Hiking near Gold Beach - Port Orford

Blacklock Point - Floras Lake Hike

Blacklock Point is one of the most beautiful spots on the coast, but few are willing to make the hike to see it. The view to the south is of Cape Blanco and the beam from the lighthouse is clearly visible. To the north is a view of the spectacular yellow cliffs (access to the beach below the cliffs is from the north end near Floras Lake and should only be hiked at low tide). The hike to Floras Lake offers access to the beach and the southern edge of Floras Lake. The Blacklock Point - Floras Lake hike is unlike many of those on the Oregon coast in that it is nearly flat and can be used by mountain bikes and equestrians. The hike starts at a small parking area near a local airport and heads to scenic viewpoints along cliffs, then north to the beaches along Floras Lake. A loop to both Blacklock Point and Floras Lake is a 10 mile (16 km) round trip. The hike to Blacklock Point is about a 4 mile (6.5 km) round trip. There are at least two unofficial camping spots ... more

Cape Blanco Lighthouse and State Park

The Cape Blanco Lighthouse is a favorite location for whale watching and offers spectacular views. Built in 1898, the historic Hughes House is also located at the park with tours available while the lighthouse is open. There is fishing access to Sixes River from the State Park. The Cape Blanco State Park has over 8 miles of hiking trails, beach walks, and 7 miles of horse trails ... more

Port Orford Heads State Park and Museum

The Port Orford Lifeboat Station and Museum was constructed in 1934 and remained in service until 1970. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The park has excellent hiking trails and beach access affording spectacular views up and down the Pacific Coast with opportunities for picnicking and marine wildlife and whale watching. There is a short (0.3 mile) trail from the museum out to the site of the former spotting tower. A slightly longer trail (0.4 mile) returns from the tower site to the museum and offers views of the former boathouse that is worthwhile if only because the challenges of launching a boat becomes readily apparent.

The Port Orford Lifeboat Station and Museum is free and is open April-October, Thursday-Monday, 10 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Admission is free. A 36-foot motor lifeboat used at this station is on display outside of the museum.

The biggest challenge is finding the turn to drive to this hidden gem. From US 101, turn west on 9th street, then left on Port Orford Highway / Coast Guard Hill. The turn off of US 101 can be spotted from the "Tsunami Evacuation Route" sign - one of the few that points towards the ocean. The museum parking lot is at the end of the short up-hill, winding road.

Port Orford, OR

Humbug Hiking Trail

Humbug Mountain hiking trail is 5 to 6 miles (8 to 10 km), depending on route selected, and climbs just over 1,600 ft (500 meters). It is a well maintained trail, quite popular and easy to get to.

The trail starts immediately from the gravel parking lot and climbs steadily. After about a mile, the route splits. The east route is slightly longer and is a more gradual climb. The west route is a little steeper, but offers one spectacular view. It is suggested that the hiker climb using the east route and descends via the west route.

Shortly before the top, the two routes come back together. There are limited views throughout the hike, but the big attraction is the large number of huge old growth trees as well as the challenge of the climb.

At the top, there is a bench and a small view south along the coast. On the west side, there are two benches and an excellent view north towards Port Orford Heads. On a clear day, the Cape Blanco Lighthouse is visible.

For those wishing to cut the hike in half, yet capture the view, plan on taking the west route to the benches, then turn around and return.

The Humbug Mountain trail head is south of Port Orford and is immediately north of the entrance of to Humbug Mountain State Park campground immediately off of US Route 101.

Download kmz file of this hike for use on Google Earth. Download GPX file of this hike for use in your GPS.

For more information, contact (541) 332-6774 or (800) 551- 6949.

Sisters Rocks

For the more adventurous, looking for views, a sea cave and remote beaches, don't miss the Sisters Rocks. Sisters Rocks is a Oregon State Park but without any improvements. Sisters Rocks are three outcroppings, two of which are connected to land. Middle Sister is a short distance off shore. Sisters Rocks is also known as the Devil's Backbone Rocky Shore Area and consists of 2.7 miles of offshore rocks and sandy beaches. The offshore rocks and islands are part of the Oregon Islands National Wildlife Refuge and contain colonies of seabirds. Sea lions are common in the area. Activities include tidepooling, beachcombing, bird watching, ... more

Otter Point

This little secret is a must see for those who travel along the Oregon Coast. Park your car and take a short walk out to the point and gaze at the waves crashing below, the surf at the cove to the north, or the broad long Bailey Beach to the south. If you have time, there is a 10-minute hike to the south. For the adventurous, there is a short but challenging trail on the north ... more

Bailey Beach

Bailey Beach is a lonely stretch of soft gentle sand that is a favorite for a relaxing stroll. It is not unusual to walk the three miles and not see a single person. The beach is bordered by the shear cliffs of Otter Point on the north and the Rogue River on the south. On a clear day, it is possible to see the light from the Cape Blanco Lighthouse to the north. During low tides, it is a favorite of the locals to dig for razor clams. Access to Bailey Beach is easy, with parking off the Old Coast Road just north of the Rogue River Jetty, at the gravel parking lot a mile north, or at Otter Point Park. Dogs are ... more

Schrader Old Growth Trail

Frances Schrader Old Growth Trail 1172 (alternate spelling: Shrader) includes old growth Douglas fir and hardwoods trees all in a compact, easy to hike 1 to 1.5 mile (2.4 km) gravel trail. These majestic trees rival the California Redwoods in stature. A guide is available near the trailhead directing the hiker to numbered posts for areas of special interest along the trail.

