Rogue Valley
The Rogue Valley is well-loved for many reasons. For its “Wild and Scenic” Rogue River that runs from Crater Lake to the Pacific.
For Ashland’s Oregon Shakespeare Festival and Pacific Crest Trail and skiing on Mount Ashland. For the rising wine country of the Applegate, Illinois, and Rogue Valleys. For Medford’s revitalized downtown and amazing sports facilities and orchards. For Jacksonville’s historic old town and Britt Festivals. For the jetboats and rafting in Grants Pass where everybody knows “It’s the Climate!” – Do Something Great in the Rogue Valley.
Rogue Valley Cities
Ashland
Ashland is a cultural hot spot, with award-winning galleries, theaters and restaurants Nestled at the base of the Siskiyou and Cascade mountain ranges, Ashland has a reputation for great outdoor recreation in the city limits and beyond. And with the famous Mt. Ashland Ski Area nearby, fun stays in Ashland year-round.
Medford
Here, you can have the ultimate urban adventure with theaters, brewpubs, wineries and artisan cuisine; or you can experience the great outdoors with the Rogue River and Table Rocks just a stone’s throw away. A diverse culture of creativity grows in Medford, and it’s hard not to like it.
Jacksonville
Welcome to a historic Gold Rush town now known for a thriving cultural and epicurean scene. Jacksonville is home to the summer-long Britt Music & Arts Festival, an incredible selection of independently owned shops and eateries, celebrated winemakers and accessible hiking and biking opportunities.
Grants Pass
Oregon’s whitewater rafting capital and known for an iconic “It’s the Climate” slogan, Grants Pass is one colorful county seat. The powerful Rogue River might steal your attention here, but so will the endless options for high-quality food and drink, shopping, history, outdoor recreation and exploration.
Central Point
Central Point is a vibrant town in the heart of Southern Oregon, offering a perfect blend of small-town charm and exciting attractions. Home to the famous Rogue Creamery and Lillie Belle Farms, it’s a hub for food lovers, while outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy easy access to the nearby Rogue River and scenic parks. Central Point also hosts the annual Jackson County Fair, drawing visitors from across the region.
Eagle Point
Eagle Point is known for its rich history and scenic beauty. Visitors can explore the historic Butte Creek Mill, play a round of golf at the award-winning Eagle Point Golf Club, or enjoy the natural beauty of nearby lakes and trails, making it a great destination for both history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts.
Rogue River
Set along the banks of its namesake river, Rogue River offers an abundant opportunities for outdoor adventure. From rafting and fishing to exploring nearby hiking trails, Rogue River is a perfect destination for nature lovers looking to experience the beauty of Southern Oregon.
Applegate
Applegate, Oregon, nestled in the scenic Applegate Valley, offers visitors a blend of outdoor adventure and wine country charm. Known for its lush vineyards, serene hiking trails, and proximity to the Applegate River, this small community is a hidden gem for those seeking a peaceful retreat in Southern Oregon’s natural beauty.
Applegate Valley
Meander through the scenic drive connecting Historic Jacksonville and Grants Pass while you relax and take in the beauty of the farmland around you. Hikers will appreciate the number of trails open to them and could even stumble upon the world’s only Bigfoot Trap.
Merlin
Merlin serves as a gateway to adventure in Southern Oregon, offering easy access to the Rogue River for world-class fishing, rafting, and kayaking. Surrounded by stunning landscapes, this charming town is a hub for outdoor enthusiasts and home to the Pottsville Museum, a museum filled with thousands of items commemorating Oregon’s past from its legislative halls to the local logging woods.
Phoenix
Phoenix is a vibrant community celebrated for its welcoming atmosphere and thriving food and wine scene. Nestled between the Medford and Ashland, it boasts a variety of local eateries, wineries, and farm-to-table options that showcase the region’s culinary delights. With charming parks and outdoor activities nearby, Phoenix is an ideal stop for those looking to savor the flavors of Southern Oregon.
Prospect
Renowned for its stunning natural landscapes and outdoor adventures, in Prospect visitors can explore the breathtaking Crater Lake National Park, Avenue of the Boulders, Pearsony Falls, hike scenic trails, discover the enchanting natural beauty of the Rogue River and more.
Ruch
Ruch, Oregon is a charming, small town nestled in the scenic Applegate Valley, known for its beautiful vineyards, organic farms, and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re wine tasting, hiking nearby trails, or exploring historic landmarks, Ruch offers a peaceful retreat surrounded by Southern Oregon’s natural beauty.
Shady Cove
Shady Cove is a charming riverside community that serves as a gateway to outdoor adventure on the Rogue River. Visitors can try their hand in fishing, kayaking, rafting, and scenic hikes, while the quaint area boasts local shops and eateries, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
Talent
Talent is a lively community known for its artistic spirit and beautiful surroundings. Visitors can explore local galleries, enjoy the charming downtown area filled with unique shops, restaurants and nearby wineries.
Union Creek
Nestled along the Rogue River, Union Creek is known for its stunning natural landscapes like the picturesque Rogue River Gorge and Falls and Natural Birdge, along with it’s camping and outdoor adventure opportunities.
White City
White City serves as a vibrant gateway community to outdoor adventure in Southern Oregon. Visitors can explore the Upper and Lower Table Rock hikes, offering breathtaking views and diverse landscapes, as well as enjoy a variety of nearby activities like fishing and white-water rafting on the stunning Upper Rogue River and a growing local food and wine scene.
Visit the Rogue Valley
Embark on a journey to the Rogue Valley in Southern Oregon, a region renowned for its scenic beauty, rich cultural tapestry, and abundance of outdoor activities. Nestled between the towering peaks of the Cascade and Siskiyou mountains, the Rogue Valley offers a diverse landscape that ranges from lush forests and rolling vineyards to historic towns and vibrant cities.
A Vinicultural Paradise
The Rogue Valley’s climate, characterized by warm days and cool nights, creates the perfect conditions for vineyards to flourish. This region is celebrated for its diverse selection of wines, including robust Merlots, delicate Pinot Noirs, and crisp Chardonnays. Wine enthusiasts can embark on a tasting journey through the valley’s numerous wineries and vineyards, each offering a unique glimpse into the area’s viniculture and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Outdoor Adventures Galore
For the outdoor adventurer, the Rogue Valley does not disappoint. The Rogue River, one of the most famous rivers in the United States for whitewater rafting and fishing, offers exhilarating rapids and serene stretches ideal for catching salmon and steelhead. Hiking enthusiasts will find paradise in the surrounding mountains, with trails leading through old-growth forests to stunning vistas and hidden waterfalls, such as the famous Crater Lake National Park, just a stone’s throw away.
Cultural Riches and Historical Wonders
The Rogue Valley is steeped in history and culture, from the Native American tribes who first inhabited the land to the gold rush era that shaped many of its towns. Ashland’s Oregon Shakespeare Festival celebrates the arts with world-class theater performances, while Jacksonville, a preserved gold rush town, offers a glimpse into the past with its historic buildings and charming boutiques.
Getting There
North - South
Situated on the California – Oregon border, the Rogue Valley rests along the I5 corridor – roughly a 5-hour drive from Portland. As the southern transportation hub for the state, Highway 140 and 199 allow for convenient travel East and West respectfully.
East - West
Traveling from the East, Highway 140 connects Klamath Falls to Medford through a scenic mountain pass. This quick 1.5-hour journey crosses the Pacific Crest Trail and provides access to numerous lakes.
Traveling from the West, Highway 199 connects the coast to the Rogue Valley. This 3-hour, 125-mile route crosses through the Illinois Valley.
