hiking tours oregon

Rogue River Hiking

Rogue river hiking .

An incredible Oregon adventure! The famous river trail along the Rogue River is considered to be one of the greatest North American hiking trails. Historical sites abound along the Rogue River trail and our trip visits them all. Each footstep is greeted with picturesque vistas of wildlife and nature. You visit glistening waterfalls, cross babbling brooks and gaze upon deep, rugged canyons. On this lodge-to-lodge hiking adventure, there are breathtaking views around every bend.

Imagine hiking through a wilderness with only a light daypack. Our rafts carry your gear leaving you unencumbered and free to discover some of America’s finest wilderness – the Wild Rogue Wilderness. After a rewarding day filled with the fragrance of pine, oak and madrone forests you arrive at a riverside lodge where a hot shower and a comfortable bed await. After settling into your room, we serve scrumptious hors d’oeuvres followed by a delicious dinner. Then there’s time to remember the highlights of the day and share a few tall tales under the stars.

We offer our Rogue River hiking trips in the late spring and early fall (our fall trips are camping vs. lodge-to-lodge). These are times of the year when the air may be a bit chilly for rafting but are ideal for hiking. Spring trips enjoy the abundant wildflowers blooming throughout the canyon. Side creeks run full and waterfalls dance over moss-covered rocks. The forest is alive with the joy of spring’s awakening. Spring or fall, our pace is casual and allows plenty of time to pause and relish the verdant beauty that is everywhere. Along the way, our knowledgeable guides tell you about the history, flora, and fauna of the canyon and forest.

Each day we walk between five and 15 miles on a trail that roughly parallels the river. During the 40-mile hike total elevation drop is just over 200 feet, so the overall hike is very slightly downhill. This hike is suitable for anyone in reasonable shape that can hike 10-15 miles per day.

Because our rafts carry your overnight gear and other trip supplies, you carry only water, an extra layer of clothing and perhaps your camera and binoculars. If you get tired and want a change of pace our raft isn’t far and you can hop aboard to be carried down the river. Each day our raft arrives at the evening’s lodge a bit ahead of the group so your gear is ready to be carried to your private room for the night.

See our Rogue River rafting trip for details about our lodge-to-lodge raft adventure.

Honoring Native People and Lands: Recognizing the significance of our travels through Indigenous territory, we would like to recognize the communities whose lands we visit. It is our hope, in doing so, to honor their legacies, their lives, and their descendants. To learn more about territory acknowledgement and specific information about the Native communities of this region, please visit our Territory Acknowledgement   page.

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Arrive in Merlin OR, Orientation Meeting

Travel to Merlin, Oregon and meet your Team Leader at Morrison's Lodge at 5:45pm PST for a one-hour orientation meeting to answer last-minute questions. You'll also receive your waterproof gear bags. Dinner is on your own.

ACCOMMODATION : Morrison's Lodge (Not Included in trip cost)

MEALS INCLUDED : None

Graves Creek, Black Bar Lodge

On the first day of this Oregon Adventure, our lead guide meets hikers at 8:15 a.m. the morning of the hike at Morrison's Lodge. Once everyone is greeted and, given directions on where to park their vehicles, the lead guide gives a short description of the hike. Hikers then step into a Lodge van and are transported to the hiking starting point: Graves Creek. The first day, we hike about 9.6 miles to Black Bar Lodge. We stop for a riverside buffet lunch along the way, often near the Tyee Rapids camp site. One of the highlights of this Rogue River hiking trip is the many historic sites along the way. Our guides are natural story-tellers and will make your trip more rewarding with their stories about these sites. In the spring there are also dozens of wildflowers in bloom in the Rogue River canyon and viewing them is fascinating.

After lunch we continue along the gentle Rogue River trail to Black Bar Lodge. As you hike, one of our guides provides raft support for the hiking group and upon arrival at Black Bar, will row over and get the group and transport them to the other side of the river. Hikers arrive at Black Bar Lodge late afternoon and the lodge staff assigns double-occupancy cabins. There’s time to freshen up before the evening’s hors d’oeuvres are served. We focus on locally-sourced foods, Oregon wines and beers as well as other beverages. Dinner is generally around 7 pm. Since the lodge is run by a generator, lights go out at 10 pm and back on the next morning at 7 am This makes for great star gazing and a peaceful, quiet sleep.

ACCOMMODATION : Black Bar Lodge

MEALS INCLUDED : L, D

Battle Bar, Marial Lodge

Oregon adventurers wake up and the Black Bar Lodge serves a country breakfast around 8:00 a.m. After that there’s time to pack up before walking back to the river and crossing over to the trail. Today’s hike covers a little less than 15 miles on a gentle trail. Again, some of the fun on the Rogue River trail is the many historic sites along the way and beautiful vistas of the river. After working up a good appetite, we serve the hikers a bountiful riverside lunch, usually at a place known as Battle Bar. Refreshed and re-energized, we continue hiking downriver to Marial Lodge, arriving late afternoon. Again, cabins are assigned, there’s time for a shower or other relaxing and then hors d’oeuvres are served. Dinner is served around the classic round tables of Marial Lodge. After dinner we offer a short hike to enjoy the soft summer light and spectacular views of the river canyon. Evening is a good time for wildlife viewing as well. The power generator is never turned off at this lodge so there is power available all night.

ACCOMMODATION : Marial Lodge

MEALS INCLUDED : B, L, D

Rogue River Ranch, Paradise Lodge

We gently wake you around 7:30 a.m. for breakfast. It’s a casual pace though as today’s hike is just under five miles. Our destination is the Rogue River’s own Paradise Lodge. Since this is such a short hiking day, anyone who wants will head back upriver to the Rogue River Ranch which is a museum and interpretive center. After the visit and imaging what pioneer life in the canyon must have been like, we head back downstream, stopping for lunch at Marial Lodge. Then we continue on to Paradise Lodge. Our Rogue River hikers arrive at Half Moon Bar Lodge by mid-afternoon so there’s plenty of time to enjoy the expansive lawn and maybe have a game of Frisbee or sit and watch the river go by. As the afternoon sun sets hors d’oeuvres are served along with the usual selection of beverages. Then it’s a nice dinner and time to sit on the deck and watch the stars and share stories of the day. Again, there is power all night long at this lodge.

ACCOMMODATION : Half Moon Bar Lodge

Flora Del, Foster Bar, Morrison's Lodge

We wake you a bit earlier today around 7:00 a.m., enjoy a leisurely breakfast and then get back on the Rogue River hiking trail. About 6.5 miles later we reach Flora Del and have lunch. The river canyon has widened here and on a hot day you might enjoy a dip in the river. After lunch, we climb aboard our rafts to be transported to the take-out point, Foster Bar. We try to arrive by early afternoon, around 1:30 or 2:00 pm and then load up into vans to return to Morrison's Lodge. The drive takes about two hours and is a winding and scenic road through the mountains. 

ROW Oregon, LLC, doing business as ROW Adventures is proud to be an Equal Opportunity recreation service provider.  ROW Oregon, LLC operates under special use permit from the Bureau of Land Management, Medford District along with the U.S. Forest Service in Siskiyou National Forest.   All our operations and facilities are operated on a non-discriminatory basis.

MEALS INCLUDED : B, L

Dates & Rates

Supplementary information.

Lodge Hikes: prices are based on double occupancy in the lodges.  Limited rooms are available for groups of 3 if all are willing to share the same room.  These will be available on a first-come, first-served served.  If an odd number of guests, there is a single supplement fee of  $600 for 4-day adventures.

Camp trip - ROW's camp trips provide a similar itinerary to our lodge trips. ROW provides all camping equipment and ROW's guides cook delicious meals along the way!  We are happy to provide a tent for solo travelers at no charge. 

Lodge to Lodge private trips available for 1-23 guests:  Pay for 19 spaces and get the 20th space free.  

