Rogue-Umpqua Scenic Byway facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
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| Route information | |
| Maintained by ODOT | |
| Length | 167.22 mi (269.11 km) |
| Major junctions | |
| North end |   I-5 / OR 138 in Roseburg |
| midpoint north of Crater Lake | |
| South end |  I-5 / OR 234 in Gold Hill |
| Location | |
| Counties: | Douglas, Jackson |
| Highway system | |
| Oregon highways Routes • Highways |
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The Rogue-Umpqua Scenic Byway is a special road in Oregon, a state in the United States. It's called a National Scenic Byway because of its amazing natural beauty. This byway takes you on a journey through the beautiful areas around the North Umpqua River, the tall High Cascades mountains, and the upper part of the Rogue River. It's a fantastic way to explore some of Oregon's most stunning landscapes.
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What is the Rogue-Umpqua Scenic Byway?
This byway is a long, winding road that lets you see many different parts of Oregon's nature. It's like a guided tour through forests, along rivers, and past lakes. The byway is managed by the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT). They make sure the road is safe and well-maintained for everyone to enjoy.
How Long is the Scenic Byway?
The entire Rogue-Umpqua Scenic Byway is about 167 miles (269 kilometers) long. That's a lot of ground to cover! It takes you through two different counties in Oregon: Douglas County and Jackson County. Along the way, you'll find many places to stop, explore, and take pictures.
Exploring the Byway: A Journey Through Nature
The Rogue-Umpqua Scenic Byway offers an exciting adventure. It starts in the city of Roseburg and ends in Gold Hill. Along this route, you'll experience different types of landscapes, from calm rivers to majestic mountains.
Where Does the Byway Begin?
Your journey on the byway starts in Roseburg. Here, you'll find the beginning of OR 138, right where it meets Interstate 5. From Roseburg, the byway heads east, leading you deeper into Oregon's natural beauty.
Following the Rivers and Lakes
As you travel, the byway soon begins to follow the North Umpqua River near a town called Glide. You'll drive alongside this river for a while, enjoying the peaceful views. The road continues eastward until it reaches the beautiful Diamond Lake. At the lake, the byway turns south, following its eastern shore.
After Diamond Lake, the byway turns west and then southwest onto OR 230. Here, it starts to follow the famous Rogue River. Eventually, this part of the byway joins with OR 62 near a spot called Union Creek.
The Final Stretch to Gold Hill
On the last part of your trip, the byway connects with OR 234. You'll pass by interesting rock formations known as Upper and Lower Table Rock. Finally, the byway reaches its end in the town of Gold Hill. The entire scenic drive is about 172 miles (277 kilometers) long, offering many memorable sights.
History of the Scenic Byway
The Rogue-Umpqua Scenic Byway has been recognized as a special route for many years. Its beauty and importance have earned it several official titles.
When Was the Byway Designated?
The road was first named a National Forest Scenic Byway on October 21, 1990. This was done by the National Forest Service, which manages many of our country's forests. This designation recognized the byway's importance within national forest lands.
Later, on February 19, 1997, it was also named an Oregon State Scenic Byway. This means the state of Oregon officially recognized its scenic value. Finally, on June 13, 2002, the byway received its highest honor: it was named a National Scenic Byway. This national title highlights its outstanding natural, cultural, and historical importance for the entire country.
