Umpqua Valley in Southern Oregon. Plan your trip today: umpquavalleywineries.org 541-673-5323 Roseburg, OR

BELL SISTER FLATS LUXURIOUS LODGING HISTORIC DOWNTOWN ROSEBURG

BOOK YOUR STAY TODAY

138

ELKTON

UMPQUA RIVER

River's Edge Winery Lexème Wines

u MpQua Vall ey & elKton

Brandborg Winery Bradley Vineyards

138

Meadows Estate Winery & Vineyards

Triple Oak Vineyard Spire Mountain Cellars

SUTHERLIN

Henry Estate Winery Reustle-Prayer Rock Vineyards NORTH UMPQUA RIVER

JosephJane Winery Becker Vineyard Knostman Family Winery

Southern Oregon Wine Institute Cooper Ridge Vineyard

HillCrest Vineyard Melrose Vineyards Season Cellars

ROSEBURG

Delfino Vineyards & Winery SOUTH UMPQUA RIVER

Paul O'Brien Winery Trella Vineyards Tasting Room

Spangler Vineyards Abacela 99

Freed Estate Winery

Girardet Vineyards & Winery

Falk Estate Vineyards

W IN E UMPQUA VALLEY Bordered by the Oregon Coast Range to the west, the Cascades to the east, the Willamette Valley’s wine-growing region to the north and the Rogue Valley to the south, the Umpqua Valley AVA is in the middle of it all. Two sub-appellations, Red Hill Douglas County and Elkton Oregon, are within the Umpqua Valley AVA. Scenic and rural, friendly and welcoming, most Umpqua Valley wineries are family owned and operated, offering visitors a personal experience at their tasting rooms and vineyards.

LANDSCAPE

HillCrest Vineyards

At the heart of Umpqua land lies Roseburg, the biggest town in the valley. The Umpqua River flows from mountains and waterfalls to covered bridges through town towards the Pacific Ocean. Umpqua territory is drier and warmer than the Oregon wine regions to the north, and cooler than the Rogue and Applegate wine regions to the south. With temperatures varying as much as 60 degrees in the summer, the Umpqua Valley wine region is comprised of three distinct climatic sub-zones. The northern area around the town of Elkton enjoys a cool, marine-influenced climate. The central area to the northwest of the city of Roseburg has a transitional, or intermediate, climate where both cool and warm varieties do quite well. The area south of Roseburg is warmer and more arid, similar to the Rogue and Applegate valleys to the south. A series of valleys and hills on the same latitude as those running directly through some of Europe’s greatest grape-growing districts define this AVA.

German immigrants planted the first grapevines in the region in the 1880s. In 1961, Richard Sommer established Oregon’s oldest estate winery still in operation today, HillCrest Vineyards, located in the hills west of Roseburg. The Umpqua Valley AVA is Oregon’s oldest viticulture region, established in 1984.

VARIETALS The Umpqua Valley AVA boasts more than forty different varieties of wine. The cooler valleys allow grapes such as Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris and Riesling to flourish while the warmer valleys produce outstanding Syrah, Tempranillo and Cabernet Sauvignon. This climate lends itself well to the Rhone varietals such as Viognier and Grenache and the Spanish Albariño and Graciano. Other popular varietals include Merlot, Zinfandel, Baco Noir, Cabernet Franc and Gewurztraminer.

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Melrose Vineyards

Delfino Vineyards

PHOTO TOP JONI KABANA, MIDDLE AARON MARINEAU

HISTORY

R O G U E VA L L EY WI N E CO U N T RY

BUCKET LIST

O Upper Rogue Wine Trail O Southern Rogue Wineries O Bear Creek Wine Trail O Applegate Valley Wine Trail O Jacksonville Wineries O The Rogue Grape Wine Bar O Britt Festival O Vineyard Picnics O Lavender Fields O Flower U-Picks O Harvest Festivals O Oregon Wine Experience O Live Music at Wineries O Cellar Tours O Winemaker Dinners

“Wine Country the way it should be” - Sunset Magazine

TRAVELMEDFORD.ORG

ROGUEVALLEYWINECOUNTRY.COM

W IN E HISTORY

One of the newest wine regions in Oregon, the Elkton AVA subappellation of the Umpqua AVA has misty hills and cool valleys from the coastal mountain range, perfect for cool weather grapes. Under the boughs of the Douglas fir, the Elkton area produces great wines only forty miles from the ocean.