TRIP INCLUDES:  

• Services of our talented adventure consultants and professional guides
• Hand-crafted itineraries
• All meals/beverages as indicated in the itinerary (including beer and wine) 
• Lodge or camping accommodations as noted in the itinerary 
• Clean drinking water available at all times
• All rafting/camping gear 
• Specialized equipment for activities such as helmets, paddles, personal flotation devices, etc.
• Private pre-tour orientation meeting
• Transportation to/from river meeting points

DOES NOT INCLUDE:  

• 6% Land and water access fee
• Airfare/transportation to beginning and ending points
• Shuttling your car from launch to take out point if driving 
• Gratuities for guides
• Travel protection plan
• Pre & post-trip hotel reservations
• Items of a personal nature

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• View from the Trail - Stair Creek Falls on the Rogue River - Photo: Pete Wallstrom
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• Rogue River Trail

Rogue River Trail Hiking

Trip length, who it's for.

Wilderness lovers who can hike 5 to 15 miles a day.

GATEWAY CITY

Meeting location.

Hike Oregon’s world famous Rogue River Trail with lodge to lodge comfort, raft support (you only carry a daypack), great meals, Momentum style horderves, and local wine and beer.   The Rogue River is an iconic American classic; one of the world’s great wilderness rivers, and a founding member of the National Wild and Scenic River System. The canyon it creates is classic Pacific Northwest scenery – big trees, tumbling side streams, and cascading waterfalls. Our trip combines old west history, our unique American Wilderness, and the comfort and style of European trekking.

The Rogue River National Recreation Trail cuts through the heart of the Rogue canyon and offers stunning views of the river and unique access to a wilderness playground that is home to a staggering amount of wildlife. The trail is 42 miles of wilderness single-track that is only accessed from the start, the finish, or by river.  Originally built for pack mules supplying miners the trail is now over 100 years old and links areas rich with pioneer history and lore – some of it surviving to this day in the form of remote, river-accessed, wilderness lodges and abandoned historic homesteads.

Each day we hike between 5 and 15 miles on a rolling trail that roughly parallels the river (there is the option to shorten the days by jumping in a raft). There are amazing views of the canyon and opportunities to see bald eagles, osprey, otter, and black bear. Because all your overnight gear is transported by raft to the lodges, you only need to carry a daypack with a jacket, water, and any snacks. At lunch you will meet up with your guides and the rafts at a beautiful riverside beach or bench. Lunches will have shade, chairs, our well-loved lunch spreads, and cold drinks.

In the afternoon we will hike into a wilderness lodge strategically placed along the Rogue River corridor. The availability of lodges is a unique aspect of the Rogue. There are very few places in the world with a system of remote riverside lodges only accessible by boat or trail. It allows for the amazing experience of true wilderness adventure capped off by comfortable and cozy evenings in a remote lodge steeped in pioneer history.

The accommodations are rustic but comfortable and may include cabins or rooms. In each room you’ll find beds made up with fresh linens, bathrooms stocked with plenty of towels and hot water for showers. We will offer ‘Momentum style’ horderves and local wines and beer and then the lodge dinner is served family-style in a dining room or on the deck. Evenings are spent relaxing on the deck with a glass of wine or beer, fishing at the river’s edge, hiking to side creeks, playing games, or enjoying the peace and quiet of a deck chair and a good book.

We offer scheduled Rogue River hiking trips in the spring and fall when temperatures are ideal for hiking, when the canyon is alive with fall colors, and when we have the best chance to see bear. The trip is suitable for anyone in reasonable shape that can hike 10-15 miles per day.  We also offer private hiking trips for charters and groups.

Our Rogue Lodge to Lodge Hiking tour is active, comfortable, one of the most unique ways to experience one of the countries iconic wilderness river canyons, and done with Momentum’s style and attention to detail. The trip is a way to step back in time, into the Pacific Northwest wilderness, and get away from wifi, cell phone chatter, and hectic daily schedules.

Options and Info

Itinerary & mileage.

Each day we hike between 5 and 15 miles on a rolling trail that roughly parallels the river (there is always the option to shorten the days by jumping in a raft). In the afternoons we will hike into a wilderness lodge strategically placed along the Rogue River corridor.... learn more

Why Momentum for Rogue Trail Hiking

• A small company committed to amazing trips & our wild places. • Our hiking trips are small (4 to 12 guests) and like all our river trips they are led by guides with a minimum of 5 years of experience leading trips around the world. Guides who truly enjoy sharing the outdoors and their outdoor experiences with others. • We are well known for our food and we have made our hiking trips euro style with big lunch spreads with cold drinks, shade, and chairs for taking a break from the trail. In the afternoon the guides will prepare a local Momentum appetizer with local wines and beers before dinner is served by the lodge. Read more about our food and what our guests say about it>> • Most importantly - we are friendly, we love what we do, and it shows!

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Recent Testimonials

• 5 --> "We have traveled with many guide companies in the past including Backroads, Country Walkers, REI, Northwest Frontiers Scotland, Mountain Travel Sobek, etc and can honestly say we have never had a guide any better than Andy. He took great care to make everything run smoothly, accommodated us at every turn, and was always cheerful,patient, and friendly (sounds like the Boy Scout Handbook). Above all he is a genuinely nice guy..." - Joel --> "We have traveled with many guide companies in the past including Backroads, Country Walkers, REI, Northwest Frontiers Scotland, Mountain Travel Sobek, etc and can honestly say we have never had a guide any better than Andy. He took great care to make everything run smoothly, accommodated us at every turn, and was always cheerful,patient, and friendly (sounds like the Boy Scout Handbook). Above all he is a genuinely nice guy..." - Joel 1 2 3 4 5 -->
• 5 --> "It was a highlight of my LIFE! The scenery and serenity of the wilderness is a life-changing memory. The guides were interactive, fun, and sincerely cared about us and worked REALLY hard to make the experience the best! Now I want to do more nature adventuring!" - Nancy --> "It was a highlight of my LIFE! The scenery and serenity of the wilderness is a life-changing memory. The guides were interactive, fun, and sincerely cared about us and worked REALLY hard to make the experience the best! Now I want to do more nature adventuring!" - Nancy 1 2 3 4 5 -->
• 5 --> ""I loved walking that far everyday then looking forward to a comfortable evening. Nice way to enjoy the river, and something I probably wouldn't have done without your guidance. Thank you!!"" - Diane --> ""I loved walking that far everyday then looking forward to a comfortable evening. Nice way to enjoy the river, and something I probably wouldn't have done without your guidance. Thank you!!"" - Diane 1 2 3 4 5 -->
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Oregon Nature Trails

Custom oregon nature trails – guided walking and hiking tours through oregon.

Explore nature’s barely discovered paradise by walking Oregon’s trails along the Pacific coastline, through dense temperate rainforest, around volcanic peaks and through the open country of the high prairie where the Wild West is still alive.

The undiscovered American hiking paradise. Oregon is a very undeveloped state, and an area of endless natural beauty. From its towering Cascade mountains to jutting volcanoes, and from a quiet sand and rugged coastline with romantic lighthouses to the endless vistas of high desert country, Oregon offers the picturesque escape into the Wild West that so many outdoor adventure lovers dream about. Join us as we explore ancient forests thick with moss, mushrooms, ferns, unusual birds, wildlife and only us. Hike through canyons, under overhang-cascading waterfalls, then walk to a lake in a glacial valley, discover dinosaur fossils, swim in a cool alpine lake, share the path with true cowboys and watch the sunset over giant crashing waves.

Learn about and take part in America’s pioneer history on a walking and hiking tour through Oregon. In the mid-19th century, thousands of Eastern folks tried their luck on the famous Oregon Trail, looking for a fruitful land of paradise. Their treacherous journey brought them to this amazing state, where signs of their mining, herding, lumber and farming history lives on. Much remains untouched: high mountain wilderness lakes, rough volcanic coastlines with crashing waves, forests of enormous trees, fields of alpine flowers, churning rivers and lazy creeks; all this in one incredible state.

Mount Hood, from Central Oregon

Top Attractions of the Oregon Nature Trails Hiking Tour:

• Wander gorgeous and secluded Pacific beaches without a person in sight.
• Hike small trails through untouched old growth forest and recent lava flows.
• Discover the excitement and history of a wild west past that still exists today.
• Walk a majestic volcano’s rim at Crater Lake National Park, be dwarfed by the tallest trees at Redwood State Park.
• Mt. Hood, Mirror Lake
• Ride to the historical gold-mining town of Sumpter on an original steam engine.
• Oregon Coast Aquarium where Keiko was trained for release.
• Walk the Oregon coastal sand dunes, largest in America.

