Lower Rogue River Trail

This is a true backcountry singletrack, river trail. Expect fun quick descents, roots, stream crossings, steep punchy climbs, hike-a-bikes, bridges, and patches of poison oak. The trail contours, dives, and climbs along the north bank of the famous Rogue River. Look for black bears, salmon, ospreys, eagles and other wildlife as you trek along the river.

Despite being a river trail, there is not a lot of access to the Rogue River. Plenty of creek crossings to water the dog and yourself however (even in late summer) Historic access to the river (on public land) is at Twin Sisters, Painted Rock Creek, Lower Auberry Riffle, and Dog Creek. The trail crosses several pieces of private land. Its important to stay on the trail and respect people's privacy. Access to the river is not possible through these private lands.

Make sure your bike is in good working order. Unfixable mechanicals back here can sign you up for an epic hike-a-bike. During the summer months you can maybe flag down a private boat at one of the public river accesses but other than that (and especially the winter season) you will have the backcountry blues.

Tree blown down can be an issue along this trail in the off-season. Don't think you can get a late start in winter and make it before dark.

Pro-Tip: The bridge at Slide Creek is gone so you'll be getting your feet wet during the rainy season on this crossing.

Access Info

Important Note Although the U.S. Forest Service has a public easement for the Lower Rogue River Trail through the private property in Agness, the USFS does not hold any land for trailhead facilities. The community of Agness has graciously granted trailhead parking at the Agness Community Building. It's important to read information about parking and trail use at the kiosk located in the parking lot of the Community Building.

Please respect the privacy of the residences around the trailhead in Agness. The folks at the Lucas Lodge are very friendly but also very busy providing services for their guests so keep the noise down and your pets under control while you get your shizots together before or after riding. Nothing will ruin our privileges at the Community Building faster than inconsiderate behavior that impacts the local residents and businesses. There are no toilet facilities in Agness at this time. USFS is working on the issue.

It's very important not to block the Fire Truck at the Community Building!!! The firefighters will move your rig with their D9 Cat if its in the way so start parking opposite the Trailhead Kiosk.


Accessing the Agness Trailhead:
From Gold Beach take Jerry's Flat Road (aka south bank Rogue River Rd/ aka Agness Road/aka Thirty-Three Road (33) and continue all the way to Agness (south bank). You'll pass Agness RV Park and Cougar Lane Store (load up on snacks here if needed). Continue up river until you pass over the Rogue River on the Coon Rock Bridge. Soon after crossing the bridge you'll make a hard left hand turn and head back down river along a narrow road with turnouts. You will roll into Agness (north bank) and make a right onto Cougar Lane at the post office. Go about a 1/4 mile and park at the Agness Community Building across from the Lucas Lodge.

Accessing the downstream trailhead at Little Silver Creek:
From Gold Beach take Jerry's Flat Road (aka south bank Rogue River Rd/ aka Agness Road/aka Thirty-Three Road (33 Rd.)) and continue to the bridge over the Rogue River at Lobster Creek. Cross over to the north side of the river and immediately make a right onto the 3533 road (aka the Silver Creek Rd) and continue 5 miles to the trailhead. There are signs at the major intersections to keep you on track if you don't have off-line navigation. Most folks lose cell reception at the Lobster Creek bridge. You've been warned.

Disclaimer

This trail has exposure and high-consequence downslope areas.