Trip Report

Three hikers departed Friday under brilliant blue sky for a four-day forty-mile backpack down the wild Rogue River Trail. They found the tread well graded and blowdown free although at times it seemed to climb as much as descend the river. Lining both sides were spectacular patches of dozens of wildflower species in full bloom alternating with deep green poison oak which leaned uncomfortably across the track.

After a few miles, the hikers lunched and explored the historic and nearly intact prospector's homestead at Whiskey Creek. A few more afternoon miles brought them to the night's campsite nestled next to swirling Bunker Creek. An Osprey provided evening entertainment as it caught three fish in the pools below camp and delivered them to its nest in a tree above.

The group was to follow this pattern for the rest of the trip with clear cool morning walks through oak forest and flower draped meadows followed by warm, sweaty afternoons which cooled into sunset breezes. On day two, they camped on a warm sand bar in front of the historic Rogue River Ranch which they spent some time exploring the next morning. It has many well preserved 1800's buildings including the original home, blacksmith shop, and workshop with chapel above.

On day three, the hikers passed intriguing horseshoe bends and deep chutes highlighted by a stunning double falls in the midst of a serpentine canyon. That night they camped at Tacoma, a wide grassy bench along a slow stretch of the river, and took a bracing soak in the chilling river. The last day passed much to quickly as the final, beautiful trail miles drifted away underfoot but also much to slowly as the crew dreamed of giant double cheese burgers and blueberry cobbler waiting at the Cougar Inn. Mission accomplished.