All Tour Dates and Rates

Route Map: Oregon Hiking Trails, 14 day tour

View the Daily Schedule Itinerary 14 Days / 13 Nights

Dates and Rates

Oregon Nature Trails pricing 2021 – this tour has been combined with Oregon Trail Dreams :

If you have a group of individuals who would like to participate in this tour contact us for a private / custom tour quote.  Private tours can be arranged for any group size, and we can customize the itinerary to match your specific interests.

Prices – 14 days / 13 nights

please contact us for rates

An elk photographed near the Oregon Coast

Interested in reserving this tour? Please contact us for more information!

Oregon Nature Trails – Tour Itinerary (14 days, 13 nights)

This tour schedule will give you an idea of the various locations we visit on this tour. We feature more information about our top attractions and include many of the places you may not have heard of before, giving you a good idea about what you can expect on these guided tours. Read about the various cities and national parks visited on this tour.

Our Accommodations

Stay at  unique hotels in great locations on these tours of the Western USA We assure that your stay is memorable at each location by choosing comfortable hotels with little extras.  For example, many have swimming pools, fitness facilities, internet access and a continental breakfast.  What’s more where possible we choose locations that provide you with access to nearby restaurants, sights and activities.  Our hotels are generally 2 star, a night or two in pleasant rustic accommodations are also included to give you a chance to really experience the west.  From our large city hotels to our personable small town locations this tour offers a wide variety of excellent accommodation.

Discover Oregon on hikes and walks Image Gallery- coming soon! Our image gallery gives you a chance to experience some of our tour locations before you embark on this journey.  Be sure to bring along your camera- there are many chances for that perfect, memorable photograph.  From rugged coastline along the Pacific to the volcanic Cascades mountains these tours give you an opportunity to experience some of the most beautiful locations of the Northwest.  Take a look at our image gallery for inspiration!

All Tour Dates and Rates   Book Your Tour Now

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Canyon Lands

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Wild West Yellowstone

Pacific Northwest Explorer

Oregon Trail Dreams

Southwest Adventures

California Treasures

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Oregon: Rogue River Hiking (Inn-to-Inn) & Rafting for Solo Travelers

“The rivers flow not past, but through us, thrilling, tingling, vibrating every fiber and cell of the substance of our bodies, making them glide and sing.” John Muir (who traveled along the rogue river – hiking most likely – in 1896)

The Rogue River hiking trail in Southern Oregon is one of the few places in the entire world where you can do a multi-day hiking tour, staying in inns, that is raft supported. It is truly unique. And amazing .

This Year’s Trip is Planned Exclusively for Solo Travelers

This trip is designated for Solo Travelers only, which will allow those of you without a travel companion for this trip to join a terrific adventure with similar fabulous travelers. Solo does not mean “single”, although many of our solo travelers will be single. Others have partners or family who just don’t want to travel with them on this type of trip. Although we find that all of our tours generally attract fun travelers who bond together as a group, joining a trip designated for solo travelers assures you will be just like everyone else if you are arriving alone. The great news is there are no additional fees for being solo! Have questions about going solo? Send us a message !

“There were different skill levels among the group and I think the guides did a great job of accommodating this. They also did a good job of helping us all get acquainted and comfortable with each other. This was the first guided tour I have ever taken, and that part of it worked out very well.” 2023 traveler

About the Rogue River

The source of the Rogue River in southwest Oregon is a mountainside spring near Crater Lake in the Cascade Mountains. The river then flows 215 miles and drops a mile in elevation before reaching the Pacific Ocean. The lower Rogue River canyon was one of the original eight river sections protected by Congress’ 1968 Wild and Scenic Rivers Act. The adjacent 40-mile hiking trail takes us through a staggering wilderness playground that offers views of fern-draped grottos, lush forests, narrow canyons of polished rock, beautiful sandy beaches, swimming holes, tumbling side streams, cascading waterfalls, and wildlife such as bald eagles, black bear and river otters.

Rogue River Hiking

Our daily distances on the Rogue River Hiking trip range from 3.5 to 14 miles. The trail is well maintained and uncrowded. While it follows the river and so descends in altitude over the course of our four hiking days, there are ups and downs throughout and one distinct climb on the final day. There are numerous sections cut into a hillside, which might be a little difficult for someone afraid of heights. In general, we find the trail is manageable for those used to hiking – especially since you don’t have to carry much gear and can get in a raft when needed.

Rafting Support, Meals, and Lodges

Each day you can choose to spend portions or the entire day on the raft, which provides a few thrills through rapids and incredible views of the canyon walls from the unusual viewpoint of the river itself. Our guides will transport our gear to the next inn and will prepare a beautiful picnic lunch along the riverbank. We’ll also have opportunities to learn about the Native Americans, pioneers, and miners who populated this area. In the evening we’ll stay at backcountry lodges where you’ll have the opportunity to relax, recharge, and live simply with a few creature comforts – perhaps reading a book on the deck overlooking the river or enjoying a glass of wine or beer, followed by a good meal and the camaraderie of your trip mates.

Your Guides

On public tours, you will have one Zephyr guide who serves as the trip coordinator and will hike with the group. In addition, we will have at least two raft guides and, on larger groups, one local hiking guide. The overall combination provides for an amazing trip full of support. On private tours, you will have the raft support guides and, depending on your group size, a local or Zephyr hiking guide.

The Rogue is the only place in the world we know of where you can enjoy raft-supported hiking in the remote wilderness while spending your nights in comfortable riverside lodges not accessible by roads.

​ Our trips on the Rogue River are supported by Momentum River Expeditions, a licensed and legal permit holder of the US Forest Service and BLM.

Private Tour Info

Want to make this trip even more memorable? Grab your friends and pick a date.

• Cost Per Person: $3,350
• Single Supplement: $0
• Private Tour Minimum: 10
• Activities: Hiking & Rafting
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Guides: To Be Determined , And Local Guides

Past Traveler Tour Rating

Trip highlights.

• Hike Oregon's famous 40-mile Rogue River Trail, with the option to hop into the raft each day
• Stay in comfortable wilderness lodges each night along the trail
• Carry only a daypack while the rest of our gear gets transported down the river via raft
• Take in stunning Pacific Northwest scenery, including towering trees, tumbling streams, and rocky canyons
• Look for wildlife such as bald eagles, osprey, otters, and black bear

Each day we will hike or raft 3.5 - 14 miles along the Rogue River Canyon, a part of the Siskiyou Mountain Range, adding up to 40 miles total for the trip. You can choose which sections to hike or raft, with the guidance of your professional raft and hiking guides. We'll take a midday break to have a raft-supported lunch at a beautiful riverside beach and rest for a bit. Appetizers and dinner will be served either in a lodge dining room or on the deck. Evenings are spent relaxing on the deck with a glass of local wine or beer, playing games, or enjoying the peace and quiet of a deck chair and a good book.

We meet you in Ashland, Oregon the first morning of the trip, get our gear situated into dry bags, and shuttle to Grants Pass, Oregon, along the banks of the Rogue River. We'll meet our raft guides and hold a quick orientation to go over our plan for the next few days. We'll then start our hike into the heart of the Rogue River Canyon. Along the way we'll see beautiful Rainey Falls and pass by the Whiskey Creek Cabin, the oldest remaining mining cabin in the Rogue River Canyon. We'll break for a lovely picnic lunch at a riverside beach before continuing on our way to the Black Bar Lodge, our wilderness lodge for the night. Your guides will prepare a gourmet backcountry meal for tonight's dinner. Hiking distance: 10 miles

Today is our longest hiking day, with amazing views from well above the canyon floor, long stretches of oak forest, and even glades of rain forest filled with greenery. We will pass by historic Battle Bar, site of one of the major battles of the 1855 - 1856 war between the local Native Americans and US soldiers. We can stop in to view the rustic cabin of well-known Western novelist Zane Gray. And we are able to tour the historic Rogue River Ranch, which has been turned into sort of a backcountry museum. It is not uncommon for folks to jump in the raft for part of today's hike and those who do will experience a few fun rapids and loads of breathtaking views of the canyon walls. We'll make our way to Marial Lodge for the night, where the lodge owners will prepare dinner for our group. Hiking distance: 14 miles

Our distance today is the shortest of the trip but it is also the single most beautiful section of the river. You will be hard pressed to decide between hiking or rafting the 3.5 miles of the steep-walled Mule Creek Canyon. If you choose to hike, you can look down on those going through Blossom Bar Rapids in the raft. We'll then check into our accommodations for the night, Paradise Lodge, and have time to relax or go on an optional hike up to a nearby peak. Dinner is in the lodge. Hiking distance: 3.5 miles, plus optional bonus hike

Our last day on the trail takes us through the Huggins Canyon and offers some of the best opportunities to see black bear.  Because we have a long drive home after we reach the trailhead, those wishing to hike the entire distance will depart early (around 7:00 AM) and eat breakfast on the trail. Those opting to raft can get out half way and join the hikers. By early afternoon, we reach the end of the trail, have a picnic lunch, load up our gear in the vans, and shuttle back to civilization (Ashland) for the night. We'll check into our hotel, take a nice hot shower, and celebrate our journey with a special farewell dinner. Hiking distance: 11 miles

This morning we'll enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the hotel before checking out and heading to the airport to catch a flight home or to pick up a rental car to extend your stay.

