From The Mountains to Coast: Your Summer Road Trip Itinerary for Exploring Southern Oregon

Image credit Joshua Woroniecki

What are your plans this summer? Why not travel across Southern Oregon! Our team has put together an itinerary for you so you can just relax, enjoy the sights and follow your bliss. From serene mountain lakes to a dramatic and rugged coastline, and everything in between, Southern Oregon offers a diverse landscape brimming with natural beauty and adventure. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, history buff, or foodie, our carefully curated road trip plan ensures you’ll experience the best this region has to offer. Pack your bags, fuel up your car, and get ready for an unforgettable journey through one of the Pacific Northwest’s best kept secrets.

Day 1: Crater Lake National Park

Morning:

• Breakfast at Your Hotel or Campsite: Start your day with a nutritious breakfast to fuel your adventure!
• Drive to Crater Lake National Park: Enter the park as early as possible to maximize your day. Begin with a visit to the Steel Visitor Center to get an overview of the park and its history.
• Crater Lake Rim Drive: Start the scenic drive around the rim of Crater Lake. Stop at viewpoints like Watchman Overlook and Cleetwood Cove for stunning views and photo opportunities.

Afternoon:

• Hike Cleetwood Cove Trail: This is the only trail that leads down to the lake itself. Enjoy a swim in the clear blue waters or just relax by the shore. If available, you can also take a boat tour to Wizard Island.
• Picnic Lunch: Pack a picnic and enjoy lunch with a view of the lake. There are many scenic spots along Rim Drive where you can stop and eat.
• Visit the Rim Village: Explore Rim Village, visit the Crater Lake Lodge for a coffee, and check out the Sinnott Memorial Overlook for more spectacular views.

Evening:

• Sunset at Crater Lake: Find a good spot along the rim to watch the sunset over the lake. The colors reflected in the water are breathtaking and make for a memorable end to your day.
• Dinner at Crater Lake Lodge Dining Room: Enjoy a delicious dinner at the Crater Lake Lodge Dining Room, known for its excellent food and charming atmosphere.
• Stay Overnight Near the Park: Spend the night either at the Crater Lake Lodge, Mazama Village Campground, or another nearby accommodation.

Photo credit: Viv & Jill/ flickr

Day 2: Crater Lake to Ashland

Morning:

• Early Breakfast at Your Accommodation: Start your day with a hearty breakfast before heading out.
• Depart for Ashland: Begin the drive to Ashland, which is approximately two hours from Crater Lake. Enjoy the scenic route through the Rogue Valley.
• Stop at Natural Bridge and Rogue River Gorge: On your way to Ashland, take a detour to see these natural wonders. The Rogue River Gorge is a spectacular sight, and the Natural Bridge is a fascinating geological formation.

Afternoon:

• Arrive in Ashland: Check into your accommodation in Ashland. Choose from a variety of options, from quaint bed and breakfasts to luxury hotels.
• Explore Downtown Ashland: Spend the evening exploring downtown Ashland. Walk through Lithia Park, visit some local shops, and enjoy the vibrant arts scene. If you’re there during the Oregon Shakespeare Festival season, consider catching a play.

Evening:

• Dinner in Ashland: Enjoy dinner at one of Ashland’s many excellent restaurants. Larks Home Kitchen Cuisine is a great option, offering farm-to-table dishes in a cozy atmosphere.

Image credit: Google/Unknown

Day 3: Ashland to Jacksonville

Morning:

• Breakfast in Ashland: Start your day right by having the ultimate breakfast at Morning Glory in the heart of Ashland. Right across the street from the Southern Oregon University, this hot spot is well known for its grandmother’s kitchen like ambience and traditional American breakfast. It is a signature Ashland experience not to be missed.
• Drive to Jacksonville: A quick 24-mile drive just southeast of Ashland through forested hillside towns and farmland. Ashland’s Lithia Way turns into Hwy 99 and if you take that route you don’t need to get on the freeway. This allows you to take in some local sights of towns like Talent and Phoenix along the way. You might even want to stop at a crystal shop or local farm stand.
• Walk around downtown: Jacksonville is a charming historical small town which seems to be preserved in time. This relic from the old west was established in the late 1800s. Many of the buildings have not changed since then. Take a walk down the main strip and shop for eclectic trinkets, stop at a café for some fresh brewed coffee, or maybe stumble upon a yard sale down a quaint side street.