Winegrowing began in Elkton with planting cool climate whites and Pinot Noir in the early 1970s. Thirty years later in 2002, Brandborg Vineyard and Winery opened as the area’s first winery. In 2013, the Elkton Oregon AVA was established to recognize the area’s distinct climate and geography within the larger Umpqua Valley AVA.

LANDSCAPE

VARIETALS

Ocean breezes frequently blanket the coastline west of Elkton in the thickest marine layer in Southern Oregon, keeping Elkton’s vineyards cooler, moister and foggier than those in Oregon’s other southern appellations. With an average rainfall of 50 inches a year, it’s also the coolest and wettest region within the Umpqua Valley.

The conditions are ideal for the planting of cool weather grapes, including Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, Gewürztraminer, Baco Noir, and Riesling.

Brandborg Vineyard and Winery

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PHOTO SUE BRANDBORG

ELKTON

Come see us for a tasting of our hand-crafted wines and artisan cheeses. Linger awhile, take a walk in the estate vineyard, and experience all that is Wooldridge Creek. Open daily 11-5pm

Come visit the Rogue Valley and wine'd your way through the Upper Rogue Wine Trail!

WWW.UPPERROGUEWINETRAIL.COM

ey l l a V e u R og

LOST CREEK LAKE

SHADY COVE 62

234

Cliff Creek Cellars

Kriselle Cellars 234

EAGLE POINT

ROGUE RIVER

Del Rio Winery 140

Rellik Winery Ledger David Winery

CENTRAL POINT

Hummingbird Estate Daisy Creek Vineyard Anchor Valley Wine Cellar South Stage Cellars Quady North

238

APPLEGATE RIVER

238

JACKSONVILLE 238

Rocky Knoll RoxyAnn Winery

DANCIN Vineyards

EdenVale Winery StoneRiver Vineyard Aurora Vines Pebblestone Cellars Simple Machine Trium Wines Upper Five Vineyard and Winery Cricket Hill Winery

Pallet Wine Company 2Hawk Vineyard & Winery Jaxon Vineyards

Naumes Suncrest Winery Long Walk Vineyard 99

Dana Campbell Grizzly Peak

ASHLAND Weisinger Family Winery

Cowhorn Vineyard & Garden

12 Ranch Wines

Belle Fiore Winery Irvine & Roberts Family Vineyards

WINE ROGUE VALLEY

LANDSCAPE

The cultural and economic heart of Southern Oregon beats in the Rogue Valley, which includes the communities of Medford, Ashland and Grants Pass. The Rogue Valley is the location of the greatest concentration of wineries in Southern Oregon, at around twenty. The Rogue Valley AVA offers a diverse climate and a wide variety of grapes, making it an incredible destination for a fullspectrum wine-touring experience.

Three mountain ranges come together to create a landscape that is as steep and dramatic as it is beautiful. The Klamath Mountains, the Coastal Range and the Cascades surround the valley, creating different elevation levels for planting different wine grapes. Vineyards have been planted at elevations of 1,200 to 2,000 feet, usually on the region’s rugged hillsides rather than on the valley floor. Green valleys and rolling hills dotted with merlot to malbec are here for the sampling. Kriselle Cellars

PHOTO JAK WONDERLY

The Rogue Valley is warm and dry in climate, similar to France’s Bordeaux region.

DO SOMETHING GREAT  63

W IN E

EdenVale Winery

The story of wine in the Rogue Valley begins back in the 1840s when European immigrants began planting grapes and eventually bottling wines. In 1852, an early settler named Peter Britt joined in on the grape growing adventure. He later opened Oregon’s first official winery, Valley View, but that venture closed in 1907. It wasn’t until an Oregon State University professor planted an experimental vineyard here in 1968 that winemakers rediscovered Rogue Valley as a superb winegrowing region. Rogue Valley AVA became an official appellation in 1991.

