Southern Oregon & Coastal
As you will soon find out for yourself, Southern Oregon has a special charm. Stretching from the sea to the desert, with mountains, lakes and rivers in between, this diverse and welcoming region has a different adventure to choose from everywhere you go.
In these pages, you’ll learn more about Crater Lake, the Rogue Valley, the Umpqua Valley, the Klamath Basin, the Oregon Outback and the Oregon Coast. Within these regions, you’ll discover landscapes of unparalleled beauty, history honored by world-famous theatres and museums, and food trails and wine pairings that pay homage to the land they were made.
We hope you’ll be inspired to make plans to visit one or all of our regions for their special offerings. Come one, come all—wine lover, theatergoer, history buff, hiker, cyclist, angler, birdwatcher, nature-lover—and see what we’re all about.
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 Brandon Nixon
The 2023 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.
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.
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Explore Southern Oregon from the center of it all.
Our Ashland properties are the perfect base-camp for adventure. Stay in comfort and choose from our unique hotels with farm-to-table restaurants and spas. From the historic, European style charm of Ashland Springs Hotel in downtown, mineral soaking tubs, Wine Garden tasting room and lush gardens at Lithia Springs Resort, to retro-modern ambiance, and epic views at Ashland Hills Hotel, we have something for everyone.
Southern Oregon is the heart of outdoor adventure, cultural thrills, historical exploration and delicious bites. Whether in wide-open spaces or cities, expect a stunning backdrop.
Coast: Due to ancient tectonic uplift and terrane accretion, the southern coastline is rugged and steep. Find sea cliffs, long and secluded beaches and the Oregon Dunes.
Mountains: The Cascade Range stretches through Southern Oregon to Mount McLoughlin near Klamath Falls. The CascadeSiskiyou National Monument sits at the convergence of the Cascade, Klamath and Siskiyou mountain ranges and the Warner Mountains stretch into northeastern California. Find ample recreational activities throughout the peaks of Southern Oregon.
Oregon Outback: Low valleys and high mountain ranges make up this basin and range land. See where wide-open skies meet a vast high desert and stars shine their brightest. Old West history, adventures on bikes and hikes in awe-striking geography, and secluded quiet awaits in the Oregon Outback.
Wine Country: Latitude, elevation and prevailing oceanic winds provide a seven-month growing season. With the mountainous geography plus daily temperature changes, the Rogue and Umpqua valleys have dozens of microclimates, resulting in award-winning wines.
Enjoy the journey as much as the destination on these lovely drives.
ROGUE-UMPQUA SCENIC BYWAY - 172 miles
Roseburg to Gold Hill
Go for 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.
UMPQUA RIVER SCENIC BYWAY - 66 miles
Oakland to Reedsport
Go for historic towns known for rich natural resources that attracted fur traders, loggers, fishermen and farmers more than a century ago. Follow the Umpqua River on its path to the sea through the beautiful forests of the Coast Range.
OREGON OUTBACK SCENIC BYWAY - 171 miles
La Pine through Lakeview to the state line
Go for geologic wonders, wildlife and alkali flats on this drive. Pass through 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 - 363 miles
Astoria to Brookings
Go for 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.
VOLCANIC LEGACY SCENIC BYWAY - 500 miles
Lassen Volcanic National Park to Crater Lake National Park
Go for a volcano-to-volcano journey providing not only a glimpse of this region’s volcanic past, but also an opportunity for adventure, exploration, nature and culture.
• It’s the deepest lake in America (1,943 feet deep)
• It’s one of the snowiest places in the United States (annual average of 43 feet of snow)
• It was formed nearly 8,000 years ago by the fall of a volcano
• The changing water level of the lake is a mystery—scientists are still attempting to discover where the water goes.
Crater Lake was formed nearly 8,000 years ago when 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.
Thousands of visitors each year peer into its impossibly blue, pristine waters. The park is open year-round, but only the south entrance is plowed to the rim in the winter. Explore Steel Visitor Center or Rim Village Visitor Center to learn more about the park and its natural wonders.
• Tour the Park: Drive or cycle the 33-mile Rim Drive, stopping at viewpoints and interpretive signs along the way. Tip: 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.
• Hike the Park: Enjoy about 90 miles of trails around the lake with breathtaking views. One of the most popular hikes is Garfield Peak.
• Visit Historic Crater Lake Lodge: Built in 1915 and perched 1,000 feet above the lake surface, enjoy a breakfast to fuel for the day, a post-hike afternoon drink in the Great Hall, or a well-deserved dinner at the lodge.
• Get on the water: Take a boat tour to Wizard Island, a cinder cone within the caldera that rises from the lake.
• Camp in the Park: Stay at Mazama or Lost Creek Campground. Opt for a bit more luxury at The Cabins at Mazama Village or Crater Lake Lodge.
Explore the Circle of Discovery—the seven national park sites in Southern Oregon and Northern California that show off the United States deepest lake, tallest trees, steamiest hydrothermal areas, finest marble caves and most dramatic waterfalls. Follow the multiday family road trip for a tour of adventure and fun.
The Northern California coast shows off the coast redwood. The tree has existed in this region for 20 million years, can live 2,000 years and grows from a seed the same size as a tomato’s to reach heights of up to 367 feet and a width of twenty-two feet at its base. Walk among the impressive trees in misty coastal air.
Next, go north 60 miles to…
Head 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.
Travel 150 miles through the rich Rogue Valley and find…
The south entrance is open year-round to Crater Lake. 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.
Drop south 60 miles to Klamath Falls then to… TULE NATIONAL MONUMENT
Ten miles south of the outdoor-centric town of Klamath Falls 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.)
Continue 30 miles farther for…
Here volcanic eruptions of more than a half-million years created a fascinating landscape. Explore one of this area’s 700 lava tube caves, self-guided or on a tour, and don’t miss many examples of Native American rock art throughout the landscape.
Head 140 miles south to…
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.
Finish the Circle of Discovery at…
Here the history of the California Gold Rush is surrounded by lakes, waterfalls and creeks.
A world of discovery awaits you in each of the five unique regions of Southern Oregon. 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. From rich culture and heritage to stunning scenery and adventure, discover new experiences at every step.
The breathtaking landscape begins near Crater Lake, where the Rogue River springs into canyon walls from the Cascade Mountains.
Beyond the gorge, the community of Union Creek offers rustic cabin stays, a stunning hiking trail and handmade ice cream. South along the river, Shady Cove sits on calm waters awaiting eager river rafters to float just outside of town.
A launching point for jet boats racing into the Hellgate Canyon, Grants Pass also rests on the Rogue River; a perfect option for fishing, kayaking and rafting. A quick trip from there, Medford—the hub of commerce for Southern Oregon—hosts the Rogue Valley Airport (MFR) with more than forty flights a day.
Central Point and Eagle Point are smaller towns with big experiences: The Rogue Valley Food Trail leads visitors to places for farm-to-table dining, award-winning cheese and phenomenal vineyard and orchard scenery.