Afternoon:

• Take a trolly ride or visit a museum: The Jacksonville Trolley Tour is a 45-minute historic adventure which tours the town 5 times daily. Check their website for days depending on the month you are traveling there. There is also the Beekman House Museum, which is an authentically restored 19^th century home.They offer guided tours which educate the public on the history of Jacksonville and its inhabitants.
• Grab some lunch: A quintessential Jacksonville eatery, the Bella Union Restaurant and Saloon Italian restaurant is a great place to enjoy fresh local food with an Italian flare. Sit on their beautiful patio if it is a nice day, which will greatly enhance your experience.
• Take a hike: Near the Britt Festival Pavilion, the Britt Woods Trail is a fantastic option for a day hike in Jacksonville, offering a mix of natural beauty, historical interest, and scenic views. The trail is approximately 3 miles roundtrip and is considered easy to moderate.

Evening:

• Eat dinner: For an authentic and vibrant Mexican cuisine experience, check out La Fiesta Mexican Restaurant . A down to earth and festive environment, including another beautiful patio which offers views of the town’s historic architecture while surrounded by lush greenery. A wonderful place to start your evening.
• Catch a show at the Britt: The Britt Pavillion is a world-renowned cultural gem and a must-visit destination for anyone who loves outdoor music festivals. With a diverse lineup of shows ranging from rock to jazz to country and more, their season runs all summer long. Artists from all over the globe come to perform here. Enjoy a glass of wine on the hillside and dance the night away.
• Check in for the night: The Jacksonville Inn is the perfect place to stay the night when visiting Jacksonville. This historic location has played host to a colorful cast of characters over the years and is a testament to Oregon’s frontier heritage.

Image Credit: leiserrealestategroup.com

Day4: Jacksonville to Medford to Grants Pass

Morning:

• Breakfast in Jacksonville: Before heading out for your day, stop in at the legendary Goodbean Jacksonville for a quick breakfast of coffee and fresh bagels. This place is part of the original culture of the city. Don’t take too long, because you want to get back on the road with 2 cities to visit today. First, a quick 20 minutes away is Medford, which will get you close to the 5 which is the highway you need to take to Grants Pass.
• Medford Farmers Market: A great spot to experience local culture and fresh produce. Vendors sell everything from organic fruits and vegetables to handmade crafts and artisanal foods. It’s an excellent opportunity to pick up some snacks for the road or a picnic.

Afternoon:

•  Drive and Adventure in Grants Pass: A scenic drive through the Rogue Valley, known for its beautiful landscapes and vineyards. Consider stopping at a local winery for a quick tasting en-route if time permits.
• White-water Rafting on the Rogue River: The Rogue River offers some of the best white-water rafting in the country. You’ll navigate through exciting rapids and enjoy the stunning scenery of the surrounding forest and wildlife. It’s suitable for both beginners and experienced rafters, with different sections of the river catering to various skill levels.

Evening:

• Explore Downtown Grants Pass: Begin your evening walking down Main Street; A charming area with historic buildings, boutique shops, art galleries, and cafes. Then stop by some must visit spots like:

• Rogue Creamery: Famous for its award-winning blue cheese and other dairy products.
• The Haul: A popular local brewery and restaurant with a great selection of craft beers and delicious food.
• Wildlife Images Rehabilitation & Education Center: Located a short drive from downtown, this center offers a chance to see and learn about rescued animals.
• Dinner: Stop in at the Taprock Northwest Grill. Located on the banks of the Rogue River, offering stunning views and a menu featuring local ingredients.
• Check in for the night: A fantastic choice would be The Lodge at Riverside. A riverside hotel with comfortable rooms, an outdoor pool, and complimentary breakfast.

