Located close to the California state line, the city of Medford, OR is not far from some of the most beautiful national forests and nature reserves on the West Coast. If you like day trips and are looking for new destinations to visit in the area, these are some great spots you should not miss. Invite your friends, prepare some snacks, and check out these fantastic nearby places!
1. Cascade-Siskiyou National Monument
Covering an area of almost 120,000 acres, Cascade-Siskiyou National Monument is a beautiful nature reserve established in 2000. Home to numerous Native American archaeological sites and featuring an extensive network of hiking and mountain biking trails, this large nature reserve is an excellent destination for Medford residents looking for a place to get away from the urban routine. Getting here takes about 45 minutes by car, driving 30 miles southeast along routes I-5 and OR-66.
Once you make your way to the entrance of Cascade-Siskiyou National Monument, some of the places you should check out include Little Pilot Peak, Soda Mountain, Hobart Lake, and the Pacific Crest hiking trail. Besides trekking, popular activities at this national monument include fishing, wildlife watching, mountain biking, selective hunting, picnicking, boating, kayaking, canoeing, and camping. In the winter months, this place is a top-rated destination for skiing, sledding, and snowmobiling.
2. Crater Lake National Park
Another expansive nature reserve with stunning views and beautiful landscapes, Crater Lake National Park is an excellent day trip destination for Medford residents. Located about 65 miles northeast of the city center, this place can be reached in about an hour and 15 minutes by car, driving along route OR-62. Established in 1902, this national park covers an area of about 180,000 acres and receives over 700,000 visitors each year from all over the country.
As its name indicates, the main attraction at Crater Lake National Park is the main body of water located right in the center of the reserve. A remnant of a destroyed volcano that once stood in the area, this is now one of the deepest lakes in the entire world. Besides visiting the lake and enjoying the fantastic landscapes of the area, this national park is a perfect spot for numerous outdoor activities, including biking, hiking, boating, and wildlife watching.
3. Umpqua National Forest
Established in 1907 and welcoming almost 800,000 visitors each year, Umpqua National Forest is one of the largest nature reserves in the state of Oregon. With an area of about 985,000 acres, it spans three different counties and features numerous points of interest, including scenic rivers, wilderness areas, and an extensive network of hiking and mountain biking trails. This national forest can be reached in about an hour and 20 minutes by car from downtown Medford.
Are you ready to hit the road and check out these wonderful spots? Visit us at Airport Chevrolet GMC! Check out our catalog, ask for a test drive, and take home your favorite model with the most convenient financing plan.
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