Do you love outdoor activities & adventures in Oregon? We are so lucky to live in a state that gives us so many opportunities to experience the great outdoors. In celebration of Great Outdoors Month, we've put together this two-day itinerary for you to enjoy some of the very best outdoor activities that The Beaver State has to offer. Starting near Grants Pass and ending at Diamond Lake, you'll raft, hike, explore, and enjoy some of the incredible beauty along the Rogue Umpqua National Scenic Byway. You'll love everything about this fun outdoor adventure. Read on to learn more about it and start planning your trip today!
From national parks and campgrounds to waterfalls, canyons, and more, there is so much to love about America’s natural splendor — and June, designated as Great Outdoors Month, is the perfect time to get outside.
If you want to customize this trip based on your starting and ending location, you can use this interactive map to assist.
Go Whitewater Rafting On The Rogue River Near Grants Pass and Gold Hill
This two-day road trip starts with a splash — literally! You'll start your adventure by taking a whitewater rafting trip on the Rogue River near Gold Hill. Without a doubt, this is one of the best rivers in Oregon for rafting and floating.
There are a number of whitewater rafting outfitters in this area. Pick one, choose a trip, and get ready to go down the river.
The Rogue River has all types of water — so there's something for everyone along it. You can go on half or full-day float trips that don't go much above Class III rapids if that's what works for you.
Or, if you're looking for a rafting adventure with a bit more adrenaline, you can find those on the Rogue River, too! There are plenty of opportunities for Class IV and Class V river trips here as well. No matter what you choose, rafting is a great way to start your Oregon Great Outdoors Month adventure!
Stay In This Tiny House In The Woods Near Shady Cove
After a busy first day of rafting on the Rogue, it's time to take a load off and relax. There's no better place to do exactly that than in a woodsy vacation rental with a hot tub, like this one. It's only a thirty-minute drive from rafting!
This Modern Tiny House in the Woods with Hot Tub is only 300 square feet in size, but it has everything that you'll need for a relaxing evening and more.
You can chill in this hot tub with a view and loosen up your muscles after a hard day of paddling on the river.
After the sun sets, you can retire indoors to relax in front of this little fireplace before you ascend the steps to the loft bedroom.
When you wake up in the morning, you'll be treated to spectacular views — and you'll be all rested and ready for day two!
Hike To An Elevated Viewpoint Near McLeod
After breakfast, a short, 15-minute drive will take you to MacGregor Park in McLeod. From there, you can hop on the Viewpoint Mike Trail for a moderately challenging hike with incredible views.
This hike will take you 5.6 miles out and back. It gets a bit rugged at points, but the views you'll see along the way make it worth the effort.
The entire hike, out and back, should take you about three hours to complete. You'll start gaining elevation right away, but remember — it's downhill on the way back!
On the way, you'll see the Rogue River far below.
When you get to the top viewpoint, you'll be amazed by the beauty of Lost Creek Lake below! Take some time up there to relax and take it all in before you head back down.
Check Out Some Waterfalls At Prospect State Scenic Viewpoint
The next stop on your adventure is just another 15 minutes up the road. Do you want to see some waterfalls? The Prospect State Scenic Viewpoint is full of them — and they're quick and easy to get to as well.
The Pearsony Falls Trail is just 1.2 miles long and this beauty is waiting for you at the end of it!
If you don't feel like walking anymore, though, you can view Avenue of the Boulders without any effort. It's visible from the bridge on Mill Creek Drive.
On the other hand, if you're willing to hike a bit more - you can see Barr Creek Falls, too. The trail to it is a mile and a half in length. It's no surprise that the Rogue Umpqua National Scenic Byway is also known as the Highway of Waterfalls!
Relax And Dine On A Patio On Diamond Lake
After two days of rafting, hiking, and waterfalls, you're probably ready to relax a bit! Next, drive 50 minutes north to Diamond Lake Resort on Diamond Lake.
The patio of the restaurant at Diamond Lake Resort is the perfect place to reflect on all of your adventures.
You've likely worked up an appetite, so why not order a burger?
You might also want to sip some coffee, tea, or hot chocolate.
Diamond Lake Resort is a lovely place to watch the sunset over Diamond Lake. What a wonderful two-day road trip in Oregon!
Is this a perfect southern Oregon adventure in the great outdoors or what? We hope you love this itinerary and enjoy adventuring in this part of the state. We are so lucky to have all of these wonderful places right in our backyard. And - this is only the beginning! There are so many amazing places to explore in our great state. Be sure to get out there and experience it all! Have a great summer, everyone!
Looking for more inspiration for Oregon-based road trips? Here's a list of 11 more road trips to consider!
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