By Jon Tan
Oregon Coast
The Oregon Coast is a landscape of endless wonder, sculpted by wind and wave. Some of the most spectacular scenery in the nation can be seen at the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, the Sea Stacks at Bandon Beach and the Devil's Punch Bowl near Newport. But the Coast is more than beaches, sheer cliffs and lighthouses. It is also home to a harvest of seafood and some of the finest cheeses to be found anywhere.
The Coast also offers endless opportunities for sports enthusiasts, from salmon and steelhead fishing to wildlife watching. Even a winter visit has its special charm with the chance to watch migrating whales from your front row seat near a blazing fireplace.
Portland
Tantamount to Portland's "livability" is its natural setting. Its International Rose Test Garden in Washington Park is only one of more than a dozen major parks and recreation areas. Portland also offers a variety of outdoor activities to meet every taste. Mt. Hood & The Gorge region combines one of the world's greatest rivers with some of the most spectacular mountain scenery to be found in the United States.
The town of Hood River has become the center for wind surfing in the Northwest, while skiers can choose among three locations: Ski Bowl, Timberline and Mount Hood Meadows. Willamette Valley Hazelnuts, hops, mint Christmas trees, oats, grapes, grapes and more grapes:
The Willamette Valley may be the most diverse agricultural region in the world, and an endless series of roadside stands gives visitors the chance to sample this diversity of tastes and flavors. The Valley is probably most famous for its wines, which authorities rank among the finest in the world. Sports enthusiasts can choose among kayaking, river rafting, biking, skiing, snowboarding, hiking and even llama trekking.
And, for covered bridge fans, the valley is a special find with more than three dozen bridges located within the region. The Oregon Shakespeare Festival in Ashland to Crater Lake National Park. The Britt Music Festivals in Jacksonville to the Oregon Caves National Monument.
Southern Oregon
Southern Oregon offers year-round cultural and recreational activities of every type for the visitor. During the winter, the Mt. Ashland Ski Area offers downhill and cross-country skiing with spectacular 360-degree views across the Cascade and Coast Ranges.
Grants Pass, the gateway to the wild and scenic Rogue River, offers rafting, fly fishing, jet boat excursions, antique shops, the Rogue River Loop and the Applegate Trail. The rich farmlands of the Rogue Valley are home to more than a dozen wineries, and the world famous Harry & David pear orchards.
Eastern Oregon
Eastern Oregon can be described with a series of superlatives: the deepest gorge in North America (Hell's Canyon), the largest geological fault in North America (Steens Mountain), and the richest find of prehistoric fossils in the world (the John Day Fossil Beds).
Central Oregon
Central Oregon offer visitors activities ranging from rock climbing, kayaking, and fly fishing to downhill skiing, snow shoeing and dog sledding. The High Desert Museum in Bend is one of the finest natural history museums in the West.
As a business traveler, Jonathan has traveled extensively within America, across Asia and Europe. Last minute travel is the norm for him, you can check out his site called at Last-Minute-Vacation-Guide.com to learn how to secure bargain last minute all inclusive vacations!
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jon_Tan
Sunday, December 6, 2009
Oregon Celebrates - 150 Years of Southern Oregon Vacations!
By Kari O'Brien
Oregon is proud to be celebrating 150 years of Statehood in 2009. There is a fierce sense of independence and a true love of outdoor adventure that thrives in Oregon. The Oregon state motto is "She Flies with Her Own Wings". Oregonians are proud of their natural history and the many scenic wonders that can be visited anywhere in Oregon. The Oregon Trail entered in the Northern corner of the state, but eventually a new trail was blazed into Southern Oregon and the Rogue Valley. The Applegate Trail led the pioneers into a lush, green, and fertile valley full of opportunity and abundance.
The original settlers of the Rogue Valley were the Takilma Indians. They made their homes among the tall evergreen trees and near the fresh water of the Rogue River. Salmon and blackberries were staples in the diet of the Southern Oregon Tribe. Other natural resources were the abundant wildlife, roots, tubers, and berries that grew easily in the perfect climate. Then came other settlers, hunters, trappers, miners and farmers. Once again, the new comers were drawn to the Valley of the Rogue River.
Now in the modern day, along with the continued wealth of native food sources, Southern Oregon showcases unbelievable sites and opportunities to gather family and friends together in the great outdoors. Many trails of the Rogue National Forest lead to secret water holes at the bottom of a cascading mist, or they follow along feeder creeks of the Rogue River through old growth forests. Trails might even circle around the largest Ponderosa Pine Tree in the world! There are rumors and evidence of the Mother Lode along every trail. If the gold fever has struck your family, head out on a hike along the Rogue River waterways and bring your gold pan along for some fun. Outfitters love to show you their favorite spots for striking it rich!
