Explore Wild & Scenic Southern Oregon
This is your year…
to discover wild and scenic Southern Oregon!
This incredibly biodiverse region, located a short 4.5-hour drive from Portland or an easy 5.5 hours from the Bay Area, offers year-round outdoor activities for the entire family. From the pristine, deep blue waters of Crater Lake to the wild rivers and enchanting forests of the Klamath and Rogue River Basins, to the majestic mountain peaks of the Siskiyou and Cascade ranges, Southern Oregon holds adventures for everyone.
8 Kid-Friendly Hikes
Explore this excellent guide of kid friendly hikes in the Rogue Valley. Enjoy scenic views, fresh air, and quality time with your little ones.
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Cycling
Committed road cyclists visiting the area will be hard-pressed to cram in the area’s best rides in under a week. Plan a one of a kind ride – a 33 mile rim ride around Crater Lake – or challenge yourself on the Cascade-Siskiyou Scenic Bikeway overlooking the Rogue River Valley. Or hook up with some local cyclists and get tips for riding through the scenic orchards and vineyards from Ashland through the Applegate Valley. For some excellent mountain biking within the city limits, check out the BTI Trail in the Alice in Wonderland trail system in the hills above Ashland just south of Lithia Park. For those hopping on bikes for the scenery, Southern Oregon offers the Bear Creek Greenway, an easy and scenic 18-mile ride connecting Ashland via Medford to Central Point, perfect for all ages and skill levels.
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Hiking
The Pacific Crest Trail is the crown jewel of our region’s amazingly diverse trail system. Choose Ashland as your launching point for longer journeys, or as a refueling station. For day-hikers, enjoy a short section of the PCT, (easily accessible from multiple points in Ashland,) or take a short drive to hikes along any number of crystal clear mountain lakes such as Lake of the Woods. Or, hike the slopes of Mount Ashland. Many other trails are accessible from downtown Ashland, or within a very short drive from the hotel. Check William Sullivan’s ever-popular trail guide for more information on trailheads: 100 Hikes in Southern Oregon.
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Emigrant Lake
Emigrant Lake is located on the southern end of the Rogue Valley in Ashland, Oregon. It features a large recreation area, which includes picnic areas, full-hookup RV park, 42-tent site campground, and two 280-foot waters slides open from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Emigrant Lake is a popular Oregon destination for swimming, boating, camping, fishing, canoeing and kayaking. The park is open year round for day use.
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Trail running
Explore local trails with easy access right from Lithia Park located in downtown Ashland, or participate in numerous trail races ranging from 5K to 100 milers organized by Rogue Valley Runner.
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Skiing (downhill, cross country and Nordic), snowboarding and snowshoeing
Mt. Ashland, at 7,532-ft altitude, is located just a 30 minute drive from Ashland. Its 200 acres of skiable terrain offers 23 ski runs served by four lifts, and breathtaking views of Northern California and Southern Oregon.
For the cross country and Nordic skiers out there, Southern Oregon has many options, including 17 serene miles of groomed trails at Buck Prairie.
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Snowmobiling
Check out the numerous Sno-Parks of Southern Oregon. The most popular spot for snowmobiling can be found by Lake of the Woods Resort.
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Water Adventures
Southern Oregon is home to several wild and scenic rivers, breathtaking mountain lakes, and also numerous experienced outfitters who can plan and execute memorable trips for you, including white water rafting along the Rogue River, kayaking and canoeing, paddle boarding, and jet-boat river trips.
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Flyfishing
Check with the pros at the Ashland Fly Shop for reports and conditions on the various hot spots, and for classes and gear.
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Ziplining
Take in the views while ziplining through the old, historic mining hills a short 30 minute drive north of Ashland.
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Golfing
Avid golfers have many course options. Southern Oregon offers a number of beautifully designed courses, from the Centennial Golf Club located on the hills overlooking Medford, to the Eagle Point Golf Club located just 10 miles north from Medford.
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Bird watching
For unforgettable birding, head east towards Klamath Falls, and take the Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway, which leads you to Upper Klamath Lake, in the Upper Klamath National Wildlife Refuge. Between November and March, impressive numbers of wintering bald eagles can often be found on the waters in the Klamath Basin. For a guided trip head out with the Klamath Basin Audubon Society.
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Wine Country
Named the “next Napa” by Vogue Online, Southern Oregon is home to over 250 vineyards, 100 wineries, and over 70 varieties of red and white wine grapes. Enjoy sustainably grown and nationally acclaimed vintages, take in epic views of the region, and get ready to experience a top wine travel destination. Nationally recognized by Forbes, Sunset, New York Times, Wine Enthusiast and more! Southern Oregon Wines
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Enjoy your stay in Ashland Oregon
Arts & Entertainment
Entertainment awaits!
Oregon Shakespeare Festival
Founded in 1935, the Tony Award-winning Oregon Shakespeare Festival (OSF) is among the oldest and largest professional non-profit theatres in the nation. Each year OSF presents an eight-and-a-half-month season of eleven plays in three theatres plus numerous activities, and undertakes an extensive theatre education program.