The trail is suitable for all ages, is extremely well maintained and includes two benches and two picnic tables. There is a suitably large parking lot and a restroom.

To reach the trail, from US Route 101 at the Rogue River, travel east along Jerry's Flat Road (County road 595) for 10 miles. Just before the Lobster Creek Bridge across the Rogue, is a right turn up Forest Service road 33 (Spur Road 060). There is a sign for the trail at this turn. The first portion of the road is paved, but it soon gives way to gravel but it is easily traveled by car. It is 2 miles (3 km) to the parking lot. The trailhead is immediately across the gravel road.

For more information, consult the Gold Beach Ranger District Office.

Gold Beach beaches

The beach immediately west of the town of Gold Beach is known as Agate Beach. It stretches from the south jetty of the Rogue River, down to Cape Sebastian. Towards the center is a landmark rock outcropping known as Kissing Rock which itself is located along Hunter Creek. To the north of the Rogue, and outside the city limits of Gold Beach is Bailey Beach. This beach is listed on some maps, ... more

333 Hiking Trail

The 333 trail has everything a day hiker could want on the Oregon Coast Trail: easy access, it is well marked, beautiful scenery, lots of options, and yet it is not widely used. The trail travels through an excellent example of a temperate rain forest, down to the Pacific Coast Trail. The hiker then has the option of heading north, to a beach destination, or south and a moderately challenging hike to the top of Cape Sebastian. Hiking time can vary from 2 to 5 hours depending on the route selected. The trail is so named because it starts at the 333 mile marker on Route 101. There is an unimproved gravel parking area about 50 feet south of the entrance. Hike into the woods, following ... more

Cape Sebastian

Cape Sebastian offers stunning views to the north and south on a clear day. This is a "must" for anyone traveling the Pacific Coast Highway Route 101 through Oregon. From the south parking lot, there is a spectacular view of the Pistol River, 3 miles (5 km) to the south. The Point Saint George Lighthouse and Crescent City are 34 miles (55 km) due south. Don't stay in your car, but venture out a short distance on the trail on the west side of the parking lot for views ... more

Pistol River

Pistol River, OR, is one of the most scenic stretches along any coast in the world. There are numerous scenic viewpoints along Route 101 to pull over and watch the Pacific Ocean. Meyers Beach and Hunters Cove are a favorite of surfers, wind surfers and equestrians, and is a wide, kid and pet friendly beach to walk along. At night, it is not unusual ... more

Oregon Coast Trail - Arch Rock to Lone Ranch

The Oregon Coast Trail, between Brookings and Gold Beach offers a long unbroken section with some of the finest scenery on the coast. The trail is well maintained, yet it is not crowded. Perfect for day hikes, there are ample parking areas along this section of the coast for easy access. Hike as far as you want, then return to your car. Or better yet, take two cars and cover a larger area in the same amount of time. On the north, start at Arch Rock, ... more

Spruce Island

The Spruce Island Viewpoint is located north of Brookings near US Route 101 mile marker 345. It is also a favorite parking lot for those hiking to Secret Beach.

South from the parking lot, there is about a 0.3 mile hike along the Oregon Coast Trail to a view of Spruce Island. Continue along the trail and visit the not-so-secret picturesque Secret Beach and Miner Creek.

North from the parking lot, the coast trail leads to Arch Rock Park. The hike is about 1/2 a mile and is fairly easy.

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Secret Beach

Secret Beach is a very small beach located on a trail just south of Spruce Island Viewpoint and north of Thunder Rock Cove. There are two theories as to how this beach got its name. One is that there is not an official parking lot or designation. The other is that the furthest of the three beaches is only accessible during exceptionally low tides and was visited by only a few people each year. Secret Beach is hardly a secret anymore and, although very pretty, it is visited by tourists. The first beach is accessible at any tide. Follow the path down to the parking area, then there is a steep and somewhat challenging climb down a rock, across a small stream to a beach. At low tide, it is possible ... more

Rogue River Walk

The Rogue River Walk is a trail for nature lovers that extends just east of Gold Beach to the Lobster Creek Bridge. This trail provides stunning views of the Rogue River as it weaves its way along the riverbank. The walk is relatively flat with benches located along the trail. Osprey, Bald Eagles and River Otters can be seen from the trail.