Fishing on the Rogue River has always been a world class affair. Salmon, trout, steelhead, and even deep water sturgeon can be found and caught along the Rogue River. There are many reputable guides in Southern Oregon that offer fishing trips for a small group or family. Along with baiting the hook, your guide will spin many tales and tell a few stories that may have been handed down the trail 150 years ago! Reputable outfitters take pride in pointing out both historical and geographical features that make Southern Oregon so unique.
If your thrill is in adventure, then rest assured you no longer have to cross a river in a covered wagon on a wooden, platform ferry! Oregon has come a long way in 150 years and the whitewater rafting and inflatable kayaking is superb. There are remnants of mining operations, stories from trappers, rustic wilderness lodges, Summer Camps that echo the long ago Native American songs, and old ferry lines no longer used, but still visible to the trained professional. Choose an experienced river rafting outfitter for both a safe and adventurous whitewater trip and you will drift through the timeless canyons that speak to the oldest stories, that can truly paint a picture in your mind of an all but forgotten time.
Oregon has many reasons to celebrate the 150 years of Statehood. The profound beauty, pleasing climate, promise of striking it rich or perhaps catching the big one, and perfectly planned whitewater rafting trips will provide ample opportunity to sample the best of Southern Oregon. Make plans for a Southern Oregon vacation in the Rogue Valley in 2009, and discover why the pioneers chose to settle here. Don't forget to wish Oregon a Happy Birthday while you're at it!
Kari is the owner of O'Brien's Rogue River Rafting. For information on guided Oregon whitewater rafting trips, family raft camps or summer teen raft camps click the following link: Oregon River Rafting. Kari is also the author of the Rogue River Rafting Blog.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kari_O'Brien
Oregon is proud to be celebrating 150 years of Statehood in 2009. There is a fierce sense of independence and a true love of outdoor adventure that thrives in Oregon. The Oregon state motto is "She Flies with Her Own Wings". Oregonians are proud of their natural history and the many scenic wonders that can be visited anywhere in Oregon. The Oregon Trail entered in the Northern corner of the state, but eventually a new trail was blazed into Southern Oregon and the Rogue Valley. The Applegate Trail led the pioneers into a lush, green, and fertile valley full of opportunity and abundance.
The original settlers of the Rogue Valley were the Takilma Indians. They made their homes among the tall evergreen trees and near the fresh water of the Rogue River. Salmon and blackberries were staples in the diet of the Southern Oregon Tribe. Other natural resources were the abundant wildlife, roots, tubers, and berries that grew easily in the perfect climate. Then came other settlers, hunters, trappers, miners and farmers. Once again, the new comers were drawn to the Valley of the Rogue River.
Now in the modern day, along with the continued wealth of native food sources, Southern Oregon showcases unbelievable sites and opportunities to gather family and friends together in the great outdoors. Many trails of the Rogue National Forest lead to secret water holes at the bottom of a cascading mist, or they follow along feeder creeks of the Rogue River through old growth forests. Trails might even circle around the largest Ponderosa Pine Tree in the world! There are rumors and evidence of the Mother Lode along every trail. If the gold fever has struck your family, head out on a hike along the Rogue River waterways and bring your gold pan along for some fun. Outfitters love to show you their favorite spots for striking it rich!
Fishing on the Rogue River has always been a world class affair. Salmon, trout, steelhead, and even deep water sturgeon can be found and caught along the Rogue River. There are many reputable guides in Southern Oregon that offer fishing trips for a small group or family. Along with baiting the hook, your guide will spin many tales and tell a few stories that may have been handed down the trail 150 years ago! Reputable outfitters take pride in pointing out both historical and geographical features that make Southern Oregon so unique.
If your thrill is in adventure, then rest assured you no longer have to cross a river in a covered wagon on a wooden, platform ferry! Oregon has come a long way in 150 years and the whitewater rafting and inflatable kayaking is superb. There are remnants of mining operations, stories from trappers, rustic wilderness lodges, Summer Camps that echo the long ago Native American songs, and old ferry lines no longer used, but still visible to the trained professional. Choose an experienced river rafting outfitter for both a safe and adventurous whitewater trip and you will drift through the timeless canyons that speak to the oldest stories, that can truly paint a picture in your mind of an all but forgotten time.
Oregon has many reasons to celebrate the 150 years of Statehood. The profound beauty, pleasing climate, promise of striking it rich or perhaps catching the big one, and perfectly planned whitewater rafting trips will provide ample opportunity to sample the best of Southern Oregon. Make plans for a Southern Oregon vacation in the Rogue Valley in 2009, and discover why the pioneers chose to settle here. Don't forget to wish Oregon a Happy Birthday while you're at it!