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Toll Free Reservations 541.482.4331
15 South Pioneer St, Ashland
Oregon Cabaret Theatre
Enjoy first-rate entertainment in an elegant yet comfortable setting of the historic “Old Pink Church” featuring stained glass windows and crystal chandelier. Five cabaret productions of dynamic musicals, revues, and comedies performed February thru December. Dinner, desserts and beverages available prior to shows.
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Toll Free Reservations 541.488.2902
S. 1st St, Ashland
ScienceWorks Hands-on Museum
This hands-on discovery museum is fun for the entire family. The exhibits change monthly and offer easy access to the world of science. Open Wednesday thru Saturday 10:00am to 5:00pm and Sundays 12:00pm to 5:00pm. Admission: Fee varies.
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Toll Free Reservations 541.482.6767
1500 E. Main St, Ashland
Varsity Theatre
A historic movie theater in downtown Ashland shows independent as well as mainstream movies. The Varsity Theatre also hosts the annual Ashland Independent Film Festival in the spring.
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Toll Free Reservations 541.482.3321
166 East Main St, Ashland
First Friday Art Walk
Sponsored each month by the Ashland Gallery Association; discover an amazing array of art forms and expressions while strolling through beautiful downtown Ashland year round.
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Toll Free Reservations 541.488.8430
Camelot Theatre Co.
This semi-professional theatre located just 5 miles from Ashland has been serving the Rogue Valley community since 1982. Featuring new state-of-the-art theatre was opened in June 2011.
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Toll Free Reservations 541.535.5250
101 Talent Ave, Talent
Historic Jacksonville
This gold rush town of the 1850’s is full of antiques, restored homes, shops and museums and home to the famous Britt Festival with outdoor performances taking place between June and September. Just 20 miles outside of Ashland.
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Toll Free Reservations 541.899.8118
Britt Festivals
Britt Festivals is the Pacific Northwest’s premiere outdoor summer performing arts festival. Located in the historic Jacksonville, Britt presents dozens of summer concerts, featuring world-class artists in jazz, folk, country, pop, dance, and classical music. The Britt Festivals Gardens and Amphitheater is located in Jacksonville about five miles west of Medford and 20 miles outside of Ashland.
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Toll Free Reservations 541.779.0847
Enjoy your stay in Ashland Oregon
Annual Events
Oregon Chocolate Festival – MARCH EVENT
Chocolate lovers’ paradise! The festival takes place at the Ashland Springs Hotel during the first weekend in March. Features Oregon chocolatiers and specialty food vendors. Includes chef demonstrations, workshops, Chocolate Makers Dinner, baking class and more.
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Toll Free Reservations 541.488.1700
Oregon Cheese Festival – MARCH EVENT
Annual festival takes place during the 3rd weekend in March. Oregon-inspired culinary events, including a farmer’s market-style artisan food and wine festival, kick off with the Meet the Cheesemakers and Winemakers Dinner. Sample cow, sheep and goat cheese from Oregon creameries. Held under 1 large tent at Rogue Creamery’s Central Point facility.
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Toll Free Reservations 866.396.4704
Ashland Independent Film Festival – APRIL EVENT
Five-day event featuring documentaries, feature and short films. Shake hands with the filmmakers; attend screenings, discussions and workshops offered at the Varsity Movie Theatre, the historic Armory and the Ashland Springs Hotel.
Contact Information
Toll Free Reservations 541.488.3823
A Taste of Ashland – APRIL EVENT
Ashland Gallery Association’s annual fundraiser and a great excuse to explore local art and culinary scene. Over the course of one weekend in late April enjoy great pairings from local restaurants, wineries offered at Ashland art galleries located throughout downtown.
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Brine, Brew & Barrel Fermentation Festival – JUANUARY EVENT
celebrates the multi-cultural culinary tradition of fermented products including pickles, krauts, kombucha, beer, wine, cider, mead, chocolate, cheese, coffee, sourdough, and everything in between.
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Fourth of July Celebrations – JULY EVENT
Wonderful traditional 4th of July Celebration each year attracts over 20,000 visitors. Celebrate in Ashland with a morning run, huge parade, music and food in Lithia Park, and fireworks at night.
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Southern Oregon Pride Festival – OCTOBER EVENT
October is the national ‘coming out’ month and we celebrate it big in Ashland. Join Southern Oregon Pride in their annual festivities that include a kick off dance party, a street parade, and more.
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Food & Wine Classic – NOVEMBER EVENT
Annual celebration of our local chefs and their great skills. The event includes workshops, presentations as well as the iron chef competition.
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Festival of Lights Parade – NOVEMBER/DECEMBER EVENTS
Each year, the day after Thanksgiving Ashland downtown turns into a magical winter wonderland with all buildings and trees being covered with Christmas lights.