• Image Credits: Recreation.gov

Day 5: Oregon Caves National Monument

• Morning:
• It is Time for Departure Embark on your Journey from Grants Pass to the Oregon Caves National Monument. This trip will take about 1 1/2 hours.
• Once you enter the beautiful town of Cave Junction, make your way down to River Valley Restaurant and enjoy a refreshing cup of coffee or their finest and most popular items like their chicken fried steak, homemade fries, and corn beef hash just to name a few
• Afternoon:
• Let the adventure begin! Indulge in the one of many wonders of Oregon by visiting the Oregon Caves National Monument. Naturally sculpted within the mountains, lie the treasures of the glorious foundations. Seek adventure as you travel through the waves and dips of these monstrous rocks. The Discovery Cave Tour is one of the more popular ones that most people take. Another plus is that it is not that strenuous and is fun for the whole family.
• Onward: Hike the trails that are far and wide or narrow and short! Want something easy? The Cliff Nature Trail is just less than a mile and is fun for beginners or little adventure buddies. Want something more challenging? Big Tree Trail is a three-mile loop that guides you around the forest and gives you the essence of peace. Areb you looking for a strenuous one. Hike one of the toughest trail called Bigelow Lakes Trail which is about a 9 1/2 mile hike engulfed by the trees and luscious grass field, this trail will have you sweating but satisfied with the magnificent views.
• A Platter For All: Take a trip down to Gimmies Grill and enjoy a juicy and savory burger. This hotspot never disappoints. Not in the mood for a burger? That’s okay, they have more. Dive into their mountain-high nachos, fish and chips dishes, or even their salads.
• Evening
• A Wildlife Sanctuary: Wind down this evening with a trip to the Tiger Preservation Center. This nature and wildlife area will give you a new perspective on these furry creatures. There are more than just Tigers. Experience the life of various wildlife critters and you can even get up close to them and snap a couple of pictures!
• Inner Beauty: End your day by checking into Kerbyville Inn and finding a new appreciation for the forests, rose beds, and gardens before you. You’ll get a glorious view right from your window!

Day 6: Grants Pass to Bandon

• Morning:
• Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Ma Mosa’s in Grants Pass. They offer delicious, locally sourced organic meals, perfect for fueling up for the day ahead.
• Start your scenic drive towards Bandon, which takes approximately 3 hours.
• Afternoon:
• Stop in Gold Beach for a lunch break. Enjoy fresh seafood at Barnacle Bistro or grab a quick bite at Port Hole Café.
• Drive along the stunning Oregon Coast, taking in the breathtaking views. Consider short stops at viewpoints along the way, like Cape Blanco for some beautiful coastal scenery.
• Head to Bandon Beach to explore the famous rock formations, such as Face Rock and Wizard’s Hat. Enjoy a leisurely walk on the beach and take in the fresh ocean air.
• Evening:
• Spend some time exploring Old Town Bandon. Check out the charming shops, art galleries, and the Washed Ashore Gallery, which features sculptures made from marine debris.
• Enjoy dinner at Edgewaters, a highly recommended restaurant with beautiful views of the Coquille River. They offer a variety of seafood dishes and other local specialties.
• After dinner, head to the Coquille River Lighthouse. It’s a great spot to watch the sunset and take some stunning photos.
• Check into your accommodation in Bandon. Options range from cozy bed-and-breakfasts like The Inn at Old Town to beachfront hotels like Bandon Beach Motel.