Ashland, the crown jewel of Southern Oregon, is home to mountain bikers, theatergoers and sweeping views. The vibrant downtown
district paints a picture of a cozy college town with an authentic scene for creativity. Home of the Oregon Shakespeare Festival, visitors and locals alike catch indoor and outdoor performances from spring until fall. Outdoor adventure travels right through town with local trails and access to mountains and lakes.
History comes alive in Jacksonville with more than 100 historic buildings dotting California Street that were created after the founding of the Gold Rush town in 1851. It’s home to the Britt Music & Arts Festival—the Pacific Northwest’s premier outdoor summer performing arts festival—and the gateway to the Applegate Valley, an early settlement and today’s wine country.
As it splits from the Rogue, the Illinois River flows south along the Redwood Highway west of Grants Pass. Along the way, experience world-class fishing and stop for jerky at Taylor’s Sausage in Cave Junction . Then, visit the Chateau at the Oregon Caves (closed for rehabilitation until further notice) and the Oregon Caves National Monument, otherwise known as the marble halls of Oregon.
Descending from alpine peaks to sandy shores, the Umpqua Valley delivers scenic beauty and recreational abundance every step of the way.
Begin in the Cascade Mountains at Diamond Lake, where views of Mount Thielsen reflect off the clear alpine water. With year-round outdoor activities including snowmobiling, tubing and skiing in the winter; or hiking, cycling, swimming and fishing in the summer, plus the Umpqua Hot Springs to warm up year-round—there isn’t a wrong time to visit.
Journey downriver where short hikes and seventeen incredible waterfalls dot the historical Umpqua Scenic Byway. Looking for a bigger adventure? Try whitewater rafting or fly fishing on the Umpqua River. Cast a line for the legendary steelhead in spring and fall; hire a guide or wade the waters on your own.
Outside of the lush forest, Roseburg—the biggest city in the Umpqua Valley—offers riverfront parks, farm-to-table dining and a plethora of wineries to explore. In the summer, live music lights up the waterfront for the city’s annual series, Music on the Half Shell at Stewart Park. While venturing around the historic downtown district, consider taking the self-guided tour of the Roseburg Blast: an explosion that leveled part of downtown in 1959.
Continue south of Roseburg to Winston , and get up close to lions, tigers and bears at the Wildlife Safari: Oregon’s drivethrough zoo. The town is also home to award-winning wineries such as Abacela and Spangler. Farther down the interstate, Canyonville holds a lot of history; visit the Pioneer Indian Museum and the historical covered Milo Academy Bridge. The town also offers a slice of excitement at the Seven Feathers Casino Resort, where gaming and entertainment are on hand.
Continuing the journey, follow Highway 138 along the majestic Umpqua River through Sutherlin, Elkton and the Coast Range. Elkton is a small town with big maple trees and even bigger charm. Visit cafes, bakeries, general stores and—of course—more wineries. Soak up the beauty of the insects and flowers at the Butterfly Pavilion, where the best time to visit is June through September. 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.
Like a well-kept secret, the city of Roseburg and its surrounding areas are the ideal place for those that want to enjoy some much-needed time away without the crowds and busyness present at other ‘vacation’ towns. A lush forest sits just outside of town, teeming with campgrounds, hiking trails and waterfalls. Crater Lake and the Southern Oregon Coast are both short, picturesque drives away. There are over 30 wineries and multiple breweries within a 30-mile radius. The Umpqua River System winds through and around town,
and plays host to some of the best year-round fishing. And that’s just the shortlist of offerings. So be the first of your friends to discover this gem in the state of Oregon and have your own experience in Roseburg.
Colossal lakes, expansive skies, enough space to try every outdoor activity under the sun and the highest concentration of bald eagles in the lower forty-eight states; you must be at the Klamath Basin.
Start at Lake of the Woods, a perfect, high mountain resort getaway for the family. Spend the day hiking or boating, then return to the stunning alpine scenery and have a bite at the resort restaurant or Marina Pizzeria. After that, camp or enjoy one of the resort’s many cabin stays.
Another getaway option is Rocky Point Resort which sits on Pelican Bay on the west shore of Upper Klamath Lake. Enjoy views of towering Ponderosa pines while kayaking or canoeing on the serene lake.
Upper Klamath Lake lies in the heart of the largest migratory bird route in the west: the Pacific Flyway. Billions of birds migrate through the region each year including sandhill cranes, pelicans and hawks. In February, check out the Winter Wings Festival, the country’s oldest birdwatching festival.
Chiloquin, born as a campout of the Klamath Tribes, became a bustling timber and railroad center in the state. Today, the outpost 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. The self-guided walking tour gives a sense of the downtown district where entertainment, local history and architecture—in Gothic Revival and Art Deco styles—collide.
Learn about life in the basin over the years and immerse yourself in Native American artifacts and Western art by heading to the Favell Museum and the Klamath County Museum. Outdoors, hike or ride the many trails in Moore Park or ride along the OC&E Woods Line State Trail, a 109-mile, rail-to-trail conversion.
The wide-open blue sky hovers over a rimrock and sage landscape in the Oregon Outback; a breathtaking expanse as far as the eye can see. This serene, beautiful region of Oregon is rich with culture, history and geology.
Start the tour of the Oregon Outback in Lakeview, located at the southernmost end of Highway 395. Known as “Oregon’s Tallest Town,” Lakeview sits at 4,800 feet in elevation on the flanks of the Warner Mountains. The town is popular for its rodeo and the Lake County Round-Up (celebrating 104 consecutive years in September 2023), country music and rodeo queens.
A short drive north takes the tour to Warner Canyon Ski Area, open in the winter season. This little hill is one of Oregon’s bestkept secrets for lovers of snow and slopes. Since 1938, it 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.
Visit the small town called Plush, located through the mountains east of Warner Canyon. Full of an abundance of history and geology, Plush is the birthplace of Oregon’s state gemstone: the sunstone. Dig for your own sunstones in a public mining area or purchase some from a miner or store. Not far away, 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.
Continue the tour west to Paisley, where the town hosts the annual Mosquito Festival. In the foothills, Summer Lake Hot Springs offers soaking pools, camping and cabins to registered guests. 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.
Despite its name suggesting snow and ice, Christmas Valley is known for its towering sand dunes which attract ATV enthusiasts year-round. Just beyond the town, finish your tour of the Oregon Outback at Fort Rock, an immense volcanic tuff ring visible from miles away. Stroll around and take in the scenery and that wide-open sky.
The grand seascapes and comfortable living of the Oregon Coast are sure to astound visitors with scenery of sandy beaches and crashing waves. Sweeping views and scenic vistas can be found throughout all 363 miles of the Pacific Coast Scenic Byway. However, the southern part of the Oregon Coast is magical in its rural, rugged and craggy demeanor—all views, few people.
Begin just over the Oregon-California border in Brookings. This town features the lush floral garden, Azalea Park, and Harris Beach State Park where you can look out over offshore sea stacks that are home to a variety of nesting birds, including the tufted puffin.
Continue north to Gold Beach, a town that got its name from gold found in the sand in the 1850s. Though there is no more gold, there is still plenty to enjoy in town. Try fishing for salmon, crabbing or jet boating on the Rogue River. If being on the water isn’t a priority, attend one of the many festivals in town showcasing classic cars to brews to art.
