Traveling along the Wild and Scenic Rogue River, the Rogue-Coquille Scenic Byway offers beautiful wooded pathways, geologic formations, spectacular views, and all sorts of outdoor activities, such as hunting, fishing, rafting, and boating. The road takes you past old-growth Douglas fir, Port Orford cedar and other coastal flora, then leads you through a narrow Coquille River canyon guarded by high cliffs and waterfalls. Stop by Powers or Gold Beach for a guide to the drive, and when you're high above the Rogue and Illinois Wild and Scenic Rivers, take in the unique difference in the colors of the water as the two rivers merge.

Numerous spots along the byway provide generous vistas of the rivers and surrounding mountains. Take advantage of the pullouts to enjoy a picnic, or take some photos of the surrounding wildlife. Here you'll find animals ranging from bald eagles to river otters. Explore the area on foot along one of the many well-developed trails situated throughout the Siskiyou National Forest.

Don't miss Coquille River Falls, one of the most consistent waterfalls in Oregon. Situated in two tiers, the upper half drops 45 feet over a wide, uniform ledge. The lower tier drops the remaining 65 feet in a pair of horsetails. After exploring the area, set up your gear at one of the several campgrounds situated throughout the forest and along the byway.

To get a first-hand feel for what Rogue River trips are like, go off the road a bit to stop in Foster Bar. If you're a fisherman, rafter or jet boater, this is one of the more popular launch spots for your water activities. But if you're looking for a quiet picnic spot away from the crowds, the Illahe Campground provides a pleasant spot for a picnic or even a few days of camping.

As you leave the Rogue River area, drive the gentle climb through Agness Pass, which provides more stunning views of the Rogue River and its surrounding mountains. The Coquille River stays closer to the highway and winds its way through a narrow canyon rimmed with towering cliffs. Nearby is Elk Creek Falls, which plunges 120 feet over basalt cliffs on its way to join the Coquille River. A five-minute walk will take you to a viewing area near the base of the falls, where you can better enjoy the cascade of water. Leaving the falls and traveling a few miles downstream, the mountain canyon suddenly opens up into the Coquille Valley, characterized by rolling hills, sheep pastures, clumps of forest, and scattered farmhouses.

Winding along rivers and through a mountain coastal community, the Rogue Coquille Byway provides a unique forest and inland coastal setting. With the wildlife preserved in their natural settings, some areas of the byway seem untouched by man, but have been home to the people who live there for over a century.

Helpful Links

Points of Interest Along The Way

Customizable Directions