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 unparallel 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, small bridges over creeks, campsites and private lodges along the trail (reservations required). Those wishing to travel the entire length usually start at the east end (Grave Creek near Galice) and head west as it is generally downhill. Many park at the west end, closest to Agness and Gold Beach and hike up river for an overnight (or longer) trip. Others can use the trail head as a starting point for a day hike or nature walk.

The best time of the year to hike the trail is from May (after the rainy season) through October. The wettest month is December but rains can continue through early spring. In the summer, it can be quite hot and dry during the day, but quite chilly at night. There can be slides and downed trees during the winter and the BLM and Forest Service repair the trail in May.

To reach the east Agness trail head, follow Jerry's Flat Road from Route 101 in Gold Beach for approximately 35 miles. Cross the Illinois River (do not turn right), then cross the Rogue River. Turn right (east) onto Agness - Illahe Road (County Road 375). Drive approximately 4 miles past the Illahe campground. The Rogue River Trail head is on the right. Latitude: 42.634682°, Longitude -124.050698° There is plenty of parking at this trail head. The mile markers refer to this western trail head.

There is also access to a middle point via Marial Road near Mule Creek, the Rogue River Ranch, Tucker Flat Campground and Marial Lodge (mile points 23 - 24).

This webpage covers the trail from Illahe to Grave Creek, which is the longest portion of the trail. For information about the Lower Rogue River Trail #1168 (from Agness to just east of Lobster Creek), see the lower trail page.

Hints and Suggestions

While there is water available at several sites along the hike, it must be treated prior to drinking.

There are toilets at some campgrounds but not all. If camping overnight, it is wise to pack a plastic shovel to bury your waste. Look out for poison oak, ticks, rattlesnakes and black bears. While soap use is discouraged, it is wise to bring along and use a small amount to remove any poison oak from hands. Black bears can be a problem in the valley. Always use the widely available bear boxes or electric fences to store all food at night. If not available near your campsite, hang food at least 10 feet off the round and 4 feet from the trunk of a tree. See the Forest Service or BLM for bear proofing information. Cooking should be done on gas or propane stoves. Wood fires are discouraged as they scar this beautiful landscape (they are not allowed during fire season).

It is possible to hike from lodge to lodge. However, each lodge must be contacted individually (see 'Grave Creek to Watson Creek' and 'Watson Creek to Blue Jay Creek') and many fill up with the river rafters, so plan well in advance.

The BLM provides an excellent mile by mile trail guide for the hike.

More information is available from the BLM map of the Rogue River Trail and campsites. There is also a map of the roads in the area. Note that RV's are not recommended on Route 23 and many of the other roads at any time of the year.