Trip Accommodations

For the first three nights of our tour, the accommodations are rustic but comfortable and may include cabins or rooms. In each room, you’ll find beds made up with fresh linens, bathrooms stocked with plenty of towels, and hot water for showers.

NIGHT 1 >>  BLACK BAR LODGE  / ROGUE RIVER

After a long day of hiking the Rogue River Trail, we'll be staying in rustic yet comfortable log cabins outfitted with hot showers and comfortable beds and located in the heart of the Rogue Canyon.

NIGHT 2 >> MARIAL LODGE/ ROGUE RIVER

Our lodging tonight offers the comforts of home in the middle of the wilderness with good food, comfortable rooms, and unbeatable scenery.

NIGHT 3 >>  PARADISE LODGE / ROGUE RIVER

Deep in the heart of Oregon's wild and scenic Lower Rogue River, this historic lodge is a perfect place to relax after a day of hiking and rafting. It is quite luxurious, especially considering it cannot be reached by road!

NIGHT 4 >> ASHLAND SPRINGS HOTEL / ASHLAND, OREGON

Built in 1925 and lovingly restored, this downtown landmark is a haven of taste reminiscent of small European hotels and a perfect landing spot after "roughing it" at our river lodges.

Arrival & Departure

We meet you in Ashland, Oregon early on the first day of the trip since we have to shuttle to our put-in point and get our gear sorted before beginning our hike. This means you'll need to arrive the night before. The closest airport is the Rogue Valley International-Medford Airport (airport code: MFR) and is located about 25 minutes from downtown Ashland, an easy shuttle or taxi ride away.  On the last day of the tour, we'll be in Ashland and you can depart at any time, as we have no scheduled activities.

What's Included?

• One Zephyr host accompanies each trip, along with local river guides.
• All of your meals are included. Gratuity for these meals is also included.
• All your transportation is included once you meet your guides on the first day.
• All trail fees and permits are included.
• Rafts and related equipment are included such as dry bags for your personal gear, personal flotation devices (PFD's), etc.
• NOT INCLUDED Beverages, desserts, gratuities to your guides, personal expenses and travel to and from the destination.

Autumn along the Rogue River is beautiful! In September, you can expect temperatures in the 60s or 70s during the day. Though we are expecting sunny skies, we'd still recommend packing rain gear just in case!

Being Off The Grid

All of us have become more and more attached to technology over the years – email, Facebook, smartphones, tablets, wifi anywhere… It is a positive and a negative, a blessing and a curse. One of the joys of this river trip is that, for the most part, you are completely off the grid. No cell phone service, no email, no Facebook. For many, this can be a little disconcerting in the beginning (it is a BIG change), but in the end, you will likely find it a welcome change of pace and very relaxing.

Extending Your Stay

You might consider spending an extra day or two in Ashland, Oregon to catch a play at the Oregon Shakespeare Festival , check out more of the beautiful hiking trails in the area, or even head two hours northeast to breathtaking Crater Lake National Park .

Type of Person Who Will Enjoy This Tour

This trip is for wilderness lovers who are in reasonable shape and can hike 10 - 15 miles per day. For those days where you may not be feeling your best, there is always the option to hop in the raft and ride to our next stopping point.

Changes to Your Itinerary

While everything under “What is Included” will remain the same, the actual restaurants, hotels, and activities listed in our itineraries are subject to modifications. Changes that are out of our control are common – a restaurant closes or loses its awesome chef, a winery changes its visiting hours, a hotel gets remodeled, a road or trail undergoes construction. You are entrusting us to create an outstanding vacation for you and so it is possible we may take the liberty of making necessary changes (even at the last minute, during the guides’ scout trip) to the itinerary that will improve your overall trip experience. If there is any one experience that is going to make or break your trip, please discuss this with us in advance! We will attempt to keep our website itinerary as current as possible and communicate any major changes with you in the weeks prior to the tour.

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Hiking Trips

Guided Hiking Adventures

Hiking has always been an essential element of the OARS experience—we’ve been sharing incredible hikes in remote river canyons with our guests since 1969. We’ve since combined our love of hiking with what we do best—guiding—and have established a full series of guided hiking tours.

Designed for our travelers who regularly hike, run, bike, and lead an active lifestyle, OARS-guided hiking trips are thoughtfully designed to meet the needs and interests of our travelers while featuring the very best a region has to offer with local, knowledgeable guides. And whether it’s a  hiking-intensive rafting trip through Canyonlands National Park or a lodge-to-lodge trek in Peru, you’ll find all the creature comforts and delicious meals you’ve come to expect on every OARS adventure.

Join us on one of our unique hiking tours and we’ll show you the unforgettable nature of an active OARS vacation.

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Patagonia Hiking: Torres del Paine W Trek

Location: Patagonia, Chile Adventure Level: Moderately Challenging Minimum Age: 13

Mystical Peru Lodge Trek

Location: Machu Picchu, Peru Adventure Level: Challenging Minimum Age: 12

Inca Trail Trekking

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Location: Machu Picchu, Peru Adventure Level: Moderate Minimum Age: 10

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Discover the beauty of Desolation Canyon on this combination Green River rafting and Utah hiking adventure with OARS

September 14, 2024 – September 19, 2024

Middle Fork of the Salmon River Hiker – 6 Days

Discover the beauty of Idaho on this combination Middle Fork of the Salmon River rafting and hiking adventure with OARS

June 6, 2025 – June 11, 2025

Once in a lifetime trip. Great way to learn about Peruvian history and culture while experiencing a hike back in time. Excellent food, nice tents, great guide – and the weather even cooperated in December! 50th Birthday Tripper from Colorado Inca Trail Trekking Guest

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Mount Hood Hiking Tours

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Explore the best of Mount Hood on a guided hiking adventure!

Join us at Mount Hood and discover for yourself the magic of the Pacific Northwest. All of our Mount Hood hiking tours are all-inclusive, expert-led, and feature top-of-the-line gear and fantastic meals. Of course we’re biased, but we believe there’s no better way to for avid travelers and hikers to explore Mount Hood than on a Wildland Trekking trip!

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Oregon Caves and Crater Lake National Park Hiking Tour

Dates unscheduled, (contact us to request dates).

Double Booking

Single booking, roommate rebate.

Includes all lodging, all meals, Cave tour, Timberline van shuttles, leaders, trail maps and narratives.

Assembly Point

Medford, or.

Timberline van shuttle is included from Medford to Crater Lake prior to tour and from Oregon Caves to Medford following tour.

Not included: Airline service to Rogue Valley International-Medford Airport; Guide Gratuity.

Meeting Time

Hotel 8:30 am, drop-off time.

“Good people, great scenery, lots of fun! ” Happy Hiker

Crater Lake National Park – Cascade Range

Crater Lake has gained a reputation for its impossibly blue lake – can that really exist?  It was created about 7,700 years ago, when a violent eruption triggered the collapse of a tall peak.  Now it is the deepest lake in the United States, and it is that depth that creates the postcard perfect deep blue hue.   The lake is fed only by rain and snow, making its waters some of the most pure and pristine in the world. Its location in the Cascade Range ensures a variety of terrains to explore on the many trails available in the park.

