In all, the North Umpqua Trail follows this whitewater river 79 miles to its headwaters in the High Cascades. If that seems too long a hike, try the 5.5-mile segment featured here—from Wright Creek to the settlement of Steamboat. This portion shows off the river at its best, with access to hidden beaches and rock riverbanks. There’s even an optional return loop that’s popular with bicyclists.  Along the way you’ll pass the wooded campsite where Western writer Zane Grey fished. Because his earlier articles had crowded the Rogue River with anglers, Grey never named the North Umpqua in print.

To start the hike, take exit . . .

Other Options

Like to see more of the North Umpqua Trail? Downstream, the path . . .

This chapter is an excerpt from 100 Hikes: Southern Oregon