Mountain of the Rogue loop route

Overview
Mountain of the Rogue may be the best trail system right off a major interstate, just minutes from I-5. The network is designed to provide something for everyone, with fun, flowy trails down low and rocky, techy trails up high. You can choose your own adventure depending on your skill level, timeframe, and desire for climbing. If you’re with the family then multiple laps down low is your game; if you want to test your ability to navigate narrow, exposed tread then you’ll want to head to the upper routes. Most of the trails are directional which means that even if the trailhead is crowded you’re unlikely to encounter many people once you start climbing. Afterwards, food and drinks are mere minutes away in Rogue River, as well as a quick dip in the namesake waterway.

Route Details
A parking area with maps and restrooms greet you at the base. To do the complete system, head uphill in a counter-clockwise direction. All the switchbacks are designed with riders in mind so you’ll be able to make good time. The grades are mellow down low but get steeper about halfway up the hill.

Start with a warm-up descent down the new Sasquatch Trail. While Oregon’s most famous mythical denizen has not been spotted nearby, a quick glance at the trail layout on the map reveals a startling likeness to Bigfoot in his most famous photograph. The trail boasts endless rollers and well-built berms, allowing you to get in the gravity groove.

You’ll drop almost to the bottom of the climb so up you go again, this time heading past the turn to Sasquatch and instead up through Dark Side, whose thick canopy will have your eyes quickly adjusting. Wrapping just below the summit you have the option to hit the peak for a panoramic view while you catch breath. Adjust your helmet, pull up your pads, and open your suspension because you’re about to drop all the way back down to the trailhead.

Armbar is the first trail you’ll descend and it demands all of your attention. The narrow tread is punctuated with burly rock moves that seemly appear out of nowhere when you’re moving at speed. Every move is possible but not without consequence so take the first run to get to know the lines.

The trail flows seamlessly into Breakdown and while the tech eases slightly the fun keeps going. Well-graded turns beg you to let off the brakes and smooth moves are rewarded. Just as your legs and arms start to tire you hit Paydirt, an easy, flowing trail that puts your mind at ease as you pump and roll all the way to the trailhead.

Be sure to check the map when you arrive as new trails are planned for 2018

Riding Season
Thanks to its sun-facing exposure and drier Southern Oregon climate the trails are frequently open year-round. Avoid using the trails during the freeze-thaw cycle and after heavy rains, of course, and know that the summer months can be toasty.

The poison oak is quite healthy, especially in the late spring and early summer. Stay on the trail and bring some post-ride skin-scrub.