Kari is the owner of O'Brien's Rogue River Rafting. For information on guided Oregon whitewater rafting trips, family raft camps or summer teen raft camps click the following link: Oregon River Rafting. Kari is also the author of the Rogue River Rafting Blog.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kari_O'Brien
Rogue River Rafting - Where to Head By Madawa Gamage
Have you ever gone river rafting? If not, this is something that you should definitely consider doing in the near future because there is nothing else like it.
So you want to go rogue river rafting, and now all you have to do is find a company that you can go through that offers you a package deal. This is the best way to do it, especially if you are just a beginner and have never gone river rafting before, because they will provide you with a guide who will take you on the trip and make sure that you are safe and that everything goes smoothly.
Whether you want to go salmon river rafting or whitewater rafting, here are a few of the best companies that you can go through to get the package deal of your choice.
Noah's Rafting
For the best rogue river rafting trip of your life, you can go through Noah's River Adventures for one. There are a few great reasons why you will want to choose them to go through for rogue river rafting, including that they offer consistent, quality, professional services and customer satisfaction.
They stick to these guidelines and their goal is to make you happy on every rafting trip you head out on. The most important asset they offer to you is their experience. They have more experience to offer than most companies in the field, and they share the history of the area, as well as interesting stories, geological information, bird and wildlife identification and so much more.
Wild Rogue
There is also the Wild Rogue Company, which offers fantastic, one of a kind rogue river rafting adventures. They offer the best wildlife viewing of all the western rivers, sparkling rapids, green forest and historical sites, the ultimate Oregon family camping adventures, trips to fit any skill level or age group, and affordable prices for priceless memories.
Their rogue river rafting adventures will open your eyes to the legendary wildlife in the area, and you will see deer, black bears, river otters, ducks, turtles, bald eagles, and osprey.
These are just two of the many different companies that you can go through if you want to go river rafting, and to ensure that you have the most enjoyable trip you want to take a bit of time to check out what is out there and do a bit of research on each. This way you can figure out what each has to offer and make the best decision on which is going to be right for you.
Author Promoted Sites: Travel Guide, Cheap Ebook Shop.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Madawa_Gamage
So you want to go rogue river rafting, and now all you have to do is find a company that you can go through that offers you a package deal. This is the best way to do it, especially if you are just a beginner and have never gone river rafting before, because they will provide you with a guide who will take you on the trip and make sure that you are safe and that everything goes smoothly.
Whether you want to go salmon river rafting or whitewater rafting, here are a few of the best companies that you can go through to get the package deal of your choice.
Noah's Rafting
For the best rogue river rafting trip of your life, you can go through Noah's River Adventures for one. There are a few great reasons why you will want to choose them to go through for rogue river rafting, including that they offer consistent, quality, professional services and customer satisfaction.
They stick to these guidelines and their goal is to make you happy on every rafting trip you head out on. The most important asset they offer to you is their experience. They have more experience to offer than most companies in the field, and they share the history of the area, as well as interesting stories, geological information, bird and wildlife identification and so much more.
Wild Rogue
There is also the Wild Rogue Company, which offers fantastic, one of a kind rogue river rafting adventures. They offer the best wildlife viewing of all the western rivers, sparkling rapids, green forest and historical sites, the ultimate Oregon family camping adventures, trips to fit any skill level or age group, and affordable prices for priceless memories.
Their rogue river rafting adventures will open your eyes to the legendary wildlife in the area, and you will see deer, black bears, river otters, ducks, turtles, bald eagles, and osprey.
These are just two of the many different companies that you can go through if you want to go river rafting, and to ensure that you have the most enjoyable trip you want to take a bit of time to check out what is out there and do a bit of research on each. This way you can figure out what each has to offer and make the best decision on which is going to be right for you.
Author Promoted Sites: Travel Guide, Cheap Ebook Shop.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Madawa_Gamage
Family Camping Along the Rogue River By Kari O'Brien
Southern Oregon is home to the World Class Rogue River and it is known for extraordinary scenic beauty, excellent climate, and exceptional whitewater rafting. Take your family camping along the Rogue River and the memories will last a lifetime. It is really an easy task to arrange. Simply contact an Outfitter that specializes in rafting and camping and they will take care of the details from rafting gear to camping supplies. The summer months of June, July and August are outstanding for weather, water flow and warmth. Outfitters generally offer specific dates for Family Camping Trips. Select a two, three or four day trip. Once you have chosen the dates, pack your bags and your dream vacation is about to begin. It is that simple.
