The Rogue River National Recreation Trail from Grave Creek to Foster Bar is in the heart of the National Wild and Scenic Rogue River Canyon. Multiple day hikes in this pristine environment are adventures in solitude, adding a new perspective of the beauty of the river corridor. Viewed from ridges, the river appears as a sparkling ribbon of diamonds as it relentlessly winds its way toward the ocean. In addition to the magnificent scenery and plentiful wildlife of the river corridor, the rich hillsides of the Rogue are alive with wild flowers. The Rogue River Trail winds through over 40 miles of pristine old growth forest, meadows filled with wildflowers, and breathtaking waterfalls. Just one of several spectacular trails that meander through the Wild & Scenic Rogue River corridor, there is no reservation necessary to access this magical part of the world.
If you’re planning a do-it-yourself hiking trip, we recommend ample preparation to ensure a fabulous experience. Make sure you get the Rogue River Trail map and plan to be unplugged for the duration of your trip. There is no cell coverage on this stretch of the Rogue River, but the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) has developed georeferenced maps that are downloadable and compatible with any smartphone.
Rogue River Hiking Trail Map
Purchase Your Own Rogue River Hiking Trail Map
Rogue River Trail Hiking Maps are available from our office. Waterproof, 28″ x 10″ full size.
Order your map today! Call 1-800-336-1647 for more information.
HISTORY OF THE TRAIL
The Rogue River and Rogue River National Recreation Trail both have a long, rich history, just waiting to be discovered.
Located in Southern Oregon, the Rogue River begins in the Cascade Range’s Rogue-Umpqua Divide Wilderness at Boundary Springs, and flows for 215 miles before emptying into the Pacific Ocean.
When trappers and fur traders first settled in the Rogue River Valley, they named the area “River of the Rogues”. Gold was then discovered on the Rogue River in 1851, and thousands of additional settlers arrived in the region seeking their fortune. They panned over $70 million in gold from the river. Later, attracted by its mild climate and long growing season, settlers farmed the valley.
During the gold rush over 100 years ago, pack mules trotted across rugged paths to bring supplies to miners who sought gold in Southern Oregon. Today, those trails are known as the Rogue River National Recreational Trail.
Stretching over 40 miles from Grave Creek to Foster Bar, the trail features a waterfall, is accessible year-round and offers adventurers a variety of recreational activities. While traveling the trail, hikers will enjoy a peaceful, solitary experience, surrounded by the beauty of the river corridor.
When you visit the Rogue River National Recreation Trail, you can hike the same paths traveled by Chinook and Takelma Indians, American settlers and miners. Carved into the cliffs and sweeping down along the river, this natural beauty in the heart of Southern Oregon creates the ultimate backdrop for all your outdoor recreation.
With its towering cliffs, incredible views and natural canyons, the Rogue River National Recreation Trail has inspired authors and poets such as Zane Grey, Alfred Powers and Joaquin Miller. What will you create when you experience one of the greatest historical trails in the United States?
In addition to the scenery — unmatched in its beauty — and plentiful wildlife, wildflowers also blanket the hillsides. You can fill your camera roll with a rainbow of flowers, the shimmer of untouched river water, and local animals in their natural habitat.
It is recommended that travelers hike the Rogue River National Recreation Trail during the spring and fall, as it is usually too warm during the summer months.
For the past 20 years, Morrisons has offered a variety of ways to experience the Rogue River National Recreation Trail, including a 4-day raft-supported hiking trip. Whether you want to camp beneath the stars or relax in one of our cabins, we have an experience that will fit your style of adventure.
If you are interested in hiking the trail, book one of Morrisons’ guided trips.
Here are some commonly asked questions:
What is the difficulty of the trail?
The trail was built for pack mules or miners who had to push a wheelbarrow down the trail.The Rogue River trail is a moderate hike. Elevation gains and drops are about 1000 feet a day. The typical day of hiking varies from a flat trail to climbing uphill and then going downhill. The trail follows the river and sometimes leaves the river and goes deep in the forest to later meet up again at the river.
What are the hazards on the trail?
Most common are poison oak and ticks. We, of course, have bears and rattlesnakes too. However, bears and snakes are rare, but poison oak and ticks are not. If you are scared of heights, there are a few spots on the trail that do have a significant drop to the river. We encourage you to use caution when passing these areas.
What happens if you need to go to the bathroom?
On the Wild and Scenic Section, the lodges have bathrooms for guests, and some campsites have outhouses. You can choose to rent our riverside toilet system, but these are not meant for you to carry with you. We recommend you carry WAG bags (or GO-anywhere toilet kits), for those emergency situations. They are sanitary, safe, environmentally-friendly, and come complete with toilet paper and hand sanitizer.
What do we wear?
Dressing safely and comfortably (not to mention fashionable) for river trips is a challenging task. It is very important and should not be taken lightly. For much of the season, you will need two sets of clothing: one for on the river and one for camp or lodge. There are areas of no shade on the river. Sun protection is always a priority.
What do we bring?
For a comprehensive list, see our Itinerary and Gear List page.
Where do I stay?
Morrisons Lodge is our preferred lodging location in our area for convenient orientation and launching of your trip. Nearby campgrounds, such as Indian Mary, Griffin Park, and Almeda Park all take reservations. For reservations call 1-800-452-5687 or visit CampLife.com/
What about my vehicle?
We are offer several shuttling services, whether you and your gear need transportation back to your vehicle, or you would like your vehicle safely stored and delivered to your final destination.