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Enjoy your stay in Ashland Oregon
Food & Wine
Luna Café + Mercantile
Casual eatery with great tastes and treats for the whole family! Located inside the Ashland Hills Hotel & Suites, this Oregon-centric restaurant offers food cooked from scratch with a focus on fresh and local. A hip throwback to the 70’s, Luna’s specialty is gourmet pizza, burgers, vegetarian options, artisan coffees, house-made pastries, micro brews, cocktails, and the region’s best local wines and cheeses. Take in the best views in town while eating on the deck overlooking the beautiful hills of Ashland, or under umbrellas on the animal friendly patio. Enjoy a craft cocktail inside at the bar, or at rattan and retro settees and tables. Traveler-friendly, with grab-n-go picnic and road trip provisions.
Contact Information
541.482.3372
2525 Ashland St.
Paschal Winery
Located minutes from Ashland, this hilltop winery overlooks world-famous pear orchards and the Cascade-Siskiyou mountain ranges. Tasting room and picnic area.
Contact Information
Toll Free Reservations 541.535.7957
1122 Suncrest Rd, Talent
Weisinger’s of Ashland Winery
Family owned winery located in Ashland. Features beautiful tasting room with a deck overlooking surrounding mountains. Live music during summer months.
Contact Information
Toll Free Reservations 541.488.5989
3150 Siskiyou Blvd. Ashland
Roxy Ann Winery
RoxyAnn Winery was founded in 2002 at the historic Hillcrest Orchard in east Medford. RoxyAnn’s vineyard is located on the southwest slopes of Roxy Ann Peak. Tasting Room in the historic Hillcrest barn is OPEN DAILY just minutes off Interstate-5 in Medford. Bring a picnic, and join us for wine tasting while enjoying the beautiful gardens overlooking the vineyard and orchard.
Contact Information
Toll Free Reservations 541.776.2315
3285 Hillcrest Rd, Medford
Eden Vale Winery
Geographically positioned as the Gateway to the Southern Oregon Wine Country, Eden Valley is a destination facility rich in history, grace and that authentic Oregon feel. The gracious Voorhies Mansion and picturesque property is the “place and story” that anchors the Rogue Valley’s Agricultural history. In the heart of Oregon’s pear country and surrounded by the rolling hills of the Southern Oregon, Eden Valley is the perfect location for your picnic accompanied by a wine tasting.
Contact Information
Toll Free Reservations 541.512.2955
2310 Voorhies Rd, Medford
Valley View Winery
Established first in the 1850’s, Valley View Winery welcomes you with a spectacular tasting room located in the picturesque Applegate Valley.
Contact Information
Toll Free Reservations 541.899.8468
1000 Upper Applegate Road, Jacksonville
Larks – Home Kitchen Cuisine Restaurant
Located in the heart of downtown, at the historic Ashland Springs Hotel Larks restaurant celebrates Oregon: its farms, orchards, creameries and wineries offering dishes that excite and surprise with freshness and flavors. They offer the freshest & local ingredients possible. Larks celebrates Oregon’s bounty by creating innovative cuisine from scratch. Dishes like homemade meatloaf, hearty soups, colorful salads and grilled Northwest steelhead are the most popular. Pastry chef’s creations depend on what is available that season and include fruit tarts, chocolate cake with housemade salted caramel ice cream, or cranberry-pumpkin bread pudding. Beverage selection extends the theme of local and seasonal with a choice of herb infused cocktails made with Oregon spirits, local wines, and beers.
Contact Information
Toll Free Reservations 541.488.5558
212 E. Main Street, Ashland
Lillie Belle Farms
Voted one the Top 10 Chocolatiers in North America by Dessert Professional Magazine, chocolatier Jeff Shepherd has turned his passion for all things chocolate into an international tourist destination. His exhibition kitchen and eclectic shop in Central Point has become a “must see” for every visitor to Southern Oregon. With over 100 different award winning chocolates on display it is no wonder Oprah, Martha Stewart, Bob Dylan, Tom Petty, and Wolfgang Puck all have one thing is common; a love for Lillie Belle Farms Hand Made Chocolates. Open 7 days a week.
Contact Information
Toll Free Reservations 541.664.2815
211 N. Front St. Central Point
Rogue Creamery
This Creamery has won numerous trophies and awards, including World’s Best Blue Cheese at the World Cheese Awards in London, a first for a U.S. creamery.
Contact Information
Toll Free Reservations 541.665.1155
311 N. Front St. Central Point
Harry and David Country Village and Factory Tour
This flagship store of Harry and David and Jackson & Perkins Roses is in the northwest. In addition to offering daily tours, the country store offers a coffee bar, garden sitting and full product line gift shop.
Contact Information
Toll Free Reservations 541.864.2277
1314 Center Dr. Medford
Gary West Meats
By 1989 in Jacksonville, Gary’s Hickory Smoked Beef Jerky was becoming the mainstay of the business with mail order and wholesale accounts reaching across the United States and Japan. Today products from Gary West Meats are highly prized for their delicious flavor, superior quality, low fat, no additives and minimal use of preservatives. Visit their gift and tasting shop located in Jacksonville.
Contact Information
Toll Free Reservations 800.833.1820
690 North 5th St. Jacksonville
Enjoy your stay in Ashland Oregon