Favorite Fall Hikes and Outdoor Adventures in Southern Oregon Region
During the weekends, you’ll find Terence at the Northwest Nature Shop advising about the best in binoculars, bird feeders and field guides, but on the weekdays Terence hits the trails here and far beyond. Here is a list of Terence’s recommended hikes in the fall months:
Russian Wilderness: pick a trail to a lake and enjoy granite spire reflections in sparkling jewels of lakes. For an easy introduction to the charm of the “Russians,” make the short hike around Taylor Lake. Taylor Lake is nestled in an alpine cirque less than a mile from the trailhead. From there, investigate Hogan Lake and for the adventurous try navigating the trail-less hike to Big Blue Lake. Taylor Lake is accessed from a short dirt road a 1/2 mile south of Etna Summit on the Etna-Sawyers Bar Rd. For an easy overnight, check out beautiful Russian Lake at the south end of the range. There are stunning campsites on granite shelves perched above the lake and the South Fork of Russian Creek.
Shasta Valley Wildlife Refuge: although not a hiking area in the classic sense, there are several miles of dirt roads that can be walked or cycled. Three large lakes, beautiful views of Mount Shasta, and a stunning variety of birds make this a must visit in the fall and winter. Be sure to call ahead, (530) 459-3926, to inquire about the refuge’s open hours. Drive to the small town of Montague, then head east from the center of town approximately 1.5 miles to the refuge’s entrance on right.
Deadfall Lake – Mt Eddy: another fall beauty. For a shorter hike, go to the trailhead that begins at the switchback on Road 17 below the pass where the PCT crosses the road. Go to the east side of the lake for a Darlingtonia (Pitcher Plant) fen. The strong of heart can continue to the summit of Mt Eddy for amazing views of Mt Shasta and the Shasta Valley.
Pacific Crest Trail – Mt Ashland: This is always one of my favorites ‘till the snow falls! Quiet beauty, the dried husks of Corn Lily rustling in the fall breeze and the grand trees always make for an enjoyable and memorable trip. Trailhead is at mile 7.5, just below the Mt Ashland Campground and at Grouse Gap. Pick up a free Northwest Nature Shop Trail map for details.
Aspen Butte and Mountain Lakes Wilderness: approach from the South via Clover Creek Trailhead. This is a moderate to strenuous hike to ridge overlooking large Lake Harriette. If time and conditions permit, continue to the top of Aspen Butte for spectacular views of Klamath Basin, Mt McLoughlin, and the high plateau of the Klamath River to the south.
See 100 Hikes in Southern Oregon by Bill Sullivan or Best Hikes of the Marble Mountain and Russian Wilderness by Art Bernstein for more details (both available at Northwest Nature Shop). Stop by the Northwest Nature Shop anytime for more details, maps, and other suggested hikes. See you out there!
154 Oak St.
Ashland, OR. 97520
541-482-3241
