2. South Fork Rogue River
This well-built trail follows the South Fork Rogue River for more than 12 miles through old-growth woods. There are three trailheads; Upper, Middle, and Lower, you will find good turnaround points for short hikes in either direction. Caution: there are sometimes large downed logs scattered throughout the trail system.
We recommend starting your hike at either the Lower or Middle South Fork Trailhead. The US Forest Service describes the Upper trailhead as a minimally maintained primitive trail, one not recommended for horses, and a challenging workout for those on foot.
Massive old-growth Sugar pine tree. Photo Credit: Michael Dotson
Hike Description:
The Middle Fork hike features old-growth Douglas Fir and Pine trees and plentiful wildflowers such as; Oregon Grape, twinflower, and princess pine. At .7 miles you will cross Big Ben Creek where you can take a side trail to the left that follows a cascading creek up toward Big Ben Campground. If you continue straight the main trail crosses the creek on a 70-foot log. There are plenty of small gravel bars along the river here to explore. If you decide to keep following the main trail upriver, you will cross three more large side creeks and gravel road 800 before reaching the Upper trailhead.
The Lower Fork hike follows a very scenic part of the river’s canyon, crossing two side creeks on bridges. For a short trip, turn right after the second bridge on a side trail that crosses road 3775 and climbs .2 miles to a giant sugar pine tree. Douglas firs four feet in diameter can be found here as well.
William Sullivan's “100 Hikes in Southern Oregon” book is a great resource to learn more about this trail system.
Directions:
From Butte Falls, OR, travel east for 1 mile to the Prospect-Butte Falls Highway, turn left and proceed (north) for 8.5 miles to Forest Road 34 (Lodgepole Road). Turn right and continue 8.1 miles to the signed parking area on the right, located approximately 0.25 mile after crossing the lower bridge. The Lower and Middle Fork trailheads are on opposite sides of Forest Road 37. You can find a map with trail access coordinates here.
Caution:
Always use caution, good planning, and check in with managing agencies before embarking on a trip. Don’t forget to pack maps, extra layers, plenty of food and water, a first aid kit, and a cell phone in case of an emergency. It is a good idea to let someone know where you are going and when you intend to be back. Be aware that weather and road conditions can change in an instant. KS Wild assumes no liability if you intend to visit any of the places featured in our materials.