Explore the Oregon Caves

Close by these mountains is the Siskiyou National Forest, which consists of extremely steep and rugged terrain and is home to five designated Wild and Scenic Rivers.  Due to the area’s unusual geology, climate and fire ecology, some of the most diverse and rare plants have evolved in the area and it has become known as a botanist’s paradise.  Within the forest is a National Monument to preserve a unique cave system, only discovered in 1874, containing twisting passages through marble rock – Oregon Caves .  There we can discover these hidden mountains inside and out.

See Detailed Itinerary Here:

Secure your spot on this summer 2023 guided hiking tour or explore our full tour calendar to find your dream adventure vacation!

Total Distance: 24 miles

Inn highlights.

• Crater Lake Lodge
• The Lodge at Riverside

Timberline Adventures / 214 Mohawk Dr. Boulder, CO 80303 / 1-800-417-2453 or 303-664-8388 / Fax: 303-664-8395

Routes, mileage and accommodations are subject to change due to safety, road/trail conditions, weather and availability.

© 2017 Timberline Adventures. All Rights Reserved. | Web Design by VistaWorks

All-Women Backpacking on the Pacific Crest Trail

June through August

Your tour starts in Portland, OR

Beginner to intermediate

Things to know

Picture this: a premier wilderness trek, summertime dips in the lake, and sleeping under the stars—all in the company of fierce women who love wilderness. This is a 4-day Backpacking 101 through Oregon’s share of the Pacific Crest Trail, a footpath along West Coast’s backbone: Sierra Nevada and Cascade mountains. The complete trail stretches from Mexico to Canada, amounting to 2,650 miles, but you’ll be doing a 30-mile portion of it. You’ll be going right through the Columbia River Gorge, starting from Rainy Lake Trailhead to Eagle Creek Trailhead. After hiking through lush temperate rainforest with views of the Cascades and scents of wildflowers, you’ll set up your own camp and take a relaxing swim in crystal clear waters. Once you’ve felt the thrill of being off-the-grid, you’ll be planning your next backpacking trip before you know it!

Learn backpacking basics with a great team of outdoorsy women

Experience a portion of West Coast’s greatest footpath

Explore verdant rainforest, colorful meadows and mighty peaks

Backpacking is one of the best ways to unwind and get in sync with nature, but there’s a bit of a learning curve if you want to go out on your own. Join an expert guide and like-minded women on this 4-day tour of the Pacific Crest Trail—or rather, just one spectacular part of it—and learn all there is to know about backpacking. Find out about the preparation process, wilderness survival, Leave No Trace principles, camp setup, nutrition on the trail, and so much more.

Your backpacking adventure begins at your guide’s office, where you’ll meet the rest of your team at 8:00 am. You’ll get dropped off at the trailhead, after which it’s just you, your guide and your group in the woods of the Pacific Northwest! Departing from Rainy Lake Trailhead, get ready for a hike to remember! Meals : Lunch and dinner

During the course of your 4-day backpacking trip, you’ll traverse 25-30 trail miles (40-48 km) through lush temperate rainforest of the Pacific Crest Trail. You’ll be going through Columbia River Gorge. Enjoy the views of Mt. Hood, stop and smell the wildflowers, and soak in the lake after a long day of hiking. Let your guides teach you the basics of backpacking: preparation and planning, wilderness survival essentials, Leave No Trace principles, campsite selection and setup, backcountry nutrition, bear-safe food storage methods, and more! This being a summer tour only means one thing: mellowing out at the lake under the stars! Meals : Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Tread the last few miles of the trail until you reach Eagle Creek Trailhead. After a challenging, but infinitely rewarding few days, say goodbye to your team and your guide around 4:00 pm. Meals : Breakfast and lunch

Meet your guide

Few weeks back went on a women’s backpacking trip on the PCT. It was a great learning experience with our guides, Brett and Emily, who were so amazing. Both are such fun and enthusiastic women and they gave us a great overview of back-country backpacking. REA did an awesome job at organizing this whole trip. Julie was very helpful with providing the training plans and answering all the queries that I had. I would highly recommend REA for any hiking or backpacking trips. They are awesome!!

This was a wonderful way to feel more confident backpacking. It was a lot of work and very rewarding. I had Alexis as my guide. She was helpful and full of information. Always watchful if you needed help, there to answer any questions (and we had a lot), connected with each of us. I was a single traveler. I felt very comfortable and included in all aspects of the trip. The portion of the PCT we did was spectacular.

I just completed an all girls trip w/ Misha as my guide , and I can’t say in enough words how fabulous this experience was for me. Misha was experienced w/ a novice group of women, she offered training in areas of navigation, water purification, setting up tents, making our food, and  she even helped us learn how to do a proper bear hang.

I feel like this trip offered me an opportunity   to learn new skills ,and because of the comfort of the group members as a whole, we were able to form a strong bond w/ one another.

I would highly recommend this trip to women looking for a unique, fulfilling and memorable experience !

Just went on an awesome 4-day backpacking trip on the PCT with REA. REA was so helpful in the planning and preparing for the trip – everything from training hike suggestions to a packing list (and they had some gear to borrow if you didn’t have everything!). The guides on the trail were amazing, fun, and knowledgeable – especially Misha! I highly recommend REA for any short or long hiking, backpacking, or climbing trip you might be considering in their area!

I would backpack the PCT or anywhere else with this company again in a heartbeat. Our guide, Lindsey, was completely on top of everything. I never worried about a thing because she had it handled. There were a few hick-ups with the gear the first night and she calmly took care of it. It was a great learning experience. She taught me some new tricks and I am confident to backpack on my own from now on. The trip was amazing!!! This kind of trip attracts a special kind of woman and we all just clicked. I knew I would make new friends on this trip as I went solo, but this was beyond my expectations!! I would totally do this again and again.

Lindsey was a fantastic guide for our PCT Oregon hike. knowledgeable, patient and informative with the basic skills needed to start hiking. Fantastic trip.

Our guides Serena and Morgan were AWESOME! They had so much experience and skills to teach us. They were very accommodating of any special needs medically, dietary, and skill levels. Super time! Recommend for all beginner hikers wanting to challenge themselves and experience true life and freedom.

Guides were amazing. I would recommend hiking with these two women anywhere! Loved the area and the trails. Camp spots were beautiful. Only wish mileage was a little longer.

What you get on this adventure:

• An experienced, local hiking guide with extensive knowledge of the area
• 4 days of backpacking the Pacific Crest Trail
• Transportation to the trailhead and back
• Meals (as indicated in the itinerary)
• Snacks, tea, and coffee
• Group camping gear (water filter, stove and fuel canisters, toilet paper and waste bags, bear canister, travel trowel)
• Backpacking tent
• Water filter
• Trekking poles

What’s not included:

• Transportation to Oregon
• Backpacking sleeping bag and pad
• Guide gratuities — optional

No experience necessary—this is a beginner-friendly backpacking trip through a selected part of the Pacific Crest Trail! Your guides will teach you everything you need to know about backpacking. Still, there are several routes your guides have in mind, some beginner-friendly, some intermediate , so you’re more than welcome to join if you’re looking for a challenge.

Regardless of the specific route, you do need to be in good shape as you’ll be carrying a 40 lb (18 kg) or an even heavier backpack. Make sure you’re physically fit enough to keep up the tempo for four days.

To give you an example, this is what you can expect. Below you’ll find several route options with their total distances and elevation gains over 4 days of backpacking.