Family Camps often begin with a detailed orientation and safety talk. This is important especially when traveling with young children or teens. All of our kids are perfect, but sometimes having the rules and boundaries outlined by a professional makes for better communication! Orientation is a great time for kids and adults to ask questions about the trip and what to expect. You will also be fitted for a life jacket or PFD (personal flotation device) during the orientation. Safety talks often include how and when it is safe to swim in the river, what to do if you fall into the water during a rapid, protection from the sun, hydration and fighting fair. Water fights are usually part of the fun experience on the Rogue.
After the Orientation and safety talk, campers will head to the boat ramp for the first day on the water. Oared rafts, paddle rafts and inflatable kayak may be offered for the Family Camp. If you are traveling with very young children, the oared raft is a must. The guides are awesome with kids and play games with them throughout the day. The parents get to sit back, relax and enjoy the scenery. If your family has a couple of teenagers, the paddle raft may be a great opportunity for some team work. Each person paddles under the direction of a guide who is sitting in the rear of the boat. The inflatable kayak is a great choice that offers an amazing ride through the rapids. Many Outfitters will allow your family to trade back and forth between the rafts and kayaks.
Rafting on the Rogue River consists of deep, timeless canyons, exhilarating whitewater rapids and sweeping, downhill slides with nothing more than a riffle of shallow water. There are many beaches full of sand just right for little hands to create the best sand castle ever or beaches full of the perfect pebbles that lend themselves to inter-generational rock skipping contests. Then there are the shorelines with the mouth of a creek meeting the Rogue and that might just be the spot wear your family strikes it rich with a little pay dirt from gold panning!
Food provided by Outfitters along the Rogue River is notorious for both quality and quantity. Breakfast may consist of farm fresh eggs, homegrown bacon and organic vegetables served with peach cobbler or maybe a delightful stack of fluffy, fresh from the griddle blueberry pancakes to start your day. Juice, coffee, tea and campfire cocoa are also in steady supply. Lunches are packed to serve family style along the river. Usually a selection of fresh fruits, vegetables, a variety of salads, sandwiches with meats or cheese and the ever famous freshly baked cookies. Dinner time is a relaxing event. Guides are usually seen cooking up a special dish of salmon fillets, dutch oven chops, grilled burgers with all the fixings or even freshly made lasagna. Cold beverages are served throughout the day. If you have special dietary needs or preferences be sure to discuss them with your Outfitter. Late evening when stories are getting grand, s'mores are simmering over the fire and the constellations are twinkling over head, you just might want to make a wish on a falling star or two with your family.
The Rogue River Guides are some of the best story tellers around. The whole family will be spellbound by tales of miners and settlers, Hollywood film makers and legends of a time that has passed. You will learn amazing facts about the natural world of geology, flora and fauna and history of the Rogue-Siskiyou Mountain Range. Guides take care of all camp set up, cooking, and packing. You should expect your guide to be well trained and knowledgeable about river safety, navigation and great hosts of the Rogue. If you are looking for an Oregon Dream Vacation to engage all members of your family, reconnect and revitalize you from the hurried work and school schedules, Family Camping on the Rogue River will make memories that last a lifetime!
Kari and her husband Tim are the owners of O'Brien's Rogue River Outfitters. For information on guided Oregon whitewater rafting trips, family raft camps or summer teen raft camps click the following link: Rogue River Rafting. Kari is also the author of the Rogue River Rafting Blog.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kari_O'Brien
Family Camps often begin with a detailed orientation and safety talk. This is important especially when traveling with young children or teens. All of our kids are perfect, but sometimes having the rules and boundaries outlined by a professional makes for better communication! Orientation is a great time for kids and adults to ask questions about the trip and what to expect. You will also be fitted for a life jacket or PFD (personal flotation device) during the orientation. Safety talks often include how and when it is safe to swim in the river, what to do if you fall into the water during a rapid, protection from the sun, hydration and fighting fair. Water fights are usually part of the fun experience on the Rogue.
After the Orientation and safety talk, campers will head to the boat ramp for the first day on the water. Oared rafts, paddle rafts and inflatable kayak may be offered for the Family Camp. If you are traveling with very young children, the oared raft is a must. The guides are awesome with kids and play games with them throughout the day. The parents get to sit back, relax and enjoy the scenery. If your family has a couple of teenagers, the paddle raft may be a great opportunity for some team work. Each person paddles under the direction of a guide who is sitting in the rear of the boat. The inflatable kayak is a great choice that offers an amazing ride through the rapids. Many Outfitters will allow your family to trade back and forth between the rafts and kayaks.
Rafting on the Rogue River consists of deep, timeless canyons, exhilarating whitewater rapids and sweeping, downhill slides with nothing more than a riffle of shallow water. There are many beaches full of sand just right for little hands to create the best sand castle ever or beaches full of the perfect pebbles that lend themselves to inter-generational rock skipping contests. Then there are the shorelines with the mouth of a creek meeting the Rogue and that might just be the spot wear your family strikes it rich with a little pay dirt from gold panning!
