If magic exists, it surely is found in the spectacular Rogue River hiking trial in southern Oregon. Hikers from all over the world come to experience this protected trail…and yet you will rarely see another group of hikers on the trail…the real magic. This moderately difficult trail hike is unique because over the course of the four-day experience, you can stay each night in riverside lodges. Rooms are double occupancy; with hot showers and real beds. Excellent family-style dining is the hallmark of each of the lodges.
Hiring through a designated Rogue River vendor offers an alternative view of the wild and scenic Rogue River Canyon; Guided trekking along the Rogue River trail. You get the best of both worlds: hikes through one of the best river canyons in the country and the comfort of wilderness lodges every night. The outfitter packs your heavy gear onto a river raft, provides a wonderful riverside lunch each day, and a trail guide to ensure the safety of the group. All you need is your backpack, camera, and water bottle.
The Rogue Canyon Trail offers an excellent scenic experience as the trial winds through “enchanted woods,” open meadows of wildflowers, and spectacular overlooks along rocky bluffs. Black bear, osprey, bald eagle, and deer can be seen throughout the canyon. The Wild and Scenic Section of the Rogue was one of the first river canyons under the protection of the National Wild and Scenic Rivers Act. Therefore, today, there are limits on the number of visitors that can travel through the canyon each day, thus protecting this natural treasure of Oregon.
The trail is well maintained and in good condition during the spring and early summer months. Trail elevation is less than 1,000 feet. Grades are generally mild. On the first and last days of the 4-day trek, you will encounter steeper areas with a series of switchbacks. During the middle of the hike much of the trail is level or nearly level. A small part of the trail is cut into rocky cliffs with exposed drop offs. The trail follows the river, sometimes close to the river, other times further up the canyon. The average distance walked each day is 10 miles with the second day being the longest hike at about 15 miles. The daily distance is a moderate walk for a person in good physical condition, it allows a reasonable time during the day to observe the surroundings, photograph the incredible scenery and enjoy a leisurely lunch by the river.
Your historic hiking trip begins at Grave Creek…the beginning of the wild and scenic section of the famous Rogue River. The first five miles of the trail are pretty rocky…so wear appropriate hiking boots. You will end the first day at Black Bar Lodge…almost a 10 mile hike.
The second day you will see magnificent views of the rapids of the river and you will come across several historical sites. Near the end of this day’s 15-mile hike, you’ll find the beautiful Rogue River Ranch. Visitors can wander the ranch’s well-maintained grounds and look inside its museum (note that in the summer of 2007 the ranch was closed but is expected to reopen in 2008). Just over a mile from the ranch is Marial Lodge, where you’ll rest and relax for the night.
Day three gives you more spectacular views of the river…with a famous view of Mule Creek Canyon and the beautiful Stair Creek Falls. Experience it all on this day with a nice walk through the “enchanted forest” and even try the Tate Creek slide. You will hike about 8.5 miles on this day and end your trip at Clay Hill Lodge surrounded by beautiful views of Tacoma’s “calm waters.”
Your fourth day of hiking is short but includes the steepest part of the trial with many switchbacks. Wear long pants to protect yourself from the poison oak that is prevalent along the edge of the trial. You’ll arrive at your early afternoon grab-and-go location (Foster Bar) and, if traveling with a Rogue River outfitter, enjoy a scenic 2.5-hour drive back to your waiting vehicle at Galice Resort.
Tips: If you don’t have trail boots, it’s a good idea to keep the following specs in mind: Buy your boots well in advance of the trip. Use them as much as possible to get them used. Good ankle support is important. A helpful trick to ensure foot comfort is to carry a spare pair of socks in your backpack. Clothing should be loose fitting and allow full movement.
