7 Forested Oregon Trails Near Medford and Grants Pass
If you’re looking to explore some beautiful forest trails, the Medford and Grants Pass areas in Oregon offer plenty of options. Whether you want a peaceful walk surrounded by towering trees or a more challenging hike through diverse landscapes, you’ll find trails that fit your style.
These forested trails near Medford and Grants Pass provide a great way for you to connect with nature and enjoy the Pacific Northwest’s unique scenery. No matter your experience level, there’s a trail waiting for you to discover and enjoy fresh air, quiet woods, and scenic views.
Table of Contents
Cathedral Hills Trail System
If you’re near Grants Pass, the Cathedral Hills Trail System is easy to explore. The area offers about 10 miles of trails through 400 acres of Douglas-fir and ponderosa pine forests.
You can hike, bike, or even ride horses here. The trails vary from gentle loops to more challenging terrain, so there’s something for every skill level. Along the way, you’ll catch views of the Rogue Valley and the surrounding mountains.
It’s a great spot to spend a few hours outside without traveling far from town. For more details, check out the Cathedral Hills Trail System information.
📍 GET THE ULTIMATE PNW MAP 🗺️
Get our curated list of the best adventures, things to do, and places to grab a brew loaded onto your maps with just two clicks!
✅ Waterfalls ✅ Hikes ✅ Viewpoints
✅ Craft breweries ✅ National Parks ✅ 1400+ Pins
Rogue River Greenway
If you’re looking for a peaceful walk or bike ride, the Rogue River Greenway is a great choice. The paved trail follows the scenic Rogue River and runs in three segments between Grants Pass and Gold Hill.
You’ll find mostly easy terrain with some gravel sections. The plan is to eventually connect it to the Bear Creek Greenway, creating about 50 miles of continuous trail. It’s perfect for exploring forested areas and riverside views close to Medford and Grants Pass.
Learn more about the Rogue River Greenway trail options and updates at Rogue River Greenway.
Bear Creek Greenway
If you’re looking for an easy, scenic trail near Medford, Bear Creek Greenway is a great pick. It’s a 20-mile paved path that connects Ashland, Talent, Phoenix, Medford, and Central Point. You can bike, run, skate, or just take a relaxing walk along the creek.
The trail stays mostly separated from car traffic and passes through eight parks where you can stop for a break. Along the way, you’ll find benches, picnic spots, and access to local shops and coffee spots.
You’ll enjoy the creekside views and a peaceful natural setting without straying far from town. The trail works well for all skill levels and offers plenty of spots to rest or explore. Learn more about the Bear Creek Greenway trail here.
Dollar Mountain Trails
If you’re near Grants Pass, Dollar Mountain Trails offer a great mix of hiking and mountain biking. You’ll find over 30 miles of purpose-built trails with interesting names like “Cash Flow” and “Debt Collector.”
The trails vary in difficulty, so there’s something for most skill levels. You can enjoy scenic views of the Rogue Valley while exploring loops and connectors between trails.
For a challenge, try the steep grades that test your endurance. The area is still growing, with new loops and reroutes in progress to improve the experience. Check out the Dollar Mountain Trail System for current trail maps and updates.
Skycrest Trailhead
If you’re looking for a short and easy hike near Grants Pass, Skycrest Trail is a solid choice. The loop is about two miles long, taking you through stands of ponderosa pines and offering some nice viewpoints.
In spring, you’ll spot wildflowers along the way. Watch out for ticks, poison oak, and rattlesnakes, though. The trail has a few hills and switchbacks, making it a bit more interesting than just a flat walk.
You can check more details and maps for Skycrest Trailhead near Grants Pass here.
🏨 Need a place to crash nearby?
From rustic cabins to boutique inns—check prices and availability in just a click.
Payette Trail 970
If you’re near Medford or Grants Pass, Payette Trail 970 is an easy pick for a forested adventure. The trail runs along the eastern shore of Applegate Lake, offering peaceful views and a moderate challenge.
You can hike, bike, or even run here without worrying about heavy crowds. The trail is about 4.4 miles long with some elevation gain, perfect for getting a bit of exercise while enjoying nature.
Keep in mind, there aren’t any facilities like water or toilets, so pack what you need. Dogs are welcome off-leash, making it a great spot to bring your furry friend along. Check out more details on the Payette Trail 970 near Jacksonville.
Ti’lomikh Trail
If you’re near Medford or Grants Pass, Ti’lomikh Trail is a great spot to check out. It’s an easy, paved path that runs from Gold Hill to Ti’lomikh Falls, so you can enjoy a relaxing walk or bike ride.
You can stick to the paved trail or take a short detour onto a natural path to get closer to the falls. The trail is generally accessible for wheelchairs and strollers, making it a good option for everyone.
The falls themselves aren’t huge, but the rapids and surrounding river scenery are really peaceful and worth the visit. For more information, see this Ti’lomikh Falls via Gold Hill Bicycle Trail.
