Illinois River Trail

Illinois River Trail

Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest

Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 28 miles
Elevation gain: 2,700 feet
Best time to go: May-July for the best wildflowers

About This Hike 

The Illinois River trail offers eveything you look for while hiking through Oregon - wildflowers, old-growth forest, pristine water, rugged cayons, a variety of wildlife and more. Lower sections of the trail are open year-round, while the sections in higher elevation can be enjoyed throughout Spring and Summer. The trail is 28 miles altogether, so visitors can spend the night at various campsites along the trail or opt for shorter sections to make it a day hike. 

About this Area

The trail goes through the north end of the Kalmiopsis Winderness, and is located in the 2002 Biscuit fire area. The Illinois River was added to the National Wild and Scenic River System in 1984, and the north end of the trail itself is designated a National Recreation Trail. 

Getting There

1. From Grants Pass, go south on Highway 199 for 18 miles until you reach Selma. 

2. Take a right at the Post Office onto County Road 5070, which will become Forest Road 4103. 

3. Forest Road 4103 will soon turn to gravel (watch out for potholes), and the last few miles grow narrower until ending at the trailhead. High-clearance vehicles are suggested. 

Photo by Nik Muir