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Rogue River Gorge

Union Creek, OR

Nature

A narrow chasm where the Rogue River squeezes through a collapsed lava tube near Union Creek. A short accessible path follows the rim with several viewpoints; it is right beside OR-62.

The Rogue River Gorge is a narrow chasm of the upper Rogue River near Union Creek in southwest Oregon, right beside Oregon Route 62. The river is squeezed through volcanic rock here: the Upper Rogue runs through tight canyons cut into lava, and at lava tubes it disappears underground in places.

The Rogue Gorge Day-Use Area is on the west side of OR-62, just north of Union Creek Resort. A paved loop of about a quarter mile (roughly 400 meters) leads to the viewpoint above the gorge. From there an unpaved trail follows the river through old-growth forest with towering Douglas-firs and pines. It is about 2.25 miles (just over 3.5 km) one way to Natural Bridge. The route is easy to moderate with little elevation gain.

Practical notes: you can hike from spring to fall, depending on snow. For a shorter visit, drive a few miles south to the Natural Bridge parking area. Check snow conditions beforehand.

Nearest town
Union Creek, OR
Category
Nature & parks
GPS
42.9090, -122.4430

Hours, fees and access change. Confirm with the operator or park before you go.

Good to know

Best time to go

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec

The most pleasant months are usually May–October. Still fine, with some compromises, in April and November. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)

Sources

Featured in these trip guides

Nearby

Campsites nearby

All campsites in Oregon · Campsite data: © OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL 1.0 · Updated October 3, 2026

FAQs

Where is Rogue River Gorge?

Rogue River Gorge is in Union Creek, OR, at GPS 42.9090, -122.4430. It is about 15 mi from Crater Lake Rim Village.

Can you camp near Rogue River Gorge?

Yes. The nearest campsite listed in OpenStreetMap is Union Creek Campground, about 0 mi away; within 25 mi there are 65 campsites and motorhome stopovers.

Which road trips pass Rogue River Gorge?

Rogue River Gorge is a stop on these CampingSpirit trip guides: Rogue-Umpqua Scenic Byway via Crater Lake.

What is there to see near Rogue River Gorge?

Places worth a stop nearby: Rogue River Natural Bridge (2 mi), Crater Lake National Park (17 mi), Diamond Lake (23 mi) and Watson Falls (23 mi).

When is the best time to visit Rogue River Gorge?

The most pleasant months are usually May–October. Still fine, with some compromises, in April and November. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)

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