“The accessibility of hiking trails all over the entire Rogue Valley is incredible,” “The accessibility of hiking trails all over the entire Rogue Valley is incredible,” says Adrian Perez, “It has so many trails that you can keep exploring and not lose interest in. Hiking the same trails in different seasons really makes the Rogue unique. Doing a snow hike is completely different then doing that same hike on a summer night. It is really remarkable.”

With this endorsement ringing in our head, the Messenger set out to make a list of the five most “accessible” hikes in the Rogue Valley. What’s our criteria? Well, first and foremost, this means easy to find, easy to drive to and not too far away. And, right, quality; you know, like, the scenery, viewpoints, length and duration of the hike.

Grizzly Peak: Not located too far outside of Ashland, Grizzly Peak is known for its diverse forests and amazing viewpoints. Grizzly Peak trail sign is about 20 minutes outside of Ashland, right after mile marker 13. Then it’s about another ten-minute drive to get to the start of the trail and cell service the entire time.

Roxy Anne: None of the hikers were consulted had this one on their list; however, located directly behind Medford and accessible year round, with amazing views, we couldn’t leave off. The trail can be accessed from Hillcrest, Dr. and is a 2,000 foot, 1.5 mile climb to the top then back down. Not only does this trail offer beautiful views of Medford, but surrounding peaks such as Mt. Mcloughlin, Mt. Shasta, Mt. Ashland and many more.

Table Rocks: Upper and Lower Table Rock are located right behind Central Point. They can be accessed from Table Rock Rd. after passing through Central Point. Both Table Rocks can be seen from almost anywhere in Medford and Central Point. Both hikes aren’t the most appealing (both relatively easy) with basically just inclines to get the top. Upper is shorter, but steeper and lower is longer but less steep. However, the trail does offer some cool little rest areas. The most rewarding part is when reaching the top as both offer vastly different plateaus to be explored and amazing views of the valley from all angles.

Acid Castles: This was not on two of the hikers list we consulted; however, it is accessible from Lithia Park and offers some of the most amazing views of Ashland, Grizzly Peak and Pilot Rock. It is located on Hit St. off of Granite and is only a ten or so minute hike. However, there is some very moderate rock climbing. Once you reach the top you’ll be awarded with views of Ashland that can’t be seen anywhere else.

Pilot Rock: This one would be higher on the list except, the last about 150-foot climb to the top is gnarly and not for everyone. It’s not too dangerous, however one wrong move and you’ll be tumbling down for a bit. It is easily the most challenging and rewarding of the hikes. It is only a 3-mile 1000-foot climb, but at the top you’ll fill on top of the world (or at least Ashland) with a breathtaking 360-degree panoramic view of the entire Valley. It’s located just off of I-5 off the first Mt. Ashland exit.