Continue along the scenic byway to the oldest town on the Oregon Coast: Port Orford. There, visit Battle Rock Park, the site of a famous battle between Native Americans and early settlers. Port Orford is also known for beautiful art galleries, delicious, upscale seafood eateries and Oregon’s oldest, most westerly lighthouse, the Cape Blanco Lighthouse
Next on the tour, a city famous for cheese and golf resorts wedged between sand dunes, Bandon has a lot to explore. Take a stroll on the beach on a foggy morning or check out the Face Rock Creamery, a new addition to the Bandon cheese historical timeline.
Coos Bay and North Bend compromise the Southern Coast’s largest cities and biggest populations. Shore Acres State Park is dotted with stunning dahlias from August to October; Cape Arago extends into the Pacific Ocean creating a mystical cove ready for adventure. In these areas, watch for whales and impending coastal storms from the overhanging 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 47-mile stretch loved by hikers, nature lovers and ATV enthusiasts alike.
Cape Blanco Lighthouse is the oldest and most westerly lighthouse in Oregon.
always more to discover in
fall harvest to fly-fishing, art walks to jet boats, cave exploration
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From the sandy seashore to the expansive high desert, outdoor opportunities in Southern Oregon go far beyond the horizon. Explore mountain trails that weave through alpine scenery or chase the roaring ocean waves. Make your way through desert playas or ride the river rapids next to endless forest acres. Whether you’re looking for an active adventure with a rewarding view or a picnic in the park, you can find it all here.
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Crashing waves and rugged cliffs reveal the beauty at Cape Arago State Park. Shore pines and sandy beaches mark Bullards Beach State Park; at the end of the road to the beach, find the Coquille River Lighthouse. For an exciting adventure, scuba diving and windsurfing are both popular at Humbug State Park. Hike over eight miles of trails at Cape Blanco State Park, which is home to the historic Cape Blanco Lighthouse.
With five lifts to choose from, the Mt. Ashland Ski Area in the gorgeous Siskiyou Mountains is a powder paradise. Hardcore enthusiasts take advantage of the opportunity to cat ski more than 600 acres of terrain on Mount Bailey. A hidden gem in the remote Warner Mountains, the Warner Canyon Ski Area has trail options perfect for ski and snowboarding beginners. Lake of the Woods, Diamond Lake and Crater Lake all have routes for Nordic skiing; Diamond Lake is also known for snow tubing and sledding in the winter months. The fun doesn’t end with the snow, these three destinations are also popular Southern Oregon camping spots in the summer.
Upper Klamath Lake is the largest body of water by surface area in Oregon. Eons in the making, the Oregon Caves National Monument was created by acidic water seeping into marble rock and forming the caves. Abert Rim is one of the highest fault scarps in the country, rising at 2,490 feet above the high desert landscape. The Rogue River Gorge is a deep canyon cut through basalt.
The Riverfront Park in Roseburg follows the Umpqua River for more than a mile. Various waterfront parks in Klamath Falls sit on the shores of the Klamath River and Klamath Lake. In Ashland, Lithia Park is a stunning place to see vibrant autumn leaves and a forested canyon.
The best time to visit Summer Lake Wildlife Area is April through May to see migrating flocks of shorebirds. The Klamath Marsh Wildlife Refuge is a sanctuary for migratory birds and hosts diverse species of birds passing through the refuge each year. The Hart Mountain National Antelope Refuge is a place to see pronghorn antelope and views of the Warner Valley.
Towering hills of sand meet the ocean at the Oregon Dunes Recreation Area —a spot to explore vast landscapes with an ATV. The Rogue River is famous for jet boating tour opportunities. In the winter, try snowmobiling at Diamond Lake or at the groomed track at Crater Lake.
Find the best road-cyclist-friendly routes in Southern Oregon. After all, Oregon pioneered the Scenic Bikeway program. Wind through gorgeous scenery, history and community, made easy for cyclists to experience by way of printable maps and on-road signage.
89 miles | 4,327 ft Vertical | Challenging | Start in Lakeview
Remote is an understatement—enjoy expansive views and ample solitude on this challenging loop where the high desert basin and range meets the forest in deep south Central Oregon. Rewards include views of lakes, pronghorn, wetland birds, bighorn sheep and sage grouse.
61 miles | 3,028 ft Vertical | Moderate | Start in Port Orford
Start with a cup of coffee in the small fishing town of Port Orford. Ride along the Pacific Ocean and the Wild & Scenic Elk River past cranberry bogs, basalt sea stacks and vast ocean views.
55 miles | 5,085 ft Vertical | Extreme | Start in Ashland
Labeled extreme for a reason—get most of the 5,000 feet of climbing in the first 15 miles. It’s worth it when you reach spectacular views of the Bear Creek Valley and Pilot Rock, a 25-million-year-old volcanic plug.
OREGON TIMBER TRAIL
669 miles
The Oregon Timber Trail is a world-class bikepacking destination. The 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 twenty-to thirty-day backcountry trip. Check conditions in advance on the OregonTimberTrail.org. Paisley Adventure is one outfitter providing rentals and tours, shuttles, bike repair and resupply drops in Paisley.
72 miles
Famous for rugged, endless singletrack, the North Umpqua can be ridden in sections with a support vehicle, or done over numerous days as a bikepacking trip. The trail is broken into four sections, with camping spots and other much-needed amenities, like hot springs along the way.
21 miles
Shuttle the Best of Mount Ashland route for some of the best trails Ashland Watershed area has to offer, including Time Warp, Lower Bull Gap and Upper Lynx trails. Experience fast, flowing trails with rocky terrain and natural jumps and drops on the 7,000 feet of decent.
13.5 miles
Experience a variety of mountain bike terrain developed for beginner, intermediate and advanced riders. The trail provides more challenges the farther it is climbed. Up top, expect exposed steep and rocky descents. Beginners can opt to stay lower and practice their technique on rollers, tabletop features and bermed turns.
Southern Oregon offers a variety of beautiful landscapes from forest and desert to the ocean and along rivers—pick a trail and get out there.
2.8-mile out-and-back | Challenging | Best May through October
Near Ashland, this is a popular but challenging hike with rocky scrambling and elevation gain through the lush Cascade-Siskiyou National Monument. The reward is breathtaking views of the Cascade Range, Mount Shasta and the Rogue Valley.
2.0-mile out-and-back | Easy | Best March through October
Right by Crater Lake, Plaikni Falls is an easy walk in a mature forest with a short climb to the falls. The trail is popular for hikers and birders, so expect others. This trail is a nice break in which to stretch the legs while driving around the rim.
9.2-mile out-and-back | Challenging | Best July through December
Located in the Umpqua Valley, Mount Thielsen offers incredible views atop a challenging hike. For those that make it to the top, expect steep terrain above the treeline and views of the east and west sides of the Cascades from Sisters to Mount Shasta. The area is popular for camping, cross-country skiing and hiking.