VARIETALS The Rogue Valley is warm and dry in climate, similar to France’s Bordeaux region, which supports Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Tempranillo, Syrah and Sauvignon Blanc. To the west end of the Rogue Valley, you’ll find cool-weather varietals such as Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Riesling, Muscat and Gewürztraminer. Dolcetto, Grenache and Zinfandel are among other varietals found here.

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Del Rio Vineyards

PHOTO TOP FINE WINE STOCK / ALAMY STOCK PHOTO, INSET GREG VAUGHN / ALAMY STOCK PHOTO

HISTORY

In the Heart of Southern Oregon Wine Country THE

WINERIES

JACKSONVILLE jacksonvillewineries.org

Quady ✯ North FROM GRAPE TO BOTTLE, PROUDLY HAND CRAFTED IN SOUTHERN OREGON

WINERIES,

world-class wine,

entertainment, Dining, SHOPPING,Historic Lodging

Believed to have originated six centuries ago in Sardinia, Grenache moved to Spain, then to the Rhone region of France where it is commonly used in blends, often with Syrah. However, when grown properly in the vineyard, Grenache makes an outstanding wine on its own. In our Quail Run Vineyards, we grow several Grenache clones, including Noir, Rioja, Alba and 362. Blending these clones together results in a complex and fruity wine with distinctive ﬂoral overtones of roses and violets, and hints of raspberries and strawberries on the palate.

and Recreation

Please come visit our tasting room and wine garden in beautiful, historic Jacksonville. For a taste of well-travelled wines.

UTH

ERN

O REG

Grenache Pure Native Wine

2011

Winemaker: Linda Donovan

VINTED AND BOTTLED BY SOUTH STAGE CELLARS, MEDFORD, OREGON 541-899-9120 www.southstagecellars.com

GOVERNMENT WARNING: (1) ACCORDING TO THE SURGEON GENERAL, WOMEN SHOULD NOT DRINK ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES DURING PREGNANCY BECAUSE OF THE RISK OF BIRTH DEFECTS. (2) CONSUMPTION OF ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES IMPAIRS YOUR ABILITY TO DRIVE A CAR OR OPERATE MACHINERY, AND MAY CAUSE HEALTH PROBLEMS. 13.5% alc. by vol.

CONTAINS SULFITES 750ML

WINE SPECTATOR MAGAZINE’S

“Best of Award of Excellence”

Located in the heart of the National Historic Landmark town of Jacksonville, Oregon,

GQ MAGAZINE’S

the Jacksonville Inn upholds its 19th-Century charm with its quaint 8-room boutique hotel and 4-independent, full-suite cottages with an exceptional restaurant & lounge and award-winning wine shop.

“One of the best retail wine shops in America”

Once named the “most romantic” hotel in Oregon and regarded as a must-visit getaway, the Jacksonville Inn creates a space of timeless grace where relaxation goes beyond linens, happiness beyond bubbly, and satisfaction beyond cuisine — turning moments into delicious and delightful traditions.

SOUTHERN OREGON’S BEST OF THE BEST 1ST PLACE IN FINE DINING

EST.

175 E. CALIFORNIA ST. JACKSONVILLE, OR 97530

1967

1-800-321-9344 JACKSONVILLEINN.COM

I NE W & C ULINAR Y

A PP L E G AT E

I L LI N O

LE L A V

Y 234

GRANTS PASS Hellgate Cellars

Two Rivers Vineyard

238

199

Dwell Wines Guzzo Family Vineyard

Deer Creek Vineyards Plaisance Ranch

238

MEDFORD Schmidt Family Vineyards Rosella's Vineyard JACKSONVILLE Walport Family Cellars Troon Vineyard Wooldridge Creek John Michael Champagne Cellars Augustino Estate & Vineyard APPLEGATE

DeVitt Winery & Vineyard 238

Red Lily Vineyards LongSword Vineyard

199

Valley View Winery

CAVE JUNCTION Bridgeview Vineyard & Winery Foris Vineyards Winery Augustino Treehouse Estate

Cricket Hill Winery Cowhorn Vineyard & Garden

Wild Wines

Woolridge Creek Winery

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W IN E APPLEGATE VALLEY The Applegate Valley stretches from the south, near the California border, along the Applegate River to where it meets the Rogue River, just west of Grants Pass. The bubbling Applegate River is paralleled by secluded state Highway 238 and its tiny side roads, through a steep and scenic valley, dotted with lovely vineyards delivering delicious wines.