• Route 1: 21 miles, +5,519 ft
• Route 2: 25.5 miles, +8,850 ft

Here’s a list of things you need to bring:

Backpacking gear:

• Backpack (55 – 70L capacity)
• Backpacking sleeping bag rated at 20°F – 40°F
• Backpacking sleeping pad
• Packable pillow — inflatable or compressible
• One pair of clean sleeping socks
• Headlamp and extra batteries
• Stuff sacks or waterproof dry bags for gear organization
• Trash compactor bag — used as a waterproof backpack liner
• Warm beanie
• Hiking shirt
• Fleece, down, or synthetic packable jacket — no ski jackets
• Hiking shorts or convertible pant
• Waterproof outer shell jacket and pants
• Lightweight hiking boots or hiking shoes — broken-in, and sturdy enough for trail use
• Hiking socks — 2 pairs
• Underwear and sports bra — 2-3 pairs
• Thin gloves for warmth
• Base layers, top and bottom

Hydration and items for the camp kitchen:

• Water bottles or hydration bladder — at least 2L total
• Additional backup collapsible water storage — an extra 2L for water-scarce sections
• Utensils and dinnerware, including a lightweight mug, plate or bowl, knife, spoon, and fork
• Small lighter

Personal items:

• Personal medications — enough for your trip and two extra days
• Women’s hygienic and urinary products
• Sunscreen — travel size
• SPF-rated lip balm
• Toiletries — travel size
• Hand sanitizer
• Face covering — when riding inside the vans
• Quick-dry camp towel
• Insect repellent

Optional items:

• Lightweight camp shoes with a backstrap — Crocs are a great example
• Backpacking camp chair
• Sleeping bag liner — extra warmth and comfort
• Snacks, candies, and caffeine — for motivation on the trail
• Packable lantern
• Rechargeable battery pack
• Over-the-head bug net
• Bear resistant food-storage canister or sack — can be provided by your guide
• Bandana or neck gaiter
• Emergency shelter — can be provided by your guide
• Extra blister treatment supplies — can be provided by your guide

Your guides will provide:

• Backpacking tent — let your guides know if you’re planning on using your own
• Stove and fuel canisters
• Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
• Tea and coffee
• Bear bag hang kit or bear canister — for storing food away from bears
• Toilet paper and waste bags
• Small travel trowel
• First aid kit

Your guide recommends that you exclusively bring synthetic or wool clothing. You may be asked to help carry some of the group equipment. Dress comfortably and for the weather in clothes you can move in. We suggest bringing clothing appropriate for the season. Layers are best and don’t wear jeans.

Of course! You’ll need to bring your own sleeping bag and pad, and if you don’t have your own, there are plenty of rental companies in Portland—the starting point of your tour. You can rent from LowerGear Rentals , Mountain Shop , Portland Paddle , or any other rental company in Portland. Make sure you make arrangements in time. Contact us if you need any help!

You will spend your nights in tents.

Your guides use 1- and 2-person tents. For the 2-person tents, the internal dimensions are just big enough for 2 standard sleeping pads to fit side by side . You are welcome to use your own tent as well.

Whether or not you’ll have to share a tent depends on a variety of factors—the number of people signed up for a trip, how many people are sharing a tent already, and who is bringing their own tent. Your guides would never suggest strangers share a tent, so participants traveling solo get priority for single tents.

Two of their most common models include MSR Elixir 2 and MSR Hubba Hubba 2.

Your guides will provide a combination of meals cooked from scratch and pre-packaged trail meals and snacks. Upon booking, you will be provided with a waiver where you can notify them of your allergies and dietary restrictions. You are welcome to bring as much of your own food for the trip, as well as any other personal gear related to food preparation.

Group sizes and prices:

• For this all-women backpacking tour along the Pacific Crest Trail, the usual client-to-guide ratio is 10:1.
• It takes a minimum of 3 persons for this tour to run.
• All cost is per person and does not decrease as the group grows. 

Hiking the Pacific Crest Trail can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements.

Min. age requirements:

• If you are older than 18, you’re good to go.
• Minors younger than 18 may be permitted to join the hike on a case-by-case basis, but must be in the presence of a parent or legal guardian.

If your group has hikers under the age of 18 , contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.

To get to Portland, Oregon, most people fly into Portland International Airport (PDX) . From there, you have a 15-minute drive to your guide’s office in Troutdale.

You’ll meet your guide and your fellow backpackers at the guide’s office, 121 E Historic Columbia River Hwy, Troutdale, OR 97060 at 8:00 am on day 1 of the tour. Their office entrance is located below and behind the storefronts in downtown Troutdale. Turn left off the main street immediately after the “Gateway to the Gorge” arch to access the lower parking lot.

57hours is committed to providing safe outdoor adventure experiences. We require all guides using our platform to have a COVID-19 safety plan and to make the details of that plan accessible to travelers. In most cases, group sizes will be reduced, guides will avoid overcrowded locations, and other safety measures will be met depending on the location and activity. 

We also expect clients to respect local regulations and take measures to protect themselves, their guides, and the communities they’re traveling to. For more information on COVID-19 measures in Oregon, please refer to Oregon’s COVID-19 resources and updates .

If you have a fever, sore throat, cough, or any other COVID-19 symptoms (or exposure to a person who has tested positive for COVID-19), your guides ask you to alert them immediately and stay home.

Please contact us if you have any questions or require further information. We are happy to provide you with the most up-to-date information!

Secure your spot for 2025 with a 10% deposit! This tour gets sold out very quickly, but with early-bird booking, you’ll be the first one to know. Pick the month that suits you best and we’ll let you know once the dates are live—don’t risk missing out on your bucket list adventure!

• Only 10% of the total amount should be paid as a deposit upon booking. This deposit is non-refundable, but can be transferred to another 57hours adventure in case the dates don’t suit you by the end of the year.
• Once the set dates for the following season are live, you can confirm your booking by the end of this year by paying another 20% of the total amount.
• The final balance is due 3 months (90 days) prior to departure.

For fixed dates, a 30% deposit to secure your place is due upon booking.  The remaining amount is paid 3 months (90 days) prior to departure. Once the trip is confirmed by the guide, the cancellation policy stated below applies. We highly recommend purchasing travel insurance to protect your trip cost. If the Client cancels the booking…

• More than 30 (thirty) calendar days prior to the start of the trip, Client is entitled to a refund in the amount of 70% (seventy percent) of the total amount of the trip.
• 14-30 (fourteen to thirty) calendar days prior to the start of the trip, Client is entitled to a refund in the amount of 50% (fifty percent) of the total amount of the trip.
• Within 14 (fourteen) calendar days of the start of the trip, Client is entitled to no refund.

Upon booking, your guides will send you an online waiver for yourself and all other members of your party, with a special waiver for participants under the age of 18. Please fill in the waiver at least 1 week in advance of your trip.

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• +1 (503) 715-2175
• [email protected]
• 88220 E Government Camp Loop Rd Government Camp, Or 97028

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Starting at

We are offering the Crosstown Trail, Mirror Lake Trail, or Salmon River. 

Up to 11 Persons

Tour Guide Included

Up to 2 Hours

We are able to offer the Crosstown Trail, Mirror Lake Trail, or Salmon River.

The Mt. Hood National Forest provides us with many wonderful trails, some of which are right out our front door! Witness the beauty of this temperate rain-forest on a story filled Daytime Hiking Tour.

On this guided tour you will discover the rich history of the area, see native birds, find animal tracks & if you’re lucky, you might even get a view of the magnificent Mt. Hood! We require a minimum of 2 people per tour. If you are requesting a solo tour, or to join another tour with other folks, please give us a call to coordinate.

When booking this tour you can add which trail you would like to do in the notes or we will reach out to help you make a decision on which trail would be perfect for you! The most popular trails for our Hiking Tours are Crosstown Trail, Mirror Lake Trail, Twin Lakes Trail, Old Salmon Trail.

Hiking Tour Options

Crosstown trail.

Explore and learn about tour beautiful volcano with a hike on the base of Mt. Hood! The Crosstown Trail is 5.2 miles right out the back door from our shop in Government Camp. This is a wonderful hike year-round and offers a different kind of beauty to discover. We require a minimum of 2 people per tour.

If you are requesting a solo tour, or to join another tour with other folks, please give us a call to coordinate   503-7175-2175.

Old Salmon River Trail

This trail is very kid-friendly. Only 1.9 miles long, it parallels the wild and scenic Salmon River. Although this trail is near the road, the closeness and constant sound of the river, as well as the old-growth features of the forest, make this one of the most outstanding hikes in the Zigzag district.

We require a minimum of 2 people per tour. Please give us a call to coordinate, at 503-7175-2175.

Mirror Lake

Explore this 4.2-mile loop trail near Government Camp, Oregon. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 1 h 55 min to complete.

We require a minimum of 2 people per tour. Please give us a call to coordinate.

Looking for a custom tour or team building event?  We offer private customized tours with delicious food & meeting space options. Call 503-715-2175 to book today!