Food provided by Outfitters along the Rogue River is notorious for both quality and quantity. Breakfast may consist of farm fresh eggs, homegrown bacon and organic vegetables served with peach cobbler or maybe a delightful stack of fluffy, fresh from the griddle blueberry pancakes to start your day. Juice, coffee, tea and campfire cocoa are also in steady supply. Lunches are packed to serve family style along the river. Usually a selection of fresh fruits, vegetables, a variety of salads, sandwiches with meats or cheese and the ever famous freshly baked cookies. Dinner time is a relaxing event. Guides are usually seen cooking up a special dish of salmon fillets, dutch oven chops, grilled burgers with all the fixings or even freshly made lasagna. Cold beverages are served throughout the day. If you have special dietary needs or preferences be sure to discuss them with your Outfitter. Late evening when stories are getting grand, s'mores are simmering over the fire and the constellations are twinkling over head, you just might want to make a wish on a falling star or two with your family.
The Rogue River Guides are some of the best story tellers around. The whole family will be spellbound by tales of miners and settlers, Hollywood film makers and legends of a time that has passed. You will learn amazing facts about the natural world of geology, flora and fauna and history of the Rogue-Siskiyou Mountain Range. Guides take care of all camp set up, cooking, and packing. You should expect your guide to be well trained and knowledgeable about river safety, navigation and great hosts of the Rogue. If you are looking for an Oregon Dream Vacation to engage all members of your family, reconnect and revitalize you from the hurried work and school schedules, Family Camping on the Rogue River will make memories that last a lifetime!
Kari and her husband Tim are the owners of O'Brien's Rogue River Outfitters. For information on guided Oregon whitewater rafting trips, family raft camps or summer teen raft camps click the following link: Rogue River Rafting. Kari is also the author of the Rogue River Rafting Blog.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kari_O'Brien
Hiking Oregon's Rogue River Trail By Joy Henkle
If there is such a thing as magic, it is surely found on southern Oregon's spectacular Rogue River hiking trial. Hikers from all over the world come to experience this protected trail...and yet you will rarely see another hiking group on the trail...true magic. This moderately difficult trail hike is unique because over the course of the four-day experience, you can stay each night in riverside wilderness lodges. Rooms are double occupancy; with hot showers and real beds. Superb family-style dining is the hallmark of each of the lodges.
Contracting through a designated Rogue River outfitter offers an alternative view of the wild & scenic Rogue River Canyon; guided trekking on the Rogue River trail. You get the best of both worlds: trekking through one of the nation's finest river canyons and the comfort of wilderness lodges each night. The outfitter packs your heavy gear in a river raft, provides a wonderful riverside lunch each day and a trail guide to ensure the group's safety. All you need is your daypack, camera, and water bottle.
The Rogue Canyon trail offers an excellent scenic experience as the trial meanders through "enchanted forests," open meadows of wildflowers, and dramatic viewpoints along rocky crags. Black bear, osprey, bald eagle and deer are to be seen throughout the canyon. The wild & scenic section of the Rogue was one of the first river canyons brought under protection of the national wild & scenic rivers act. So, today, there are limits on the numbers of guests who can travel through the canyon each day thus protecting this Oregon natural treasure.
The trail is well maintained and in good condition during the spring and early summer months. Elevation of the trail is below 1,000 feet. Grades are generally mild. On the first and last day of the 4-day hike you will find steeper areas with a number of switchbacks. During the middle of the hike, much of the trail is level or nearly level. A small portion of the trail is cut into rock cliffs with exposed drop-offs. The trail follows the river, sometimes near the river, other times higher up the canyon. The average distance covered each day is 10 miles with the second day being the longest hike at about 15 miles. The daily distance is a moderate walk for a person in good physical condition, provides reasonable time during the day for viewing the surroundings, photographing the incredible scenery, and enjoying a leisurely riverside lunch.
Your historic hiking trip begins at Grave Creek...the start of the wild and scenic section of the famous Rogue River. The first five miles of the trail are quite rocky...so wear appropriate hiking boots. You will finish the first day at Black Bar Lodge...almost a 10-mile day hike.
The second day you will see magnificent views of the river's rapids and come upon several historic sites. Near the end of this day's 15- mile hike, you will find the beautiful Rogue River Ranch. Visitors are welcome to stroll the Ranch's well-maintained grounds and look inside its museum (note, in the summer of 2007 the Ranch was closed but it is expected to open again in 2008). Just a little over a mile from the Ranch is Marial Lodge where you will rest and relax for the evening.