LANDSCAPE The Applegate Valley has a moderate climate that generally enjoys a warm, dry growing season with hot days and cool nights perfect for warm-climate varieties. The steep terrain of the valley protects the terroir from coastal breezes, resulting in the pleasant temperatures and moderate climate that drew early pioneers. This rugged, beautiful valley is full of rural scenery, friendly people and winemaking talent.

Schmidt Family Vineyards

PHOTO FACING PAGE JAK WONDERLY, THIS PAGE TOP JESSE BRONS, MIDDLE JAK WONDERLY, BOTTOM FINE WINE STOCK / ALAMY STOCK PHOTO

HISTORY The namesake of the famous Britt Festival and an early settler to the region, Peter Britt was the first to plant wine grapes in the Applegate Valley, in 1852 on his property in Jacksonville. A few years later, the celebrated photographer and horticulturalist opened Valley View Winery, Oregon’s first official winery. While the original winery closed in 1907, the Wisnovsky family took on the Valley View Winery name in 1978, opening as the first winery of the new era in the Applegate Valley AVA. The appellation, also part of the Rogue Valley AVA, became official in 2001.

VARIETALS The Applegate Valley produces a rich variety of wines, from Chardonnay, Tempranillo, Syrah, Sangiovese, Viognier, Petite Sirah, Primitivo, Reisling, Roussanne and Zinfandel.

Plaisance Ranch

Troon Vineyard

DO SOMETHING GREAT  67

W IN E ILLINOIS VALLEY The Illinois Valley AVA, a sub region of the Rogue Valley AVA, takes its name from the river that carves a path through the forested mountains of the Siskiyou Mountains to the south and the Oregon Coast Range to the west, via Highway 199 from I-5 to Highway 101 on the Pacific Ocean. This tranquil, rural setting is a great place to enjoy the outdoors and simply relax.

LANDSCAPE The valley is bordered by the Siskiyou Mountains to the south and the Oregon Coast Range to the west. The town of Cave Junction, at the heart of the valley, is the gateway to one of our state’s greatest treasures, the Oregon Caves National Monument, one of the world’s few marble cave formations.

With a high elevation and ocean breezes that spill over the coastal mountains to the west, the valley is perfect for coolweather varietals.

HISTORY The Illinois Valley is home to one of the oldest existing vineyards in Oregon, Foris Vineyards, planted in 1972. Winemaking took off in the 1980s with the arrival of more growers including Bridgeview Vineyards and Winery owners Lelo and Bob Kerivan, with their wellresearched European grape-growing practices.

VARIETALS Burgundian varietals such as pinot noir, chardonnay and pinot blanc thrive in the Illinois Valley.

Bridgeview Vineyard & Winery

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PHOTO GREG VAUGHN / ALAMY STOCK PHOTO

The Illinois Valley is home to Bridgeview Vineyards and Winery, with grapes planted in the 1980s.

The Heart of Southern Oregon Wine Country

Jacksonville will charm you with more than its history. The quaint brick and wooden buildings are alive with great food, unique merchandise, live music and tasting rooms throughout town. Plus, miles of trails to take in the Valley views. We have something for everyone to enjoy all year around.

Let us be your home away from home.

“Meet the undiscovered wine country of your dreams” - SUNSET MAGAZINE

jacksonvilleoregon.org

(541) 899-8118 Photo credit: TouVelle House B&B

where

agriculture meets artistry

While wine country is always picturesque, few settings are as strikingly beautiful as the Applegate Valley in Southern Oregon. In what Sunset Magazine called “Wine country the way it should be,” here you’ll find a group of 19 unique wineries producing a diverse array of outstanding wines. Plan your trip @ www.applegatewinetrail.com

STEP OUTSIDE THE ORDINARY. STEP INSIDE THE P.A.L.M.

