Hiking is a favorite Southern Oregon activity, beloved by locals and visitors alike. Because nothing compares to the call of the fresh air, beautiful landscapes and unique terrain. Even on the days when the sun gives way to rain, hiking Southern Oregon trails makes you feel refreshed and renewed.
There are numerous hiking options throughout the Rogue Valley, and many are a stone’s throw from Phoenix. The Soda Mountain Wilderness, located near Ashland, is a protected wilderness area inside the Cascade–Siskiyou National Monument. It’s easy to reach from Phoenix, and one of our favorite hikes.
Blazing A New Trail
Soda Mountain is a 4-mile out and back trail and is accessible year-round. Beautiful wildflowers dot the path and it’s a moderately rated hike. Dogs and horses are also able to travel the trail.
This hike is located along the Pacific Crest Trail. You’ll gain a considerable amount of elevation during the hike, but it’s worth every step. At the top of the summit, enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Shasta, Mount Ashland, Pilot Rock and more. Bring a camera to document every amazing angle.
The Soda Mountain Wilderness is a biological and geological oasis nestled in the mountains southeast of Ashland. The heart of the wilderness is the 5,720-foot Boccard Point, where the basin meets three mountain ranges. The Klamath Range extends from the south, the Siskiyou Range from the west, and the Cascade Range to the north.
How To Get There
- Take exit 14 on I-5 and go east on Highway 66 toward Klamath Falls for 14.5 miles.
- Turn right on Soda Mountain Road 39-3E-32.3 and follow for 3.7 miles.
- When you reach a large set of power lines, park on the right just beyond them.
- Look for small brown posts marking the Pacific Crest Trail.
Directions to the trail
Go south on the Pacific Crest Trail for 1.1 miles, and turn left when you arrive at a trail junction. Follow this trail up switchbacks for 0.2 miles until you come to a steep dirt road. Turn right and continue for 0.8 miles to reach the summit. If you’re hiking during the summer, the fire lookout may be staffed.
Start Your Hiking Journey
The beauty of the Soda Mountain Wilderness beckons you to start a new adventure. Make new memories, and discover the diversity of this wild and welcoming trail.
Photo: A Siskiyou Mountain Club trail crew hikes along a section of trail in the Soda Mountain Wilderness.