The third day gives you more spectacular views of the river...with a famous look at Mule Creek Canyon and the gorgeous Stair Creek Falls. Experience it all on this day with a cool walk through the "enchanted forest," and even try out the Tate Creek slide. You'll walk about 8.5 miles on this day and end your journey at Clay Hill Lodge surrounded by beautiful views of the Tacoma "still waters."
Your fourth hiking day is short but includes the steepest part of the trial with many switchbacks. Wear long pants to ward off the poison oak that is prevalent along the trial's edge. You'll reach your takeout point by early afternoon (Foster Bar) and, if you are traveling with a Rogue River outfitter, you will enjoy a 2.5 hour scenic drive back to your waiting vehicle at the Galice Resort.
Tips: If you do not own trail boots, it is a good idea to note the following specifications: buy your boots long before the trip. Wear them as much as possible to break them in. Good ankle support is important. A handy trick for insuring foot comfort is carrying a spare set of socks in your daypack. Clothing should be loose fitting and allow for full movement.
Joy Henkle writes on outdoor subjects for several travel websites. She also writes for the blog, Whitewater Rafting Blog She and her husband, Bob Meister, own White Water Warehouse
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Joy_Henkle
Contracting through a designated Rogue River outfitter offers an alternative view of the wild & scenic Rogue River Canyon; guided trekking on the Rogue River trail. You get the best of both worlds: trekking through one of the nation's finest river canyons and the comfort of wilderness lodges each night. The outfitter packs your heavy gear in a river raft, provides a wonderful riverside lunch each day and a trail guide to ensure the group's safety. All you need is your daypack, camera, and water bottle.
The Rogue Canyon trail offers an excellent scenic experience as the trial meanders through "enchanted forests," open meadows of wildflowers, and dramatic viewpoints along rocky crags. Black bear, osprey, bald eagle and deer are to be seen throughout the canyon. The wild & scenic section of the Rogue was one of the first river canyons brought under protection of the national wild & scenic rivers act. So, today, there are limits on the numbers of guests who can travel through the canyon each day thus protecting this Oregon natural treasure.
The trail is well maintained and in good condition during the spring and early summer months. Elevation of the trail is below 1,000 feet. Grades are generally mild. On the first and last day of the 4-day hike you will find steeper areas with a number of switchbacks. During the middle of the hike, much of the trail is level or nearly level. A small portion of the trail is cut into rock cliffs with exposed drop-offs. The trail follows the river, sometimes near the river, other times higher up the canyon. The average distance covered each day is 10 miles with the second day being the longest hike at about 15 miles. The daily distance is a moderate walk for a person in good physical condition, provides reasonable time during the day for viewing the surroundings, photographing the incredible scenery, and enjoying a leisurely riverside lunch.
Your historic hiking trip begins at Grave Creek...the start of the wild and scenic section of the famous Rogue River. The first five miles of the trail are quite rocky...so wear appropriate hiking boots. You will finish the first day at Black Bar Lodge...almost a 10-mile day hike.
The second day you will see magnificent views of the river's rapids and come upon several historic sites. Near the end of this day's 15- mile hike, you will find the beautiful Rogue River Ranch. Visitors are welcome to stroll the Ranch's well-maintained grounds and look inside its museum (note, in the summer of 2007 the Ranch was closed but it is expected to open again in 2008). Just a little over a mile from the Ranch is Marial Lodge where you will rest and relax for the evening.
The third day gives you more spectacular views of the river...with a famous look at Mule Creek Canyon and the gorgeous Stair Creek Falls. Experience it all on this day with a cool walk through the "enchanted forest," and even try out the Tate Creek slide. You'll walk about 8.5 miles on this day and end your journey at Clay Hill Lodge surrounded by beautiful views of the Tacoma "still waters."
Your fourth hiking day is short but includes the steepest part of the trial with many switchbacks. Wear long pants to ward off the poison oak that is prevalent along the trial's edge. You'll reach your takeout point by early afternoon (Foster Bar) and, if you are traveling with a Rogue River outfitter, you will enjoy a 2.5 hour scenic drive back to your waiting vehicle at the Galice Resort.
Tips: If you do not own trail boots, it is a good idea to note the following specifications: buy your boots long before the trip. Wear them as much as possible to break them in. Good ankle support is important. A handy trick for insuring foot comfort is carrying a spare set of socks in your daypack. Clothing should be loose fitting and allow for full movement.
Joy Henkle writes on outdoor subjects for several travel websites. She also writes for the blog, Whitewater Rafting Blog She and her husband, Bob Meister, own White Water Warehouse
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Joy_Henkle
The Oregon Tale: Traveling the State By Jennifer Jordan Platinum Quality Author
Oregon is a place that isn’t known for vacations: it’s not a large tourist attraction or an ideal spring break destination. It, quite simply, isn’t famous. Because of this, it’s one of the most modest of regions. If someone were to ask Oregon if it was a nice state, in its own humble manner it would probably answer, “Well, I’m definitely top 50.”