WHERE PEACE AND LOVE MATTER

Unique rooms. Unique Ashland experience. Make your reservation today! Book online at: palmcottages.com

LODG IN G G U ID

Tu Tu’ Tun Lodge

G N I G D O L

PHOTO JUSTIN BAILIE

A PLACE TO REST YOUR HEAD FOR THE NIGHT The lodging in Southern Oregon is as diverse as the food, wine and landscape. Do you prefer your overnight space to overlook a desert, a forest, a winery, a farm, an ocean, a river or a vibrant city downtown? Do you like friendly bed and breakfasts or quiet private retreats? Plan your trip to be long enough to sample more than one of the amazing options around the region.

DO SOMETHING GREAT  71

L O DG I N G HOME AWAY FROM HOME Oregon’s Crown Jewel Perched on the lake rim within Oregon’s only national park, Crater Lake Lodge offers an unforgettable experience. From May to October, stay at this historic lodge, which opened in 1915 and has been completely restored to its original rustic charm. Make reservations early, as it fills up fast here.

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Ashland Springs Hotel has been a landmark since it opened in 1925 and has been completely restored in a luxurious style with the hotel’s stories rising into the sky above Ashland. Just outside of downtown Ashland, on four acres of manicured gardens, is Lithia Springs Resort and the Waterstone Spa. This is the place to experience healing waters from a mineral hot spring pumped into private soaking tubs in each room. Ashland Springs Hotel

Historic Gems One of Oregon’s oldest lodging establishments lies in Jacksonville. Built in 1861, the Jacksonville Inn is rumored to be haunted, but that doesn’t stop guests from booking its rooms solid through the season. Secondoldest to the Jacksonville Inn is Wolf Creek Inn and Tavern, built in 1883 as respite on the Applegate Trail, and a hotel and restaurant to this day. The Prospect Historic Hotel Dinner House is another tried and true location that has stood the test of time. The lodging on the Upper Rogue River was built in 1889 to accommodate travelers to Crater Lake, and still serves guests meals and comfortable lodging in the woods by the river.

PHOTO TOP JOHN VALLS

Crater Lake Lodge

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Lonesome Duck Ranch

C.H.Bailey BaileyHouse House C.H.

Ranch Life

PHOTO TOP JAK WONDERLY

Cozy Inns For country views on a fifty-acre tree farm, book an overnight stay at the C.H. Bailey House, a charming bed and breakfast in Roseburg. Oak Street Station, the Coolidge House and Ashland Creek Inn in Ashland are all small, intimate lodgings that all offer a complimentary breakfast. Walk to restaurants and the theater and return to your own cozy room.

The Lonesome Duck Ranch offers terrific trout fishing on the Williamson River and peaceful, comfortable cabins for that rural getaway experience. At the Running Y Ranch Resort in Klamath Falls, a lodge and vacation rentals mean options for everyone, and a Basecamp for miles of hiking and biking trails, fishing on nearby rivers, or golfing on the popular Running Y course. Discover agritourism and farm stays at their best at Willow-Witt Ranch in Ashland and wake up in a different world, surrounded by meadows, forests and well-mannered farm animals.

DO SOMETHING GREAT  73

L OD GI N G On the Water Luxury and relaxation go hand in hand on the lower Rogue at the amazing Tu Tu’ Tun Lodge. On the banks of the Rogue River in Grants Pass, find the historic fishing lodge Weasku Inn. Tucked away on a bend of the Umpqua River, Steamboat Inn has cabins and suites that are a perfect romantic retreat. Seven Feathers Resort, run by the Cow Creek Band of the Umpqua Tribe of Indians, is near Roseburg along the South Umpqua. A thirty-three-foot bronze bald eagle called Skookum Hyak welcomes visitors to this hotel/casino. In Coos Bay en route to Cape Arago, visit Bay Point Landing.

High in the Mountains, a Night Under the Stars For camping experiences, check out some lodging options nestled between mountain peaks. North of Crater Lake, Diamond Lake Resort is a family-friendly lakeside destination for all seasons. Unplug and enjoy camping, swimming, boating, fishing, hiking and horseback riding in the summer or snowmobiling, innertubing and snowshoeing in the winter. Lake of the Woods, west of Klamath Lake, is a destination resort with three campgrounds, cabins to rent and RV sites. The lake is popular for boating and swimming, and there are also a variety of fish to reel in.