Expertly Guided 2 Hour Snowshoe Tour, Snowshoes & Poles for each participant

• 2 Hour Watercraft Tours
• Snowshoes & Poles for each participant
• ALL DRIVERS MUST CARRY A VALID DRIVERS LICENCE WHILE ON THE TRAILS. The Forest Service patrols the trails just like the highways.
• Tour reservations must be made and accompanied by an adult with a valid driver's license that is over 21 years old.
• The driver of each snowmobile must be at least 16 years old with a valid driver’s license and weigh at least 100 lbs. Minors are not allowed to drive.
• In order to have a passenger on board drivers must be at least 18 years old.
• Passengers must be at least 8 years old 48" in height. NO EXCEPTIONS!
• Recommended weight limit on a double seat machine is 350 lbs. and drivers will need to weigh more than the passenger. If there is too much weight on the machines, the shocks will be absorbed and it will be very bumpy and uncomfortable for the person riding on the back. It can also cause additional wear and damage to the machines.

What To Bring

Hiking Shoes, Water Bottle, Snacks, Sunglasses and/or Hat, Sun Block, Camera and Warm Layers/Rain Gear (weather dependent).

what to wear

You will want to dress for a day on the snow, just like you were going skiing or snowboarding. We recommend water resistant/waterproof coat, pant, boots, and gloves. If you do not have the proper gear, we do have limited supplies of boots and outerwear items at our shop. We do not rent gloves but we have gloves for sale.

We provide helmets for all trips. If you have your own helmet that you prefer to wear, it must be one that is approved by the Department of Transportation (DOT). You cannot wear a ski or bike helmet while snowmobiling.

• Please meet your Adventure Guide 15 minutes prior to your reservation time at the Mirror Lake Trailhead in the west side of the Skibowl West Parking Area.
• Please check road conditions at tripcheck.com
• Please ensure every participant in your booking has completed their Liability Waivers located at the bottom of your invoice. Looking forward to having you here!

Credit Card Security Deposit

No charges will be seen on your card unless you cause damage to the machine.  Prior to departure and upon return, you will inspect the machines just like you would a car rental.  You will be responsible for any and all damages to the machines while they are in your care.  Other charges may also include late fees, recovery fees, and revenue lost from existing bookings, which are impacted due to a machine being down for repairs.

Otherwise, gratuity is not included in the price of the trip.  It is never expected, but always appreciated by your guide. 

Reservations and Cancellations

Cancellations are strictly held and reservations are guaranteed with a Credit Card Deposit or Payment in Full. All Mt. Hood Outfitter’s activities are conducted regardless of weather conditions, except in extreme circumstances. If Mt Hood Outfitters have to cancel for any reason, you will receive a full refund. Do not be late for your reservation or your booking may be forfeited.

Cancellation within 24 hours of your reservation and “no shows” for any reason, will result in a full forfeiture of the tour or rental cost.

Cancellation or a decrease in the number of participants between 24 and 48 hours of your reservation will result in a forfeiture of 75% of the tour or rental cost.

Cancellation or a decrease in the number of participants between 48 and 72 hours of your reservation will result in a forfeiture of 50% of the tour or rental cost.

Cancellations prior to 72 hours of your reservation will be fully refunded.

Cancellations will be charged to a credit card. Renters are solely responsible for any equipment that is damaged or left unattended. To make changes to your reservation please call 503-715-2175.

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Snowshoe Rentals & Tours

Guides will take you on either the Crosstown or Summit Trail, departing from our store at 88220 E Government Camp Rd.

Combine the benefits of aerobic exercise with the serenity of nature on one of Mt. Hood’s best kept secrets: the easily accessible Cross Country Ski trails!

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Hiking in Central Oregon

You could spend years along hiking trails in Central Oregon and still only scratch the dirt-, sand-, and lava rock-covered surface of what the region has to offer. No matter the season—and whatever the landscape that’s capturing your imagination—you’ll find enough natural wonder to wear your hiking boots out several times over.

In spring, colorful wildflowers cover the meadows outside Prineville and around Steins Pillar—one of the season’s top destinations for hikers and rock climbers alike. Come summer, the Central Cascades open up to hikers and backpackers who marvel at the wilderness area’s snow-capped peaks, alpine lakes, old-growth forest, thundering waterfalls, and otherworldly scenery. Fall means cool-weather outings along the Deschutes River Trail and at popular outposts like the Misery Ridge Trail at Smith Rock State Park, while winter sends hikers east—and into the high desert, where the Oregon Badlands Wilderness enchants with ancient juniper forests and volcanic rock formations.

Wherever you go, just keep in mind that the Central Cascades Wilderness Permit System is impacting the accessibility of (and improving the experience at) several of Central Oregon’s most popular trailheads—so plan ahead before your next trip. And if you’re backpacking, be sure to Take Care Out There and help prevent human-caused wildfires ; before pitching your tent, research any fire restrictions that may be in effect, build your campfire with safety in mind, and ensure your campfire is fully extinguished before heading out.

Here’s how to explore Central Oregon’s nature and plan your next hike—whether heading out for the day or making an overnight adventure of it.

Day Hikes Near Bend, Redmond, and More

All year long, day hiking is one of the most popular outdoor activities around Central Oregon. We could offer dozens of ideas for every season, but here are a few of our favorites—organized by distance so you can find a hike tailored to your free time and skill level.

Big Obsidian Flow: A one-mile interpretive trail at the Newberry National Volcanic Monument passes through the youngest lava flow in Oregon, with minimal elevation gain along the way. Interpretive panels line the trail and explain the natural history behind the 1,300-year-old piles of pumice and obsidian (which resembles black glass) that surround the footpath. Hike the trail between late spring and early fall for the best experience. The trailhead is 50 minutes south of Bend—and 30 minutes northeast of La Pine—via US-97 and Paulina Lake Road. Admission to Newberry National Volcanic Monument is $5 per day (payable at the Newberry Welcome Station or Paulina Visitor Center, both within the Newberry caldera) or free with a Northwest Forest Pass or Interagency Pass.

Tumalo Falls: Funny enough, some of the best views along the Tumalo Falls trail come near the trailhead, where the namesake waterfall can be viewed in all its raging glory. But a 3.8-mile round-trip hike heads to an upper waterfall, gaining a steady, yet gradual 700 feet along the way. While following Tumalo Creek, you’ll spy wildflowers in early summer (including purple penstemon), steep cliffs, rock formations, and a thick forest of ponderosa pine. In winter, the falls get an icy makeover and can be accessed via a five-mile round-trip hike along Tumalo Falls Road (which is gated each winter). It’s easy to see why Tumalo Falls is routinely named one of the best waterfall hikes near Bend, Oregon. The trailhead is a half-hour drive west of Bend via NW Galveston Avenue, Skyliners Road, and Tumalo Falls Road. There is a $5 day-use fee (payable at the trailhead); the site can also be used for free with a Northwest Forest Pass or Interagency Pass. (And since you’re so close to town—just a quick half-hour from downtown Bend—learn more about other things to do in Central Oregon .)

Steins Pillar: This three-season hike is a fun outing anytime between April and October, but a springtime jaunt takes you through meadows of red paintbrush, yellow balsamroot, and other dazzling wildflowers in the midst of a ponderosa pine forest. The 4.5-mile round-trip hike gains a mostly gradual 750 feet along the way before ending at the base of Steins Pillar, a 350-foot column of rhyolite ash. The trailhead is 50 minutes east of Redmond via OR-126 and US-26—or one hour, 15 minutes from Bend via US-20, Powell Butte Road, OR-126, and US-26; no fees are required.

West Metolius River: West of Sisters, this footpath ambles along the banks of the magical Metolius River before ending at Wizard Falls Fish Hatchery—where little ones can learn about the life cycle of fish and feed the residents of the hatchery’s display pond. The hike measures about 5.7 miles round-trip, with just 270 feet of elevation gain, making it a fun outing for the whole family. In spring, keep an eye out for the pink- or purple-chuted Peck’s penstemon; the rare wildflower grows in the forests around Sisters—and nowhere else on Earth. The trailhead is 30 minutes northwest of Sisters—or one hour northwest of Bend—via US-20 and NF-1420; no fees are required.