9.9-mile out-and-back | Moderate | Best May through October
Near Lakeview in the Oregon Outback, start at the Hot Springs Campground and see the open space of the Hart Mountain National Antelope Refuge. The hike (and scramble) offers stunning high desert views at the highest point of Hart Mountain plus sightings of protected wildlife along the way.
7.5-mile loop, plus 3.6 to 5.1 depending on access trail | Moderate Best March through October
Make a long day or a backpacking trip out of this loop in the Klamath Basin. Access the loop via the Clover Creek Trail for the shortest access point. Take in the sweeping views of alpine lakes, and don’t count on encountering anything but nature and wildlife on the loop.
2.7-mile out-and-back | Moderate | Year-Round
A few miles south of Gold Beach, this trail travels to the lower levels of the cape and offers some of the most scenic portions of the Oregon Coast. The trail also provides a chance to enjoy views of gray whales on their bi-annual migrations.
Pilot Rock Plaikni Falls PHOTO TOP GEORGE OSTERTAG / ALAMY STOCK PHOTO BOTTOM KEVIN SCHAFER / ALAMY STOCK PHOTO
Outstanding locations with stunning backdrops of mountain scenes, lush forests and beaches, and award-winning course designs make Southern Oregon a premier golfing destination.
This 18-hole course stretches over a bluff in Bandon with astonishing views of the Pacific Ocean. There is on-site lodging and dining as well.
This Dan Hixson-designed course was built near views of the South Umpqua river. The course plays host to an RV resort and cottages so golfers can make the most of their time at Bar Run.
This Medford course was designed by two-time PGA winner John Fought and has been voted sixth among the best fifty courses in the country by Golf World magazine.
This course has a traditional layout built over a former horse ranch in the breathtaking Rogue Valley. Grants Pass Golf Club was established in 1972.
Find Oregon’s only award-winning Arnold Palmer-designed golf course in Klamath Falls. Against the views of endless trees and wetlands in Klamath Falls, this course has been ranked among America’s 100 Greatest Public Golf Courses by Golf Digest.
On the coast, this is a course with options for every skill level. This course is known for salmon and steelhead sightings in the creek nearby.
This course was awarded “Best Value” by Golf Digest and features a practice facility aside from the 18-hole course. Take a break at Stone Ridge’s Top of the Ridge restaurant and enjoy views of the Rogue Valley.
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
Arnold Palmer Signature Course, Running Y Ranch Resort
Located across more than 3,600 acres of scenic landscape, The Running Y Resort provides timeless comforts and access to an array of activities no matter the season. Come experience breathtaking vistas, world-renowned golf, endless outdoor adventures, and a full-service wellness spa.
It’s the perfect place to get carried away in nature.
It’s true that Southern Oregon is home to Crater Lake and access to the coastline of the Pacific Ocean, but that only scratches the surface of the network of waterways in the region. Although fishing and rafting are popular activities in the area, there’s so much to explore at the nearby rivers and lakes dotting the magnificent landscape.
From its source in Crater Lake’s caldera, the Rogue River is a wild and dazzling river carving its way west through Southern Oregon. From the early days of the gold rush through the modern era of the Wild West, the river has been renowned for its spectacular opportunities for adventure and scenic beauty.
The Upper Rogue river is rugged, and the rushing whitewater is a sightseer’s dream. Portions of the Upper Rogue are fantastic for steelhead fishing and kayaking. The Lower Rogue is a notable whitewater rafting destination with would-be permit holders lining up months in advance. From the Cascades to the coast, the North Umpqua is another legendary river in Southern Oregon. Here, kayak, boat, fish for steelhead and raft while surrounded by infinite beauty.
The Illinois River is known to have clear, still pools of water peppered throughout portions of the river; this is where fly fishing for salmon and steelhead rules the region. While remote, this tributary to the Rogue is perfect for fishing in serene solitude. The Williamson River offers amazing trout fishing on its 100-mile journey into Upper Klamath Lake. Covering terrain such as desert, mountains and, finally, into the ocean, the Klamath River is a gem for trout and whitewater rafting.
As for lake fishing, Southern Oregon does not disappoint. Lake of the Woods, Upper Klamath Lake, Diamond Lake, Odell Lake and Crescent Lake have options for anglers of all skill levels.
Southern Oregon is home to more than 500 miles of designated Wild & Scenic rivers–the most protected freeflowing rivers and streams in the nation due to their remarkable scenic, recreational, geological, wildlife, and historic qualities, among other values. Darren and Jen Roe, owners of ROE Outfitters, shared a few tips they’ve gleaned through forty years of experience to get the most out of a river trip.
Wild & Scenic river access can be rugged—four-wheel drive with clearance is important to access the river.
Always check the water levels on pacificcorp.com to ensure levels are high enough to raft.
• Be prepared for Class V rivers. If you’re not an expert boatman, it’s best to use a guide.
• Wear life jackets, know where you’re going, and be sure someone knows where you are.
Overall, guides are a great option to use if you don’t have a strong skillset with rivers. Take the pressure off and spend a bit of money for a safe and memorable experience.
Being on the river during the early morning—watching the stream flows come up is Darren Roe’s favorite part of the experience. Everything is alive when the river comes up and again in the late evening when the river starts to drop and expose food for creatures. Jennifer Roe appreciates the serenity, plus with limited cell service—a great day on the river also serves as a digital detox.
PHOTO JAK WONDERLY
If you’re traveling with kids, grandparents or it’s a big family reunion, there’s an activity in Southern Oregon for everyone. Experience enriching excursions, outdoor adventure and even an up-close meeting with a cheetah.
Head to Medford and race go-karts with the family at Rogue Karting. Venture to Fort Umpqua, a trading fort circa the 1880s.
On the Illinois River, the Siskiyou Field Institute provides field courses and education on the Klamath-Siskiyou region. In Winston, Oregon’s first drive-thru zoo, Wildlife Safari, stuns visitors with encounters of zebras and hippos. In Grants Pass, Wildlife Images features animals native to the Pacific Northwest that have been rescued and rehabilitated. Kids’ natural curiosity will have room to expand here. The Oregon Vortex and House of Mystery in Gold Hill is a glimpse into
One benefit of smaller towns and remote locations is that the stars come alive at night. Thom Batty, owner of Tall Town Bike & Camp in Lakeview, said you don’t have to get far out of town to see an amazing difference in the sky. Follow Batty’s tips to get the most out of a trip to stargaze in Southern Oregon.
• Find your spot before it’s dark. Forest Service and BLM campgrounds or dispersed camping on public lands are great options for stargazing. Be respectful and don’t go on private land.
• Be aware of the lack of services in remote locations. Come prepared with provisions to take care of yourself including gas, food and water. Also, pack a map of the area as there may be no cell service, and carry a spare tire (know how to change it too!)
• Stop by Tall Town Bike & Camp for star charts and guide books to gain knowledge of what you’re observing in the sky. The local library also offers great resources.
this strange world where physical facts reverse and perceptual phenomena prevail. The ScienceWorks Hands-On Museum in Ashland lets kids tinker, experiment and play. Kids can get interactive with science and nature at the Children’s Museum of Klamath Falls
When looking for something delicious to end a fun-filled day, follow the Rogue Valley Food Trail for amazing eateries, healthy treats and abundant farms and ranches.
