1.
Roseburg
Whether this is the beginning or end of your Scenic Byway drive, check out the many attractions in this city on the historic Applegate Trail. Explore years of history at the Douglas County Museum or visit a local winery. From Roseburg, the Byway heads east on Oregon Route 138 through a lush rural landscape.
2.
Up the North Umpqua
In the community of Glide, stop at Colliding Rivers, where the North Umpqua and the Little River converge. From here, the Byway parallels the "Wild and Scenic" North Umpqua as it rocks and rolls down a narrow canyon. Along the way are legendary spots for fly-fishing, whitewater rafting, kayaking, and many other recreational pursuits. There are also numerous places where you can access the beautiful North Umpqua Trail for a hike of up to 77 miles. The shady route through the Umpqua National Forest passes Swiftwater Park, Toketee Reservoir and several dramatic rock outcroppings, such as Eagle Rock and Old Man Rock. Take at least one of the many well-marked trails to a number of misty waterfalls, such as Susan Creek Falls, Toketee Falls or 272-foot Watson Falls. Depending on the time of year, watch for vibrant wildflowers or fall colors.
3.
Sparkling Diamond Lake
Farther east is Lemolo Lake, a haven for fishing, boating and camping. Here, Oregon Route 138 heads south to Diamond Lake, a scenic gem nestled between Mt. Bailey and the lightning-rod spire of Mt. Thielsen. Diamond Lake’s 24-carat fun includes a resort complete with lodging, a marina and horse stables. In summer and fall, you can compete with osprey for rainbow trout or bike around the lake on a paved path. In wintertime, the path turns into a groomed cross-country ski trail, the lake becomes a giant ice rink, and Mt. Bailey offers phenomenal snowcat skiing.
At the south end of Diamond Lake, Oregon Route 138 curves to the south and east and approaches the north entrance of Crater Lake National Park. The Byway, however, turns west onto Oregon Route 230 and offers a clear look at the peaks and ridges above Crater Lake -- the remains of Mt. Mazama -- at Crater Rim Viewpoint.
4.
Running Down the Rogue
Oregon Route 230 begins following the Rogue River and merges with Oregon Route 62 near historic Union Creek. Stop at the Rogue Gorge and Natural Bridge interpretive sites to see the river thundering through deep, narrow chasms. Under a canopy of conifers between here and Prospect, you’ll find several campgrounds along the "Wild and Scenic" Rogue. Lost Creek Lake offers diverse recreational opportunities, including Stewart State Park. A little farther on, Shady Cove attracts anglers and river rafters.
5.
Southern Oregon Hospitality
The Scenic Byway heads west on Oregon Route 234 past Table Rocks and meets the Rogue again in the friendly town of Gold Hill, the Byway’s southern portal. From here, you can easily reach the bustling Rogue Valley cities of Medford, Jacksonville, Ashland and Grants Pass.
For a free vacation guide, contact the Southern Oregon Visitors Association in Medford: 800-448-4856. For Byway and trail information, contact the Umpqua National Forest 541-672-6601, Rogue River National Forest 541-858-2200, or the Bureau of Land Management at 541-440-4930.