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Rogue River
The best way to experience the Rogue River is to take a ride on one of the Jet Boats. Fishermen should make plans to stop and fish, either by renting a boat, or signing up with one of the highly skilled river guides.
For those looking for an alternative, take a short 22 mile scenic loop on the north and south banks of the Rogue. The round trip crosses the Lobster Creek Bridge at its midpoint and is easy to drive or bike. There are ample opportunities to pull off and watch the osprey and bald eagles as they nest and dive into the river. Lucky visitors may catch a sight of a river otter or two. Closer to the mouth, harbor seals and sea lions abound.
There are several places to pull off the road and drive down to the river. The Lobster Creek Campground (on the south road near the Lobster Creek Bridge) offers paved access to the river. There are also several poorly marked unpaved roads to nearly isolated gravel bars (high clearance vehicle required).
Those with a bit more time should plan a trip up to Agness for lunch or dinner. The drive is about 50 minutes in each direction, but offers more exposure to the Rogue, the valley and the wildlife.
There is a new Rogue River Trail (not the same trail as the 40-mile trail along Agness and east) is located along the south bank. Look for several signs for hiking along the river.
Getting there: Approach the Rogue River Bridge in Gold Beach from either the north or south, turn east along the road along the river. The North Bank River Road (545) has at least two forks - always take the right one towards the river. Follow until the North Bank Road ends and bear right across the single lane Lobster Creek Bridge. Turn west on Jerry's Flat Road (595) and return to Gold Beach.
Additional side trips: Take a few moments and visit the World's largest Myrtlewood Tree. Just north of the single lane Lobster Creek Bridge, the now gravel North Bank Road (also known as Silver Creek Road, Forest Service road 3533) continues. Drive just a short distance (~1/4 mile) down this road and look for parking along the road and a trail on the left. The hike is a little steep but is short and not too difficult. Another side trip is a drive to the Frances Schrader Old Growth Trail. This trail is located 2 miles up the narrow gravel road just to the south of Lobster Creek Bridge. While the road is gravel, it should be an easy drive for all vehicles. Look for a parking lot on the left. The hike is an easy and highly informative that the entire family can enjoy.