Despite not being known as a hot spot, Oregon is one of the most beautiful places in the world. Not only does it possess the naturalness of the Northwest - the land is paved with a tapestry of greens and browns - but it also maintains a sense of freshness, as if God is endlessly spraying it with Febreze. A place that quite simply has it all, Oregon is filled with mountains, valleys, rivers, lakes, plains, and even an ocean.
There are few places in Oregon where you won’t find beauty with the exception of the far eastern plains (Oregonians naturally refer to this area as “Idaho”). The state itself is filled with limitless majesty and endless things to do. The following is a list that will merely get you started.
The Enchanted Forest - Just outside of Salem, the Enchanted Forest is one of the most unique amusement parks of all time. In an era where parks are trying to obtain the highest roller coaster or the fastest ride, The Enchanted Forest has stayed true to its roots.
Located in an actual forest, this amusement park is perhaps one of the only ones around that is geared toward younger children: teenagers need not apply. It contains rides and attractions based on fantasy and storybook characters. Among some of the themes featured are Alice in Wonderland, Mother Goose, Humpty Dumpty, the Old Lady who Lived in the Shoe, and Hansel and Gretel. For kids who are a little older, there are also bobsled rides, a haunted house, bumper cars, and water rides.
The Oregon Coast – The Oregon coast isn’t a place where you will find a slug of college party kids or girls aspiring to go wild; instead, this coast isn’t your typical coast. In lieu of beach volleyball and bikinis, this coast has bonfires and clam chowder. The waters are often cold, too cold for swimming on most occasions, and people are just as likely to wear a winter coat as they are a tank top.
Because it is free of the typical coastal behavior, this coast evokes a sense of calmness and sereneness that other beaches can not possess. Going here for twenty minutes makes you feel as if your troubles could drift away, possibly carried off by a hungry seagull who mistook your worries for a piece of bread.
Oregon’s coast stretches for almost 400 miles, from Astoria (oh yes people, home of the Goonies) to Brookings. This vastness provides people with several things to do. From looking at lighthouses to shopping in boutiques, from whale watching to deep sea fishing, the Oregon coast is perfect for those with eclectic tastes. People may find enjoyment taking a scenic drive or staying at a beachfront hotel. Others may find certain attractions - such as the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area and the Sea Lion Caves in Florence - more appealing. No matter what you find to do, you’ll find that the Oregon Coast is a sure, or shore, bet.
Mt. Hood - Mt. Hood might not be the Alps or the Rocky Mountains, but you probably won’t mind. Home to four ski areas - including the only ski area in North America that is open year round - Mt. Hood is filled with volcanic slopes, valleys, and rivers. Perhaps the furthest thing from skiing, fruit growing is also something this region is famous for. From grapes to apples, from blueberries to pears and apricots, the only thing you can’t grow here is bored.
After a day on the slopes or a day of harvest, many travelers find their experience continues at the Columbia River Gorge, right nearby. This is arguably one of the most magnificent places in the nation: it’s as if verses of America the Beautiful were written with this gorge in mind. Containing Multnomah Falls, one of the 77 waterfalls in the area, visitors here can‘t help but ask, “Niagara who?” Six hundred and twenty feet high, there are only three other waterfalls in the country that are higher.
The Willamette Valley - For people who like wine, otherwise known as people who are breathing, the Willamette Valley is a great place to visit. Located roughly 100 miles south of Portland, this valley is filled with rolling green hills, country lanes, and covered bridges. It reminds people of a simpler time of life, when neighbors said hello, people helped each other, and farmers' markets existed instead of Wal-Mart’s.
Three quarters of Oregon’s wine comes from the Willamette Valley: this is a valley known not only for some of the best Oregonian wine, but some of the best wine everywhere. Over 200 wineries are located here, waiting to offer the thirsty traveler a little taste of Oregon in the form of Pinot Noir, Riesling, and Pinot Gris.
The Shakespeare Festival - Where art thou Good Theater? Tis in Oregon The Oregon Shakespeare Festival, located in Southern Oregon, is one of the oldest and largest not-for-profit theaters in the country. Tony Award-winning, this festival operates on an eight and a half month basis, producing eleven shows at a time in three theaters. Annually, this theater is home to over 780 performances and 360,000 patrons. For those who like literature, there is no better place to see Shakespeare’s words come to life.
Oregon is one of the best places to go for a laidback, unique vacation. It offers people a chance to experience a variety of things in an eclectic environment. Simply put, it is an Oregon trail of fun.
