Illinois River Trail - Oregon

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 Biscuit Fire (the largest in Oregon's recorded history) and the progress that nature has taken to recover from this catastrophic fire. Ironically, the destruction of some of the trees through fire has opened up views that would have otherwise been obstructed.

The trail is 27 miles (43 km) long starting near Agness (east of Gold Beach) and ending up west of Route 199 between Crescent City (CA) and Grants Pass. The trail starts out very easy with a gentle climb towards Buzzards Roost, and then continues descending slowly towards the Indigo Creek. The last portion towards the creek is somewhat steep with loose footings. The roundtrip to Buzzards Roost is about 2 & 1/2 hours. The roundtrip to Indigo Creek is 4 to 5 hours. Hiking to Buzzards Roost is straightforward (a few intersecting trails at the beginning - stay right towards the river). After Buzzards Roost, there is a trail to the left that leads up to Indigo Prairie. Continue going straight. A short distance later, the trail turns right and heads steeply down to Indigo Creek and a small bridge. Access to the creek from the bridge is nearly impossible.

Instead of turning right and heading down to the Indigo Creek Bridge, backpackers can continue to an open field that is a favorite for overnight camping. This field is on the north side of Indigo Creek.

After Indigo Creek, the trail becomes more challenging climbing to over 3,700 feet at Bald Mountain. The trail does not follow the Illinois River through much of the Kalmiopsis Wilderness.

Getting there: The Illinois River Trail is located east of Gold Beach. Driving to the trail head is easy, offering access to one of the few interior hikes where the roads leading to the trail head are paved the entire way. From Gold Beach, turn east at the south end of the bridge to Jerry's Flat Road (route 595 to NF-33). Follow for about 27 miles across the Illinois River bridge, turn right onto the narrow but paved Oak Flat Road (Rd-450) for about 3 more miles. Just before the pavement ends is parking for the trail head on the left. Total travel time is about 50 minutes.

Notes: Buzzards Roost, while offering fantastic views, is quite hazardous. Do not allow children or pets to climb out to this outcropping. A slip may result in a fatal fall. Other portions of the trail offer similar hazards, especially beyond Buzzards Roost (east). There is some poison oak along the trail - wear long pants. This trail, being in from the coast, is subject to hot weather in the summer and snow in the winter.

There is a primitive campground near the trail head. Swimming, kayaking and rafting are popular in the Illinois River near the trail head. There is a grocery store and a gas station approximately 4 miles away. Travel back towards the Rogue River and turn right.

According to the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department, class 3 (two wheel) ATV's are allowed on the Illinois River Trail (Oregon ATV permit required) although not on the portions that go through the wilderness. There may also be seasonal restrictions - use of off-road vehicles during the summer months is not allowed.

Downloadable GPX file (12 mile roundtrip - a few miles past Indigo Creek). Downloadable KLM file for Google Earth of this day hike.