The Rogue River in southwest Oregon originates from a mountainside spring next to Crater Lake in the Cascade Mountains. It flows just 215 miles before emptying into the Pacific Ocean in Gold Beach, Oregon. Read on to learn more about the Rogue River.
1. WILD RIDE: The Rogue drops more than one mile in elevation by the time it reaches sea level. This has allowed the river to carve out beautiful canyons on its way to the ocean, making it one of the best destinations for hiking and raft trips.
2. WILDCARD (OR LETTER): Mail delivery via boat began on the Rogue in the 1890s. Propelled by rowing, poling, pushing, pulling, and sometimes by sail, the mail boat delivered letters, small packages, and groceries. In recent years, jet boats have taken over mail delivery (and tourists who want to ride along). This is one of the few remaining mail boat routes in the nation.
3. WILD AND SCENIC DESIGNATION: The Rogue was one of the original eight rivers protected by Congress’ 1968 Wild and Scenic Rivers Act. In fact, the Rogue has two protected sections now: the Wild & Scenic Upper Rogue River and the Wild & Scenic Lower Rogue River!
4. “WILD”ERNESS HIKING TRAIL: The 40-mile Rogue River National Recreation Trail runs alongside the the heart of the National Wild and Scenic Lower Rogue River Canyon and is a staggering wilderness playground! It offers views of fern-draped grottos, lush and pristine old-growth forest, narrow canyons of polished rock, meadows filled with wildflowers, beautiful sandy beaches, swimming holes, tumbling side streams, cascading waterfalls, and wildlife such as bald eagles, black bear and river otters.
5. NOT WILD ABOUT HIKING THAT MANY MILES?: Hiking this pristine trail (which is what we do during our May 17 – 21 trip) is an adventure. However, if you prefer to limit your miles on foot, you can instead see the Lower Rogue Canyon from a raft! There are options each day for those who wish to opt out of some or all of the hiking miles and ride in the raft. You can make this decision after discussing your options with the guides each morning.