Jennifer Jordan is a senior editor for http://www.milleniumlimo.com. Having been to a variety of countries - and Wyoming more time than she can count - her travel column can be found at the Millenium limo website.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jennifer_Jordan
Despite not being known as a hot spot, Oregon is one of the most beautiful places in the world. Not only does it possess the naturalness of the Northwest - the land is paved with a tapestry of greens and browns - but it also maintains a sense of freshness, as if God is endlessly spraying it with Febreze. A place that quite simply has it all, Oregon is filled with mountains, valleys, rivers, lakes, plains, and even an ocean.
There are few places in Oregon where you won’t find beauty with the exception of the far eastern plains (Oregonians naturally refer to this area as “Idaho”). The state itself is filled with limitless majesty and endless things to do. The following is a list that will merely get you started.
The Enchanted Forest - Just outside of Salem, the Enchanted Forest is one of the most unique amusement parks of all time. In an era where parks are trying to obtain the highest roller coaster or the fastest ride, The Enchanted Forest has stayed true to its roots.
Located in an actual forest, this amusement park is perhaps one of the only ones around that is geared toward younger children: teenagers need not apply. It contains rides and attractions based on fantasy and storybook characters. Among some of the themes featured are Alice in Wonderland, Mother Goose, Humpty Dumpty, the Old Lady who Lived in the Shoe, and Hansel and Gretel. For kids who are a little older, there are also bobsled rides, a haunted house, bumper cars, and water rides.
The Oregon Coast – The Oregon coast isn’t a place where you will find a slug of college party kids or girls aspiring to go wild; instead, this coast isn’t your typical coast. In lieu of beach volleyball and bikinis, this coast has bonfires and clam chowder. The waters are often cold, too cold for swimming on most occasions, and people are just as likely to wear a winter coat as they are a tank top.
Because it is free of the typical coastal behavior, this coast evokes a sense of calmness and sereneness that other beaches can not possess. Going here for twenty minutes makes you feel as if your troubles could drift away, possibly carried off by a hungry seagull who mistook your worries for a piece of bread.
Oregon’s coast stretches for almost 400 miles, from Astoria (oh yes people, home of the Goonies) to Brookings. This vastness provides people with several things to do. From looking at lighthouses to shopping in boutiques, from whale watching to deep sea fishing, the Oregon coast is perfect for those with eclectic tastes. People may find enjoyment taking a scenic drive or staying at a beachfront hotel. Others may find certain attractions - such as the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area and the Sea Lion Caves in Florence - more appealing. No matter what you find to do, you’ll find that the Oregon Coast is a sure, or shore, bet.
Mt. Hood - Mt. Hood might not be the Alps or the Rocky Mountains, but you probably won’t mind. Home to four ski areas - including the only ski area in North America that is open year round - Mt. Hood is filled with volcanic slopes, valleys, and rivers. Perhaps the furthest thing from skiing, fruit growing is also something this region is famous for. From grapes to apples, from blueberries to pears and apricots, the only thing you can’t grow here is bored.
After a day on the slopes or a day of harvest, many travelers find their experience continues at the Columbia River Gorge, right nearby. This is arguably one of the most magnificent places in the nation: it’s as if verses of America the Beautiful were written with this gorge in mind. Containing Multnomah Falls, one of the 77 waterfalls in the area, visitors here can‘t help but ask, “Niagara who?” Six hundred and twenty feet high, there are only three other waterfalls in the country that are higher.
The Willamette Valley - For people who like wine, otherwise known as people who are breathing, the Willamette Valley is a great place to visit. Located roughly 100 miles south of Portland, this valley is filled with rolling green hills, country lanes, and covered bridges. It reminds people of a simpler time of life, when neighbors said hello, people helped each other, and farmers' markets existed instead of Wal-Mart’s.
Three quarters of Oregon’s wine comes from the Willamette Valley: this is a valley known not only for some of the best Oregonian wine, but some of the best wine everywhere. Over 200 wineries are located here, waiting to offer the thirsty traveler a little taste of Oregon in the form of Pinot Noir, Riesling, and Pinot Gris.
The Shakespeare Festival - Where art thou Good Theater? Tis in Oregon The Oregon Shakespeare Festival, located in Southern Oregon, is one of the oldest and largest not-for-profit theaters in the country. Tony Award-winning, this festival operates on an eight and a half month basis, producing eleven shows at a time in three theaters. Annually, this theater is home to over 780 performances and 360,000 patrons. For those who like literature, there is no better place to see Shakespeare’s words come to life.
Oregon is one of the best places to go for a laidback, unique vacation. It offers people a chance to experience a variety of things in an eclectic environment. Simply put, it is an Oregon trail of fun.
Jennifer Jordan is a senior editor for http://www.milleniumlimo.com. Having been to a variety of countries - and Wyoming more time than she can count - her travel column can be found at the Millenium limo website.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jennifer_Jordan
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