This visually arresting backcountry drive follows the Rogue River and crosses the majestic mountain wilderness of the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest. It is the only route to the Oregon coast from I-5 between the California-Oregon border and the Rogue. From spectacular vistas of the Rogue River's rugged canyons, over the 4,600 ft. summit at Bear Camp Overlook, and on past Agness to Gold Beach, travelers are rewarded with some of the most breathtaking views of unspoiled beauty in the Western United States.
The road is one lane wide in places and often steep and winding, with turnouts and occasional graveled stretches where the paved surface has been repaired. From the beginning of November to the end of May it is closed because of snow. During the summer, however, it is a popular route, particularly with local residents. If you are from out of town, the drive is a once in a lifetime experience. Be prepared to stop for picture-taking; the photo opportunities are numerous and incredible. It is about 87 mi. from Grants Pass to Gold Beach along this route, with an estimated drive time of a little over 3 hours. WHERE: Take I-5 north from Grants Pass to the Merlin exit (61) and follow Merlin/Galice Road to Galice Creek Road. Here you can take a stunning but little known side trip by continuing north on the Merlin/Galice Road for 8 more mi. of magnificent river and canyon views to Grave Creek Bridge and then doubling back, or you can turn west at the juncture onto Galice Creek Road and continue your journey to the coast. After about 2 mi. Galice Creek Road becomes BLM Road 34-8-36. Follow it another 10 mi. to Bear Camp Road (NF-23) and continue along NF-23 for about 24.5 mi. to Agness Road (NF-33). Follow Agness Road about 19 mi. until it runs into Jerrys Flat Road, and follow it for the final 10 mi. into Gold Beach. MORE INFO: For road conditions call Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest Wild Rivers Ranger District, Grants Pass, at 541-471-6500.