If anyone in the family is a thrillseeker or daredevil, Southern Oregon has a lot to offer in the adrenaline-rush department. There’s plenty of adventure on the Rogue River including rafting and jet boat tours. Spinreel Dune Buggy & ATV in North Bend offers off-road vehicle rentals for riding over the dunes. Rogue Valley Family Fun Center in Central Point has fun around every corner, including batting cages, bumper boats and an arcade. For adventures off the ground, Crater Lake Zipline and Sasquatch Hollow take flight over Klamath Falls. And, Rogue Valley Zipline takes the whole family to new heights in Jackson County. When visiting Southern Oregon in the winter, Mt. Ashland, Warner Canyon Ski Area and Willamette Ski Resort, are powder destinations for skiers and snowboarders.
The people of Southern Oregon take pride in creativity and pushing the boundaries of style within the community. The first Chautauqua lectures in Oregon began here 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. Tour around Southern Oregon and celebrate the creativity and inspiration along the way.
Arts and culture have been at the heart of human experience in Southern Oregon from the early days of Indigenous society. Practices and art forms attributed to Native Americans—such as weaving baskets, sewing beadwork and creating feather adornments using materials from the landscape—continue to this day.
The rich culture that Southern Oregon maintains was later seen in people like Peter Britt, a non-native settler who arrived in Jacksonville in 1852 with five dollars in his pocket. Britt spent fifty years of life as many things including a photographer and horticulturist. The premier outdoor music festival in Southern Oregon—the Britt Festival —takes place on the grounds of his former home.
Angus Bowmer came to Oregon with the intention of teaching English at Southern Oregon Normal School in Ashland in 1931. However, with a passion for theatrics in his heart, Bowmer persuaded the city to support an outdoor production of the works of Shakespeare. Bowmer’s legacy remains as the world-famous Oregon Shakespeare Festival, with stunning theaters, an impressive company of actors and thousands of attendees annually.
Southern Oregon embraces and defends esteemed arts, preserving them for generations to come. The power of community is seen in steadfast commitment to save theaters from neglect or destruction. Volunteers staff history museums and community art galleries when funds are tight, proving that art and culture runs deep within the region’s history. Just being here will inspire the creativity within you.
Home to renowned and beloved theaters that boast incredible venues and quality productions, Southern Oregon inspires. Although Ashland’s Oregon Shakespeare Festival is outstanding in history and attraction, the greater region also abounds with theater productions and the performing arts. With so many options of expression and culture to choose from, you might believe that everyone is a thespian here. The determination and passion—not to mention the talent—of the community is what fuels the life of every independent theater. Here, you will find local and national talent pursuing exceptional performances in everything from musical to dramatic, with the goal of education, inspiration and entertainment.
Ashland is widely known for the historical Oregon Shakespeare Festival. The continuing seasons reflect their commitment to supporting and amplifying diversity on and off stage; OSF’s ongoing efforts currently include cementing a new inclusion, diversity, equity and accessibility structure to the campus. Travel to Ashland to celebrate Southern Oregon’s hub for theater and art. Ashland is also home to the Oregon Cabaret Theatre. Located in a renovated church, the Oregon Cabaret Theatre entertains with dinner and show. Watch musicals and musical acts in the heart of town, just steps from the Shakespeare festival campus. Be transported to other worlds through Ashland’s performing arts scene.
The Craterian Theater , an anchor of performing arts in Medford, was nearly just a memory before the town rallied
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to keep the mission alive. Today, the theater is the hub of Medford’s performing arts community and is the site of dozens of productions every year. Not far away, the Holly Theatre in Medford is a historic Spanish Colonial Revival theater built in 1930. With the mission to bring performances of all kinds (including comedians, film festivals and operas), the renovations of the Holly Theatre are projected to finish in late 2023.
A fitting place for performing arts, the Camelot Theatre in Talent has been a staple in Southern Oregon since 1990. After first making its mark in an old feed store, the 104-seat theater now hosts musicals and plays year-round in the new James Morrison Collier Theatre, a state-of-the-art, Art Deco-style building downtown.
For musical acts, dance and plays, the Rogue Theater in Grants Pass is a must-see venue. Another Art Deco gem, the theater was built in 1938 and is one of the town’s oldest buildings. The Ross Ragland Theater in downtown Klamath Falls is another Art Deco beauty and chief attraction in Southern Oregon. In Gold Beach, it’s the Ellensburg Theatre in the historic Rogue Playhouse that entertains guests.
In lovely Coos Bay, the Dolphin Playhouse breathes theatrics into the town on the coast. The theater hosts plays and workshops for aspiring performers. Also in town, the Egyptian Theater, built in 1925, is a place to see films and orchestras in a Egyptian Revival style building.
Southern Oregon’s rich history dates back to almost 15,000 years ago with the first evidence of human activity in the region. In the 1840s, the European-settlers arrived en masse with dreams of independent lives, living off this bountiful land. Today, visitors and residents can learn about the histories of Indigenous peoples and settlers, as their stories are told in cultural institutions, museums and through spoken word.
The Douglas County Museum in Roseburg has artifacts showcasing the town’s history of farming, fishing, mining and timber. Exhibitions of natural history can also be found here, and replicas of storefronts from earlier days express the character of the region.
The Southern Oregon Historical Society is making waves to restore the J.C. Penney building in Medford into an event space and new historical museum. On its website, you can currently explore collections of thousands of artifacts, art and exhibits that represent the heart of Southern Oregon.
The Fort Klamath Museum sits on the eight-acre grounds of a military outpost 35 miles north of Klamath Falls. Hear the sounds
of the train in the distance as the railroad built in the early 1900s passes from Eugene to Klamath Falls. In Klamath Falls, the Favell Museum features more than 100,000 artifacts from Indigenous tribes, and Western contemporary art, revealing an overwhelming amount of culture in the region.
Book a stay up the I-5 interstate at the historic Wolf Creek Inn, a true testimony of heritage to those who traveled on the Applegate Trail, or travel northeast to Crater Lake Lodge, which overlooks the deepest lake in the United States and is located within Oregon’s only national park. Nearby, the Fort Rock Homestead Village Museum is ongoing with hopes for new buildings to be added in the future. This outdoor museum features buildings from the past such as a church, a school and homes that are a time capsule into a unique period in history.
Breathe in the fresh, ocean air on Oregon’s southern coastline. Visitors can go to the Coos Bay History Museum and see the everchanging exhibits. The museum’s collection has more than 50,000 items and artifacts, and 250,000 images that provide insight into cultural and maritime history of the region.
Fort Rock Homestead Village Museum PHOTO
Creativity pulses through the land of Southern Oregon. On the campus of Southern Oregon University in Ashland, the Schneider Museum of Art opened in 1986 and continues to showcase fine visual arts in a changing exhibit format. Exhibits serve as a vital force in the intellectual life of the college and city, and have included fine and contemporary art.
Also in town, the Ashland Independent Film Festival is a five-day event in the spring led by the community and driven by the artistic films and their creators.
