Rogue River Trail

Is your pup craving some adventure? Then it’s time for a trek down the Rogue River Valley Trail. Stretching 40 miles, this gorgeous trail runs alongside the Rogue River and showcases the wild terrain of Southwestern Oregon. 

The western trailhead is located in the Foster Bar Boat Launch parking lot while the eastern trailhead can be found in the Grave Creek Boat Ramp parking lot. Most folks begin the hike at Grave Creek and travel west down the Rogue Valley. If you plan on hiking the entire trail, arrange for a drop off and pick up, or hire one of the local shuttle services to move your car while you are hiking.

As you follow the beautiful trail through the riparian habitat, watch for daring rafters who are floating the Rogue River. While the higher elevation areas of the trail run through forests, the lower sections are quite exposed. Due to the lack of shade and blazing hot summer temperatures, most backpackers hit this trail in the spring or fall.

Logistically speaking, this trail is pretty easy to navigate. There are multiple campsites along the way, some with restrooms. Opportunities to filter water are abundant, and there are a few water refill stops such as at the Smullin Visitors Center and Rogue River Ranch. If your pup prefers a cozy cabin to a sleeping bag, make a reservation at one of the private lodges on the trail. Black bears are known to roam through the western portion of the trail. When camping overnight, food must be stored properly in bear resistant containers.

If your furry friend isn’t up for a multiple day trip, just hop on one of the trailheads and explore the trail until they are ready to turn back. No matter how long you decide to hike, this trail will make your pooch bark for joy!