Lake of the Woods

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PHOTO TOP JOSHUA RAINEY, BOTTOM JAK WONDERLY

Steamboat Inn

YOUR COASTAL ESCAPE CABINS > AIRSTREAMS > LUXE RV SITES

Enjoy top-tier amenities including a stunning Clubhouse, Indoor Pool, Fitness Center, Kids Den, Game Room and Event Spaces. Discover the beauty of the Southern Oregon Coast, at Bay Point Landing.

BAYPOINTLANDING.COM | 541-351-9160

CITY CENTER WINE DISTRICT

•

ENOLOGY

•

EXPLORE

•

ELEVATE

•

OPENING SPRING 2022 330 N. Fir Street, Medford OR 97501 www.citycenterwinedistrict.com

Crater Lake National Park

N I L A N O I REG

PHOTO RICHARD BACON

INSIDER TRAVELER We want you to feel like a local here, complete with all of the insider knowledge you might need to navigate this special place like we do. Southern Oregon is an expansive and diverse place. From the sea to the mountains, the desert to the rivers, the following pages offer information you need to travel comfortably. Do you wonder: how will I get there, how long will it take, what will the weather be like,and what should I pack? Read on to love this place like we do.

DO SOMETHING GREAT  77

R EG IO NA L I N F O TAKE CARE OUT THERE The Southern Oregon landscape is breathtaking, rugged and full of options for adventure, and we hope to keep it that way for generations to come. When you’re exploring our amazing home, we ask that you take care of yourselves and the land. Here are some tips from our friends at Travel Oregon.

Prepare Do your research, prep for the trip and pack what you need. Explore landmarks near where you are staying, and remember that popular areas can get crowded during peak hours so adventure on a weekday, if you can. Make a backup plan, just in case your first choice is closed or too crowded. Keep your group small to minimize impact, keep some cash on you for parking fees, and always check the weather forecast before heading out!

Care Be conscious of the land and the people you share it with. Avoid crowding already busy areas like parking lots, and always park in designated areas. Read and follow the posted signs, stay on the trail at all times and take your own ability level into consideration before adventuring out. Bring either a mask or your vaccination card with you, as local businesses may be allowed to ask for proof of vaccination, or require guests to wear a mask. Leave no trace by packing out everything you packed in, including trash.

Take some time to learn about the diverse cultures that inhabit this region. Be welcoming and respectful to all you meet, and remember that the locals are welcoming you into their backyard. A “thank you” goes a long way for any park rangers or employees you encounter. Do what you can to support local, and remember that tourism is a huge part of the economy here. Spending money in the communities you’re visiting can help them out tremendously.

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PHOTOS JAK WONDERLY

Connect

The

PADDLED Pub est. 2016

On the Rogue River ☑ ☑ ☑ ☑

Float the river Watch the sunset See wildlife Enjoy great food and beer

www.ThePaddledPub.com Space Limited- Book Today! 541-479-5061

Oregon’s Unique Pub Experience

Rafting - Kayaking - Trail Running - Hiking

4 Hours or 4 Days Family Friendly

www.OrangeTorpedo.com

A Unique River Adventure

R EG IO NA L I N F O HOW TO SOUTHERN OREGON Follow these tips to experience Southern Oregon’s best.

Southern Oregon Weather The weather in this region is as diverse as the region itself. In general, Southern Oregon is a temperate region that boasts warm days, cool nights and a fair amount of precipitation. Towards the west and the coast, visitors are likely to find cooler and wetter conditions, while visitors going east to the Outback will experience hotter and dryer days. Wherever you are in the region, temps can reach over 100 degrees in summer but nights can be deceptively cold. Even when the forecast calls for sun, rain and thunderstorms are never truly out of the question. Be sure to pack gear just in case the weather changes suddenly.

Bring a Map While most of our communities do have cell phone service, rural and mountainous areas may not have coverage. Do not rely on your GPS or phone map for accurate directions. Know where you’re going, and bring along a paper map. Many public buildings and private properties are not able to accommodate visitors. Please be aware and don’t trespass.

Enjoy Responsibly

While most services in Oregon take credit cards, there are places in rural areas that only take cash. Trailhead parking also often requires either the purchase of a forest pass in advance, or a pay-at-the-site dropbox.