In the fall, the Klamath Independent Film Festival held in Klamath Falls’ beloved Ross Ragland Theater, focuses solely on presenting independent films from Oregon. As far as art goes, Klamath Falls continues to amaze with the Favell Museum and its collection of 100,000 artifacts that depict the lives of Indigenous tribes.
In Medford, the Southern Oregon Historical Society has a history center in the town’s former J.C. Penney building. They plan to create a museum within the Historical Society to feature the enormous collection of artifacts gathered over the years. Nearby, the Britt Festival, Southern Oregon’s premier outdoor music and arts festival, happens annually in Jacksonville. It takes place on the grounds of the former home of Peter Britt a pioneering Jacksonville photographer and horticulturist. The site offers rolling views of the Rogue Valley. In Roseburg, Umpqua Valley Arts is located in a historical veteran’s hospital and now serves as the proud display for art in town. North of Cave Junction, the small town of Kerby hosts The Guild Gallery & Art Center. This gallery features various mediums of art including glasswork, ceramics, jewelry and more.
Grants Pass Museum of Art is a hub of local and international art, according to Executive Director Hyla Lipson. This year, the calendar is filled with world-class exhibits, classes and workshops, live music and more.
“We like to shake it up,” Lipson said. The museum is getting the reputation of being more like something found in Chicago than Grants Pass, she said.
The museum’s location alone draws interest. The building was established in 1905 and used as a private residence. Now, in addition to the museum upstairs, visitors will find a gift shop and gallery with more than sixty local artists sharing their work downstairs. Next door is a local footwear retailer, Shoefly Oregon.
Lipson recommends checking out the current exhibit or events like “Sunday Afternoon in the Museum with Artists” or “Music at the Museum” before dining at one of the twelve restaurants in the two-block area of the museum. Or, sign the kids up for a two-hour summer class, which includes supplies for only $15. There’s something for everyone happening at the Grants Pass Museum of Art.
Visit gpmuseum.com for an up-to-date listing of exhibits.
The expansive landscape of rich forests, winding rivers and bountiful farms in Southern Oregon have led to the fresh flavors found in the area. The region abounds with innovative culinary experiences and exquisite wines unlike any others. Here, discover the creative soul of Southern Oregon through a roadmap of outstanding restaurants and their chefs, plus wineries seated above endless views.
Before the farm-to-table movement made waves, Southern Oregon’s culinary scene laid its foundation in the rich ecosystem and abundant land. Here, established farms and creative chefs made their mark and set down a welcome mat for residents and visitors to enjoy cuisine made with local ingredients.
It’s nearly impossible to find a restaurant here that isn’t using local meats, cheeses or produce to create their one-of-a-kind menus. Don’t look far to discover fresh crab from the sea, fruits and vegetables cultivated in the region and organic meat from ranches just miles away. These fisheries, orchards and farms deliver an explosion of flavors and food you can trust to your breakfast, lunch and dinner plate.
River Blue, made by Rogue Creamery in Central Point, Oregon, was titled the best cheese in the world at the 2019 World Cheese Awards.
Southern Oregon’s diverse culinary options dot the region in a range of casual burger joints to extravagant plates served on white tablecloths. Eat sushi made from locally sourced fish at Tokyo Bistro in Coos Bay. Decant in Medford brings excellence in their sustainable and locally derived rotating seasonal menus. Gogi’s Restaurant in Jacksonville prides their menu on international cuisine made with local ingredients. Hither in Ashland is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, and sources fresh ingredients from local, organic farms. Larks Home Kitchen Cuisine offers farm-to-table cuisine in Ashland Springs Hotel. For an experience packed with live music, wine and food, try Dunbar Farms in Medford. With so many options to choose from, it may be best to book the Ashland Walking Food Tour with The Hungry Hustle and discover tried and true eateries within walking distance of each other.
Alchemy in Ashland offers a moody ambiance and a dynamic menu of artisan bites. Osteria La Briccola in Ashland wows diners with a menu of Northern Italian cuisine. The elegance of simplicity is the mission of the Italian restaurant Pomodori Osteria in Medford.
Also in town, grab a hearty steak at Porters. In Jacksonville, Bella Union holds the lively Italian tavern. Nearby, the Jacksonville Inn Restaurant is a town favorite, boasting a grand collection of wine and a gourmet menu.
When looking for an IPA or a stout in Medford, the search isn’t hard. Try BricktownE Brewing Company, Opposition Brewing, Walkabout Brewing or Common Block Brewing all within two miles of each other. If it’s quality cider you want, GoldRush Cider in Medford or Bandon Rain at the beach are a good place to start. Bar Juillet in Ashland has an extensive wine list and menu to pair with. Backside Brewing Co. and Two-Shy Brewing in Roseburg are the hubs for great brews. The charming Lookingglass Brewery in Winston has been brewing craft beer since 2015. A well-loved Southern Oregon favorite, Wild River Brewing has three locations in the Rogue Valley. In Ashland, try Caldera Brewing Company or Skout Taphouse, which features beer and ciders made all over the Pacific Northwest. For artisan spirits, Immortal Spirits in Medford has a good reputation in the area Finally, the 5 O’Clock Somewhere Bar & Grill at the Compass hotel in Medford offers bar bites and specialty cocktails.
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.
Southern Oregon is home to more than seventy different grape varieties, making the wine not only delicious but abundant. With each region offering a specialty climate for cultivating distinct grape varieties, Southern Oregon still remains relatively undiscovered. This means a leisurely wine tasting getaway won’t be interrupted by crowds, and sitting back with a glass of cabernet and a gourmet meal is just a roadtrip away.
With wine as the pinnacle of Southern Oregon’s libation scene, don’t forget about the superlative culinary options to pair with a glass at an acclaimed vineyard. Red Lily Vineyards in Jacksonville has a tapas menu to pair with your desired glass. In Grants Pass, Schmidt Family Vineyards has a multitude of pizzas to share over a delicious cabernet. Belle Fiore Winery in Medford boasts extravagance in their seasonal wine pairing menu and the grand estate.
When looking to learn more about viticulture, tours all over the region like Rogue Valley Wine Tours and Wine Hopper Tours lead the way to the history, culture and truly delicious wine. For a more personalized experience, book a wine tour with Bravo Outings . This company has a custom wine tour that takes you on a trip around Jacksonville through sip and savor. Swing from the Vines shuttles private events and their own pub and winery tours around Douglas County. For adventure enthusiasts, Via Bike Tours offers a tour of the Southern Oregon wine country.
The premier region for unforgettable events awaits. With sweeping views offering a picturesque scene of valleys that dip into rivers and streams, and rows of boundless grapevines, book a fairytale wedding or celebration on the private grounds of these estates. Rellik Winery in Jacksonville regularly offers live concerts and views of their family of alpacas strolling the vineyard. Delfino Vineyards hosts an annual summer concert series in Roseburg and DANCIN Vineyards in Medford hosts a similar series. In Ashland, it’s Grizzly Peak Winery that pairs delicious wine with musical events. RoxyAnn Winery offers wine and music series and family nights on the Hillcrest Orchard Estate.
