As summer approaches, it’s time to take the bicycles out of the garage. Dust off the seats, clean the handles and shine those rims, because these four easy-going Rogue Valley trails eagerly await.
Phoenix is the launchpad for many fun local adventures, including wine tasting, shopping, restaurant hopping and much more. It’s also a great jumping off point if you plan to explore the Rogue Valley by bike.
Some of the best local biking trails are located nearby and are an exhilarating way to discover our beautiful valley.
Bear Creek Greenway
Travel the Bear Creek Greenway starting in Phoenix, Oregon. Head south toward Talent and Ashland, or north toward Medford and Central Point.
The paved pathway travels along Bear Creek for 20 miles from the Ashland Dog Park to Dean Creek Road in Central Point. Along the way are numerous points of interest and access to the trail. And Phoenix is in the middle of it all, offering an easy starting point.
Central Ashland Bikepath
The Central Ashland Bikepath is a 1.8 mile paved trail that runs along the Central Oregon and Pacific Railroad. It goes from Tolman Creek Road to 6th Street, passing through Garfield and Railroad parks.
If you want to stop for an outdoor meal, there are picnic areas and restrooms along the way. You can also make a side trip to Hunter Park, which features eight tennis courts and two baseball fields. Perfect for an afternoon full of outdoor activities.
If you arrive by car, parking for the bike path is located at Garfield Park on California Street and Hunter Park on Hunter Court.
Lithia Park Trail
The Lithia Park Trail is just half a mile long, but the park has an interesting history. It’s listed on the National Register of Historic Places and has been Ashland’s pride and joy for over 100 years.
Landscape architect John McLaren — designer of San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park — created the park in the tradition of Frederick Law Olmsted, who built Central Park in New York City. So when you arrive, it’s a feast for the senses. You’re greeted with beautiful plants and water features, including the towering Tree of Heaven.
If you explore the park by foot, park headquarters provides a walking tour map that shows the location of the park’s many assets, including trees, fountains and terraces.
Rogue River Greenway
This trail is the furthest out, but worth the trip. Beginning in Rogue River, this 3.9 mile trail has gorgeous scenery. From the south end of town, the trail travels southeast along the northern bank of the river.
At the eastern part of the trail, you’ll go through the Valley of the Rogue State Park. After a nice bike ride, it’s a beautiful place to rest, picnic with the family, and enjoy the views.
Parking is available in Fleming Memorial Park. From the park, bike lanes and sidewalks along Depot Street Bridge allow you to cross to the other side of the river and access the greenway. There’s also parking in the Valley of the Rogue State Park.
Beautiful Bike Trails
After a long and cold winter, nothing feels better than stretching your legs with a healthy bike ride. Southern Oregon has numerous trails which showcase the beauty of the region and are fun to explore during this marvelous time of year.