The trail starts east of US Route 101, near the old mill site, and continues up to Lobster Creek, where it connects (over the bridge) to the Lower Rogue River Trail. Those planning on continuing to this trail will need to hike a gravel road, FS-3533, to the trail head.

For more information, download this PDF of the hike with additional information and a map.

Lower Rogue River Trail 1168

The Lower Rogue River Trail #1168 is perfect for a day hike or a nature stroll. It is 12 miles long, offers excellent views of the Wild and Scenic Rogue River, and is easily accessed by car. A hiker can start at one trail head for a round trip hike, or have two vehicles and hike the entire length. There are no camping facilitates, water or toilets on this portion of the trail. Those looking for longer hikes, ... more

Rogue River Hiking Trail

The Rogue River Trail follows the wild and scenic Rogue River from east of Agness to near Galice, OR. It is perfect for a day trip nature walk or a backpacking and camping trip. It is also possible to hike from lodge to lodge without ever pitching a tent. The trail offers unparalleled experiences and views of the famous wild and scenic river, a great way to experience nature at its finest. The trail is well maintained by the BLM and the Forest Service and travels along the north bank of the river. The Rogue River Trail is over 40 miles long and takes 4 to 5 days to cover. There are moderate grades, ... more

Fritsche Cabin Trail

The Fritsche Cabin Trail is one of the more physically demanding trails in the Gold Beach / Rogue River area and is lightly used. The trail head starts at 200 ft (60 m) above sea level and climbs to 2400 ft (730 m) in 3.8 miles (6.1 km). It is generally well marked and ends in the general location of the cabin (apparently, there are not any remains of the cabin). The trail is perfect for those who are looking for a good workout and a quiet respite through the woods ... more

Illinois River Trail

The Illinois River Trail (1161), located in the Siskiyou National Forest, is perfect for day hikers, backpacking, equestrians and class 3 ATV riding. It offers breathtaking views of the rugged Illinois canyon and the river below. Along the route is Buzzards Roost, which is a rock, outcropping offering unparalleled views of the valley. Wildflowers are abundant from late May through July. There are camping spots along the trail for those spending the night. The trail offers an opportunity to see the dramatic effects of the 2002 ... more

Pine Grove Hike Trail 1170 - Rogue River - Siskiyou National Forest

The Pine Grove Hiking Trail starts at the Rogue River, 25 miles east of Gold Beach on the Oregon coast. The trail starts at an altitude of 600 feet (200 meters) and climbs to 2,700 feet (900 meters) over a distance of about 7 miles (11 km). Initially, the hike is extremely steep. Do not let this short portion discourage, because after the first 1/4 mile, the trail levels off to a mostly gradual climb. The trail is well marked yet is lightly traveled. There are views of the Rogue River as well as the surrounding Siskiyou mountains and the Illinois Valley. Stating that the hiking trail has a distance of 7 miles is misleading, ... more

McKinley Mine Trail

McKinley Mine Trail is an interesting hike into history, with the side benefit of views of the Siskiyou National Forest. The drive to the trail head is a relatively short 17 mile drive up asphalt and gravel roads. At the trail head is an unofficial campground. Start at the trail head near Signal Buttes and head west. The ruins of Col. Munsey cabin are about a 20 minute one-way hike and are marked by a sign. A short distance beyond is his grave, also marked by a sign and a pile of rocks. Continue west to the old mine tunnel site which is now ... more

Wild Horse Lookout

Wild Horse Lookout located a short distance up the Rogue River in the mountains, offers views of the Siskiyou National Forest as well as the Pacific. Note that some of the roads to the lookout are not paved but are accessible by automobile.

Directions: From Gold Beach, head north towards the Rogue River and turn right on Jerry's Flat Road just prior to the bridge. Head east approximately 12 miles past Lobster Creek Bridge. Turn right at a sign for Wild Horse L. O. and travel the windy road to the lookout. Approximately an hour drive.

Map.

Snow Camp Trail

Snow Camp is better known for its lookout, but there is also a hiking trail of the same name. The Snow Camp north trail head is at FS route 3680 and travels just south of the lookout, across Windy Valley Creek and onto FS route 1407. The first part of the trail starts out at 3900 feet and travels through a spectacular old growth forest. It then moves out into an area burned by the 2002 Biscuit Fire, a destructive blaze ... more

Gold Beach Visitors Center

(800) 525-2334
The  Visitors Center is located on the beach at the southern end of town. It is located on beach and offers information about area artists, art galleries, events, hiking, camping, etc - open 7 days a week in the summer, closed Sunday during the off season.  There is ample parking, RV turnarround and easiy access to the beach.  Restrooms and Internet access.

Rogue Wilderness
Hiking information and package trips on the Rogue River.
800-336-1647
(541) 479-9554
PO Box 1110
Merlin, OR