PHOTOCome see us for a tasting of our hand-crafte d wines and artisan cheese s.
Linger awhile, take a walk in the estate vineyard, and experience all that is Wooldridge Creek.
Open Daily
In one of the four corners surrounding the Umpqua AVA, you will find either the Oregon Coast Range to the west, the Cascades to the east, the Willamette Valley to the north and the Rogue Valley to the south. Within the Umpqua Valley AVA, find Elkton and Red Hill Douglas County, the two sub-appellations in the region. The wineries found around here are usually family-owned and operated, creating a sense of community and personal connection with each visit among the splendid views.
Roseburg is the metro hub of the Umpqua Valley. Through town, the Umpqua River winds past mountains, spills over towering waterfalls and below covered bridges until flowing into the Pacific Ocean. Umpqua territory is drier and warmer than the wine territories to the north, and cooler than the Rogue and Applegate wine regions to the south. This uncommon location allows for the region to be the host of three distinct climatic sub-zones. In turn, these zones are a hotspot for growing different varieties of grapes. The northern area around the town of Elkton is influenced by the relatively close proximity of the ocean, making it a cooler region than the surrounding sub-climates. 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. The Umpqua Valley AVA has a series of valleys and hills with latitudes and elevations not unlike some well-known grape growing districts in Europe.
The first grapevines in the region were planted here in the 1880s by German immigrants. In 1961, Oregon’s oldest estate winery, HillCrest Vineyard in Roseburg, was founded and the first Oregon pinot noir was created here. The Umpqua Valley AVA is also Oregon’s oldest viticulture region; trust that with every sip here, there’s a little bit of history.
Knowing the network of climates in the region, it comes as no surprise that the Umpqua AVA is host to more than forty different varieties of wine. The cooler climates boast grapes such as pinot noir, pinot gris and riesling which thrive amongst the lower temperatures and frequent precipitation in Elkton as opposed to other regions. In the warmer valleys, find outstanding syrah, tempranillo and cabernet sauvignon, which flourish under the sun. This area can also be host to Rhône-style wines such as viognier and grenache. Discover other wines that thrive in this area such as merlot, zinfandel, baco noir, cabernet franc and gewürztraminer.
HillCrest Vineyard Melrose Vineyards PHOTO TOP JONI KABANA, BOTTOM AARON MARINEAU
The Elkton AVA, a sub-appellation of the Umpqua AVA, may be newer to the viticulture scene in Southern Oregon, but it is having no trouble keeping up. The oceanic influence of the climate, misty mountain hills and more frequent precipitation in comparison to surrounding areas in the Umpqua AVA, are the perfect recipe for grapes that love the cooler climate.
Situated 40 miles from the Pacific coastline, the Elkton AVA is settled in the thickest marine layer of Southern Oregon. This blankets the vineyards in a cool, moist and foggy atmosphere, where the region experiences an average of fifty inches of rainfall a year.
The Elkton AVA was officially recognized in 2013, but this region’s love for wine goes back to the 1970s with the production of pinot noir. Despite the late recognition of the Elkton AVA, the first winery in this area, Brandborg Vineyard and Winery, was founded in 2002.
Grapes that flourish in cool-weather climates are the ones that prosper in Elkton. These include pinot noir, pinot gris, gewürztraminer, baco noir and riesling.
The home to culture and the greatest concentration of wineries in Southern Oregon, the Rogue Valley AVA is nestled within three pillar cities—Medford, Ashland and Grants Pass. This is one of the ultimate destinations for wine connoisseurs and enthusiasts because the diverse climate offers opportunities for growing a wide variety of grapes and an extensive map of wineries to experience.
The Rogue Valley rolls through the Klamath, Coastal and Cascade mountain ranges that meet to create layers of different elevations, allowing possibilities for a multitude of wine grapes to grow. Vineyards can be found along the dramatic drops in elevation between 1,200 to 2,000 feet on the rugged hillsides. Here, rich merlot and malbec saturate the green valleys and sweeping hills.
The Rogue Valley is warm and dry in climate, similar to France’s Bordeaux region.
This region’s journey with wine began in the 1840s when European immigrants began planting grapes and bottling wines. The Rogue Valley is home to the memory of Oregon’s first official winery, Valley View, created by the early settler, Peter Britt. Although this winery closed in 1907, the fruitful land still attracted viticulturists such as a professor from Oregon State University who planted an experimental vineyard in 1968. The Rogue Valley AVA became an official appellation in 1991.
The warm and dry climate of the Rogue Valley—similar to Bordeaux, France—supports cabernet sauvignon, merlot, cabernet franc, malbec, tempranillo, syrah and sauvignon blanc. The west end of the valley sports a cooler climate, in turn, allowing varietals such as pinot noir, chardonnay, riesling, muscat, gewürztraminer, dolcetto, grenache and zinfandel.
The Rogue Valley has a rich history of agriculture starting with pear orchards and now a wide array of vegetables and fruits throughout a yearly long-season. Lettuces, squashes, fruit trees, berries, micro greens and peppers are a few things that can be found locally.
A trip to the Rogue Valley Growers and Crafters Market, located in Medford and Ashland, offers a gateway to the region’s outstanding farms and innovative culinary options. Jaimie Griffin, executive director of the farmers market, recommends visitors talk to vendors to learn more about agritourism options they may offer, such as farm tours, farm stands and tasting rooms. “We always encourage people to talk to our farming vendors about what they provide on-site at their farms, said Griffin. “That just offers another level to see what the Rogue Valley offers agriculturally.“
The farmers market is also one of the best opportunities to support local farmers and creators in the community. The fresh produce, artisan foods and handcrafted gifts at the market have been made, grown and sourced locally. While shopping for produce, grab breakfast or lunch from food trucks with food sourced directly from the market. To find out more about the location of the market each season, head to rvgrowersmarket.com.
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Extending north from the California and Oregon border, the Applegate Valley is defined by the joining of the Applegate and Rogue rivers west of Grants Pass. Highway 238 parallels the crystal waters of the Applegate River, revealing a steep and scenic valley adorned with lovely vineyards and superb wine.
The Applegate Valley produces warm-climate varieties due to the hot days and cool nights of the dry growing season. The Siskiyou Mountains nearby protect the valley from coastal winds, creating the pleasant temperatures and moderate climate that first attracted early pioneers to this region. The valley is now known for its landscape which is home to both endless views and talented winemakers alike.
In 1852, Southern Oregon’s famed horticulturist and photographer—as well as the namesake of the Britt Festival—Peter Britt, began planting grapes on his property in Jacksonville. This led to the opening of Oregon’s first official winery, Valley View, which later closed in 1907. However, Britt’s legacy lived on when 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.
To name a few, varieties that appreciate the Applegate Valley’s climate include chardonnay, tempranillo, syrah, pinot noir, merlot, riesling and many more.