Backpacking in Central Oregon

With so much backcountry beauty to explore, backpacking is one of Central Oregon’s most popular summertime activities. Here are a few of our favorite overnight outings, organized by distance and geared toward backpackers of different skill and experience levels.

Before setting out, keep a few things in mind: Always let someone know where you’re going, how long you’ll be gone, and whether you’ll be accessible along the way. And if you’re new to backpacking, check (and double-check) your packing list to ensure you’re prepared, and familiarize yourself with trail maps and navigational tools if traversing little-traveled trails with limited signage. Learn more in our blog post about backpacking safety.

Green Lakes basin: Most of us hike the Green Lakes as part of a scenic day hike, but the trail’s 11-mile (round-trip) distance makes it an appealing overnight outing as well. Highlights along the mostly flat trail include the eponymous lakes, views of surrounding Cascade peaks, a raging waterfall, and summertime wildflowers. A few private and semi-private campsites can be found near the trail’s lakes—but note that camping along the lakeshore is not permitted. And if Green Lakes has you curious about other bodies of water in the area, learn more about the lakes of Central Oregon . (Heads up: You’ll need a Central Cascades Wilderness Permit to hike or backpack the Green Lakes trail.)

Obsidian Limited Entry Area: The classic outing for beginning backpackers and weekend warriors alike takes hikers into the heart of the magical Three Sisters Wilderness over the course of 11.5 stunning miles (with about 2,200 feet of elevation gain). Natural wonders along the trail include lava flows, up-close views of South Sister and other Cascade peaks, wildflower blooms in July and August, and the area’s namesake obsidian displays—all of which enchant hearty hikers throughout summer and fall and deliver some of the best backpacking in Central Oregon. (Note that you’ll need a Central Cascades Wilderness Permit to hike or backpack in the Obsidian Limited Entry Area.)

Mill Creek Wilderness Loop: This 27-mile trail (which gains 3,500 feet along the way) offers a fine introduction to the Mill Creek Wilderness , just northeast of Prineville. It passes through a forest of fir and pine, with an up-close look at the residual impacts of a wildfire that occurred in 2000; highlights include ample wildlife viewing (deer are common) alongside looks at the 200-foot-tall Twin Pillars and views of the bubbling Mill Creek.

Three Sisters Loop: If you can’t get enough views of the Three Sisters mountains from the likes of Bend, get a close-up view from along the Three Sisters Loop, a 50-mile trek that gains nearly 6,000 feet while circling the majestic mountains. The hike challenges with regular ascents and inclines, but rewards include epic peak views, ethereal lava flows, glassy mountain lakes, trickling streams, thick forests, and more. (Still need your peak fix? Learn more about the mountains of Central Oregon .)

Explore Nature’s Beauty

From the sagebrush-covered plains of the high desert to the towering pines and majestic mountain peaks, discover the diverse landscape Central Oregon has to offer.

High Desert

Crack in the Ground: Hike into one of Oregon's most unique geologic wonders

The name is perfect, even while it dramatically undersells this geologic wonder in remote southeast Oregon.

It's called Crack in the Ground , a volcanic fissure 70 feet deep and 2 miles long that splits a landscape of sagebrush and juniper about 7 miles north of Christmas Valley.

As the name suggests, it is, basically, a crack in the ground.

But to hike inside feels like entering a subterranean labyrinth, where the air is 20 degrees cooler and the walls are so narrow you can stretch out your arms and touch both sides.

It’s a bucket list hike on par with any of Oregon’s unique wonders, and it feels a lot more intimate.

It’s also a rugged jungle gym for kids or adults — with moments of major challenge. At the same time, it's a fairly short hike with easy ways around the challenging parts.

Most of all, it makes for a fun day in one of Oregon’s most remote regions.

Where is Crack in the Ground?

The hike is a long way from Oregon’s population centers, nestled in remote desert 90 minutes from La Pine and three and a half hours from Eugene.

My suggestion is to set up a road-trip to the region and make this one stop. Nearby highlights include Summer Lake, Hager Mountain and Fort Rock State Park. And, if you’re hungry, the Cowboy Dinner Tree has my vote for Oregon’s best restaurant.

Make sure to peek outside at night. Most of the region is part of the newly-established Oregon Outback International Dark Sky Sanctuary , home to some of the best star-watching in the world.

There are plenty of reasons to visit. Just make sure you stop at Crack in the Ground.

Getting there

The trip really begins in the unincorporated town of Christmas Valley, population 1,313. Just outside of town, turn left at a pointer and follow Crack in the Ground road a bumpy 7.2 miles of washboard gravel to a large and obvious trailhead. It’s a fairly famous place and when I visited over spring break, the parking lot was almost full but there wasn’t an overwhelming number of other hikers.  

The actual hike begins on a wide and dusty trail, leading 0.2 miles through sage and juniper to the mouth of the first and most impressive part of the crack. The trail drops in and down you go, into a hallway of multicolored stone.

The sensation is similar to entering a cave and on hot days the temperature can drop by 20 degrees.

It wasn’t that hot during our visit, and the cool temperatures ensured a layer of icy snow that made hiking slippery in places.

It's often a hazard well into May, according to the Bureau of Land Management. It's only an issue for a short part of the hike — the deepest darkest part of the crack — but it does make things tricky. It wouldn’t be a bad idea to pack a pair of micro spikes during winter, especially if you hike in the morning.

It was still very much worth it, as the hike ducks and climbs past spectacular rock formations, including some that seemed to be hanging just overhead.

Rock scrambling through wormholes

What’s interesting about hiking through the crack is that there are, for lack of a better term, segments.

The trail traverses through the first and most impressive part of the crack before popping back out to a saddle. At this point, there is a bench and the trail splits. One pathway stays above, on the rim of the crack. The other dives back down into the next segment.

This happens about seven times by my count.

It doesn’t take long into the second segment to see why there are options for walking around. The Crack is almost totally blocked, but for a little scramble climb and wormhole. I watched a group of kids and dad make it through, so I tried myself, climbing up the rock and squeezing through a narrow opening.

It was fun. But probably not for everyone.

After another saddle, I entered the third segment of the crack and found an even steeper blockade. This one was so steep that it didn’t look safe to climb on the outside of the rock. However, following some footprints, I squeezed my way into the blockade and wormed my way up through narrow cracks to the top. My arms and legs got nicked up, but again, it was really fun.

The rest of the segments didn’t have any climbs nearly as challenging but the hike stayed just as interesting, taking you up, down and around this geologic oddity way out in the middle of nowhere.

After the seventh segment, there doesn't seem to be any crack left to explore, so you can follow the upper trail back to the beginning of the crack, only this time hiking above.

At one point, I heard voices of a frustrated group below, who had run into the second blockade.

“Don’t try to climb it,” I shouted. “Go up through the middle of it.”

“Um, thank you voice from above!” someone from the group yelled.

Giant juniper

The trail above the crack was nice in its own respect, through sagebrush and some of the largest juniper trees I’ve seen. The air smelled delightful, the way only the desert can after a late March rainfall.

Eventually, we arrived back at the entrance to the first segment and the trail back to the trailhead.

The entire hike is only about 2 miles but seems far longer with all the scrambling. The trek can be as easy or difficult as you want, but it would be easy to get hurt too, either from icy snow or the climbs.

How did the crack form?

There’s a detailed geologic explanation for how Crack in the Ground formed that you can read at bit.ly/3PRs5Jw from the Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries. But the simplest explanation is that thousands of years ago, the nearby Four Craters cinder cones erupted, emptying an underground magma chamber and causing the ground to sink, which caused a rupture or crack along the edge of the valley.  

“Normally, fissures like this one are filled with soil and rock by the processes of erosion and sedimentation,” says the Bureau of Land Management, which manages the site. “However, because it is located in such an arid region, very little filling has occurred and Crack-in-the-Ground exists today nearly as it did shortly after its formation thousands of years ago.”

Zach Urness has been an outdoors reporter in Oregon for 15 years and is host of the Explore Oregon Podcast . Urness is the author of “ Best Hikes with Kids: Oregon ” and “ Hiking Southern Oregon .” He can be reached at [email protected] or (503) 399-6801. Find him on X at @ZachsORoutdoors.