• Image Credits: Reddit

Day 7: Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor

• Morning:
• Get In Your Morning Stretch: Grab your coffee and hike to and near the Oregon Coastline. This 12-mile hike stops at various sandy locations. Take a breather as you admire Mother Nature’s creations. After you cool down from the Pacific breeze continue on your hike and explore the rest of the beaches along the way!
• If you travel North past marker 345 and adventure down to the Natural Bridges you will find a small gravel parking lot with an overview of the ocean and its Natural Bridges. Discover, as the waves hug against the rocks, you will see that this scenic view goes for miles!
• Afternoon:
• Hikes and Beaches and Sites, Oh My: Thunder Rock Cove is another beautiful gem. Gather everyone for a picnic on the trail that takes you right to the beach. Enjoy your day hiking the big rocks between the beaches or dip your toes in to revive your feet after all that walking.
• Evening:
• Divine Relaxation: End the day by horseback riding on the beach. This 1-hour excursion will take you to and from the Whaleshed Beach Resort. Experience the sunset view while your horse takes you on a journey.
• Enjoy the evening by checking into Whaleshead Beach Resort and make your way down to the spa. Work out those kinks and relax as you unwind and rejuvenate.

• Image Credits: Share Oregon

Day 8: Brookings and Harris Beach State Park

• Morning:
• Mosey Down The Coast: Make your way down to Brookings and travel along the Oregon Coast. After you grab a quick bite, Brookings adventures will be waiting for you including the Pacific Oregon Kayak Tour which usually takes about two and a half hours and is a refreshing start to your morning as you wake up with nature’s most mysterious creatures of the water world, like sea lions, pelicans, seals, and even whales!
• Afternoon:
• The Lunch Rush: Visit The Catalyst for a seafood dining experience. This restaurant is right on the beach of Brookings, you can even see (and hear) the seals from the Pier!
• Beachy Vibes: Set up on the beach and have a fun-filled day taking in the ocean, you can even get your tan on! Find calmness in the crashing of the waves and sea critters basking in the sun.
• Evening:
• A Peaceful ending: If you choose to embrace another adventure, check out Harris Beach State Park and discover marine life including the colorful tidepools, bird watching, or the tall rock formations.
• You can end the day by setting up for camp, whether that be by RV, car, or tent! This beach provides campsites for a cozy and cool stay. Watch the sunset while roasting some marshmallows and enjoying the sounds of the sea.

• Image Credits: AAA Oregon/Idaho

Day 9: Gold Beach

• Morning:
• Sea Goblins: Go off-route and hike down to Otter Point State Recreation Site. No signs will be pointing to the area, so, remember to travel at your own risk! Once you reach the sand, you’ll find a community of sea otters swimming, napping, or playing. It is really a cute locality to see!
• What A Treat: If treacherous trails are not your style, fear not! Visit the Rogue River Apple Works which is a cute gift shop about an hour away from Glod Beach. However, it is worth the drive. From the varieties of different jams, apples, and knicnacks this place is quite literally the bee’s knees! Take a little piece of Oregon with you before you end your journey!
• Afternoon:
• Find Out Where It All Started: Visit the Curry Historical Museum and you will come across the inspiring artifacts, unique clothing, and quilts made by those who claimed the land as their home. The ways and works of the indigenous people give us knowledge of the land and how they are fruitful from it. You will learn a lot from this museum and it is definitely a must-see.
• Dinosaurs Ahead: Just a couple miles off from Gold Beach is the Prehistorical Garden. This 300-year-old rainforest has mainly been untouched by humans and is protected by the state of Oregon. Adults and children will guide themselves through the trails and will experience what the world was like millions of years ago. Also, you will come across some cool life-sized dinosaurs!
• Take The Edge Off: At Arch Rock Brewing Company quench your thirst for some of the best beer/cider on the Coast. This brewing company is a small place with the friendliest of people. You will surely be impressed.
• Evening:
• Tasteful In More Than One Way: Spend your last night at one of the most exquisite restaurants, Spinners Seafood Steak and Chop House. From scallops and shrimp to ducks and filets, this place is sure to satisfy you with the perfect ending to your day and endeavor.
• When The Day Is Done: Get a “seaside” room at Pacific Reef Hotel and watch the sunset from your balcony as you relax on their wooden lounge chairs. Take this moment to enjoy the beauty of what the Oregon Coast has to offer. This charming hotel will have you craving for more, but that will inspire you for your next adventure.

Image Credit: Mapquest