Troon Vineyard
PHOTO FACING PAGE JAK WONDERLY THIS PAGE TOP JESSE BRONS BOTTOM FINE WINE STOCK / ALAMY STOCK PHOTO
A sub-region of the Rogue Valley AVA, the Illinois Valley AVA gets its name from the river that follows a path through the deep forests of the Siskiyou Mountains to the south. To the west, via Highway 199 from I-5 to Highway 101, breezes from the Oregon Coast Range spill into the valley from the Pacific Ocean. The rural setting is the perfect place to explore the outdoors and find incredible wine along the way.
At the heart of the charming Illinois Valley, the town of Cave Junction is known as the gateway to one of Oregon’s greatest treasures: the Oregon Caves National Monument. This monument is one of the world’s few marble cave formations. As the fresh wind surges from the coast beyond the Siskiyou
Mountains, the valley is an ideal location for growing cool-weather varieties.
Winemaking in the Illinois Valley began in the 1970s with one of Oregon’s oldest wineries, Foris Vineyards. Then, viticulture started making waves in the area in the 1980s with Bridgeview Vineyards where European grape-growing strategies are practiced. Now, you can stay overnight in the newly established vacation rental right on the vineyard property.
Burgundian varietals such as pinot noir, chardonnay and pinot blanc thrive in the Illinois Valley.
The Illinois Valley is home to Bridgeview Vineyards, with grapes planted in the 1980s.
Southern Oregon has an expansive collection of scenic overlook options for incredible lodging experiences. Choose to indulge in a view of a desert, a dense forest, an abundant winery, a farm, the ocean, a winding river or a vibrant city downtown. Find the right stay for you and pick from homey bed and breakfasts, secluded resorts or relaxing spas. Plan your trip long enough to experience more than one destination or overnight retreat around the region.
Perched above Oregon’s only national park—and the deepest lake in the United States—the Crater Lake Lodge is unforgettable to all who visit. From May to October, overnight stays are offered at the historic lodge that opened in 1915 and has since been restored to its original rustic charm. Make reservations early to experience a stay high above the blue lake.
Built in 1861, the Jacksonville Inn is one of Oregon’s oldest hotels. Although newly renovated and remodeled, the boutique inn still serves as a 19th-century time capsule with hints of Victorian era furnishings and rooms featuring exposed brick from the 1800s.
The cozy Prospect Historic Hotel is a bed and breakfast in the forest surrounding the Upper Rogue River. This establishment was built in 1889 to accommodate travelers going to Crater Lake, and still serves
guests meals and comfortable lodging in the peaceful woods by the river. The Bell Sister Flats in Roseburg is located in a former dress and hat shop in the heart of the charming town.
A prominent building in downtown Ashland, the Ashland Springs Hotel is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and has been a beloved landmark to the town since it opened in 1925. Since then, the towering hotel has been completely restored with the finishing touches of luxury and taste. Also in Ashland, The Peerless Hotel is a perfect boutique stay for a historic and inviting feel.
Spread over four acres of exquisite gardens, the Lithia Springs Resort and the Waterstone Spa are where guests go to escape the hustle and bustle. Experience healing waters from a mineral hot spring while relaxing in a private soaking tub.
PHOTO TOP JOHN VALLS Crater Lake LodgeA trip to Central Point takes travelers to the Hummingbird Estate which is an English-style cottage located on a beautiful vineyard complete with a tasting room to sample delicious wines and bites. The C.H. Bailey House in Roseburg exudes serenity from the elegant gardens. In Ashland, find these endearing inns dotting the streets of downtown: Oak Street Station, the Coolidge House and Ashland Creek Inn. These cozy spots are just a walk away from
popular restaurants and the theater. For a vintage vibe, stay at the P.A.L.M. Motel, offering private cabanas, a pool and cottage-style rooms. The boutique Country Willows Inn & Estate in Ashland features unmatched scenery, a heated pool and darling suites, cottages and rooms.
For an adventure with a rustic, outdoorsy ambiance, book a stay at one of Southern Oregon’s many ranches. The Lonesome Duck Ranch offers fishing on the Williamson River just outside one of the peaceful cottages. In Klamath Falls, Running Y Ranch has a luxurious lodge and vacation rentals depending on what you’re looking for in a resort stay. The list of resort amenities includes miles of hiking and
biking trails, ice skating, spa services and preferred tee times at the golf course. At Willow-Witt Ranch in Ashland, discover agritourism and farm stays for a rewarding experience. Choose to camp or book a room, and wake up surrounded by the serenity of forests and meadows, and well-mannered farm animals.
The stunning Tu Tu’ Tun Lodge rests on the banks of the winding Rogue River, miles before it spills into the ocean. Along the Rogue, the Morrisons Rogue Wilderness Lodge offers riverside lodging with outdoor adventures. Staying on the Rogue River, the River House is a cabin adjacent to the Weasku Inn and is best for family reunions and larger retreats. For a romantic getaway, the Steamboat Inn has cabins and suites tucked away in wilderness near the Umpqua River. What originally began as a bingo hall, Seven Feathers Resort is now a hotel and casino run by the Cow Creek Band of the Umpqua Tribe of Indians. Located near Roseburg along the South Umpqua River, the entrance to this resort features a thirty-three-foot bronze bald eagle called Skookum Hyak. For an oceanside retreat, visit Bay Point Landing in Coos Bay en route to Cape Arago.
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, inner-tubing 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.
Bay Point Landing is a modern camping destination surrounded by the beauty of Oregon’s wildest coast. Whether seeking tranquility or a base for adventure, our curated amenities and accommodations are carefully chosen for you to hurry up and slow down. Book your stay today.
Southern Oregon is an expansive and diverse place. We want you navigate this special place like we do and feel like a local here. 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 for all of the insider knowledge you might need to love this place like we do.
Thanks for being in Southern Oregon. We hope that by being here, you recognize the breathtaking beauty of the landscape and connect with the strong communities of people in the region and see why it’s so important to protect these places 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.
Do your research, prep for the trip by learning current guidelines and local recommendations, 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. Keep your group small to minimize impact, keep some cash on you for parking fees, and always check the weather forecast before heading out!
Be conscious of the land and the people you share it with. Read and follow the posted signs, stay on the trail at all times and take your own ability level into consideration before adventuring out. Leave no trace by packing out everything you packed in, including trash. Respect your surroundings to ensure safety and fun for everyone.
Gain a sense of gratitude by taking 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.
Follow these tips to experience Southern Oregon like a local.
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 more than 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 the Travel Southern Oregon website Visitor Resource pages for real-time air quality and smoke information.
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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.
Ride through lush forest along a crystal clear river or up to the next winery on your list: bikes are a great way to get where you need to go. 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 other areas.
Rogue Valley International Medford Airport (MFR) is the main airport in Southern Oregon and connects to twelve major cities across the Pacific Northwest and the Southwest United States. The Southwest Oregon Regional Airport in North Bend 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 such as Portland.
Several bus options are available for visitors both in-state and 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 eighteen 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.
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)
Klamath Falls
4 hr 27 (268 mi) 6 hr 8 (398 mi) 6 hr 41 (407 mi)
4 hr 34 (278 mi) 5 hr 33 (355 mi) 6 hr 51 (417 mi)
“A perfect wine country experience.” ~ Hilarie Larson
“One of the most innovative producers…in Southern Oregon.” ~ Forbes