Wild Rivers Our gorgeous rivers are a huge appeal here, but be aware of risks. Swift currents, undertows, and whirlpools are common in our waterways. Wear life vests and supervise children.

Wildfire Prevention July through October is peak wildfire season in Oregon, so please be vigilant about extinguishing and disposing of cigarettes. Know fire risks and respect fire restrictions, including campfire bans. Avoid parking or driving on dry grass, as your vehicle can spark a wildfire. To help us prevent wildfires and protect our natural landscapes, be responsible and report wildfires immediately by dialing 911.

Air Quality Should a wildfire occur, or if a large enough controlled burn takes place, the air quality in some regions might drop, which can make strenuous physical activity hazardous for people, especially those with respiratory issues. Check Travel Southern Oregon website Visitor Resource pages for real-time air quality and smoke information.

PHOTO ALEX JORDAN

The local wine, beer, spirits and cannabis scene is amazing here! Be responsible as you plan to imbibe. Uber, Lyft and public transit exist in the more densely populated areas, while local taxi services are available in many other places. Or, try planning your day around what is in walking distance.

Carry Cash

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GREAT CATS WORLD PARK

40+ Cats 17+ Different Species Guided Tours • Gift Shop

(541) 592-2957

www.GreatCatsWorldPark.com 27919 Redwood Hwy • Cave Junction, OR 97523

R EG IO NA L I N F O GETTING HERE Car Like most other regions in the nation, most of Southern Oregon can be traversed via car on the national highway system. If you don’t bring your own vehicle, there are rental car options in Grants Pass, Medford, Ashland, Roseburg, North Bend, Klamath Falls and Coos Bay.

Bike One minute on a bike, guests can find themselves riding through a lush forest along a crystal clear river, while the next minute they might find themselves riding up to the next winery on their list. With scenic byways and even a chance to ride the rim at Crater Lake, Southern Oregon is bike country. Bike rentals are available in Klamath Falls, Bandon, Medford, Ashland and more.

Plane The main airport in Southern Oregon is the Rogue Valley International Medford Airport (MFR), which connects to twelve major cities across the Pacific Northwest and the Southwest United States. The Southwest Oregon Regional Airport is the only commercial airport on the Oregon Coast and has service to and from Denver and San Francisco. Other smaller airports dot the region, offering a landing space to private flyers as well as the occasional connecting flight to cities like Portland.

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Bus and Train There are several bus options available for visitors that can even pick you up from out of state. The Southwest route offered by Point, an intercity bus service, takes visitors through twelve different towns in Southern Oregon, including Medford and Ashland. Some bus routes are connected via the Amtrak Cascades Train Service, which connects 18 cities throughout the Pacific Northwest, including Southern Oregon towns Chemult and Klamath Falls. Greyhound buses are another option available in many towns, while the Rogue Valley Transportation District offers public transit through most of the central valley region.

DRIVE TIME TO DESTINATION CITIES IN SOUTHERN OREGON Portland

San Francisco

Boise

Coos Bay

4 hr (223 mi)

9 hr (527 mi)

9 hr 25 (555 mi)

Roseburg

2 hr 54 (176 mi)

7 hr (458 mi)

8 hr 7 (485 mi)

Medford

4 hr 17 (272 mi)

5 hr 39 (363 mi)

8 hr (472 mi)

Crater Lake (South entrance)

4 hr 27 (268)

6 hr 8 (398 mi)

6 hr 41 (407 mi)

Klamath Falls

4 hr 34 (278)

5 hr 33 (355 mi)

6 hr 51 (417 mi)

Your Place to Escape…

Stay…

Dine…

Relax…

PLAY! I-5, Exit 99 • Canyonville, OR • Info 800.548.8461 • Hotel Res 888.677.7771 sevenfeathers.com

Meet me at Dancin. “A perfect wine country experience.” ~ Hilarie Larson

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“One of the most innovative producers…in Southern Oregon.” ~ Forbes

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Travel Southern Oregon - 2022

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Hiking

Culinary

Golf

Heritage

Music & Arts

Theater

Biking

Rafting & Fishing