Douglas County, Oregon, and the surrounding area, is an outdoor enthusiast paradise! Lush with surrounding greenery and wildlife, the timber capital of the world is without a doubt the center of the universe for the hiker, regardless of skill or ability. If you are ever in this pristine part of the country and have some free time, the following guide to Douglas County’s best hiking trails will assure that your experience in “God’s Country,” is memorable.
1. Susan Creek Falls- This wonder of the forest is accented by the Susan Creek Falls that runs down the surrounding terrain and rocks with majestic power and wonder. History is revisited a little ways down from the falls as Indian Mounds presents itself. This was the site where young Native American boys are believed to have performed rituals that ushered them into manhood. To arrive at Susan Creek, take Exit 124 off I-5, and take Highway 138 for 28 miles. There are two parking options. The first place is on the north side of Highway 138, which is adjacent next to the falls. The other one is on the south side of the falls. The trail, including the portion after the falls and ending at Indian Mounds is 1.2 miles of moderate grade and difficulty.
2. Toketee Falls- When you see the Toketee Falls for the first time, you might hyperventilate, so bring someone with you that knows “Mouth to mouth.” Seriously, this place is a living paradise. This 0.7 hike is great for families with young kids or elderly family members, as it is an easy trail to navigate, but scenic in its entirety. To get there, Take Highway 138. In between milepost 58 and 59 and take Toketee-Rigdon road 34 northbound. Bear left and you will run right into the parking area next to the beginning of the trail.
3. Fern Falls Trail- This trail winds through tall Douglas Firs that surround this hiker’s heaven. One unique feature of this trail is that it is beginning of the entire 79 mile trek of the North Umpqua Trail. One thing to be aware of the presence of poison oak in the area, so don’t wander off the trail. The voice of experience, unfortunately, testifies to this! This easy 3.2 mile hike can be combined with Susan Creek Falls for a full day’s adventure, so bring the kids, a picnic lunch, and make a full day of it. To arrive at Fern Falls Trail, get off at exit 124 off of I-5. Follow Highway 138 for a little over 20 miles until you see Swiftwater Recreation area on the right, where you will see plenty of accessible parking.
The three hiking trails listed above are just a snapshot of what Douglas County Oregon has to offer. There are numerous hiking trails that one can attack in this natural paradise. So what are you waiting for? Pack up that backpack and start exploring the beauty of Douglas County Oregon’s forests!
Works Cited:
http://www.everytrail.com/guide/susan-creek-falls-trail
http://www.blm.gov/or/resources/recreation/site_info.php?siteid=199