A Complete Guide to Medford for Adventure Seekers
With its stunning natural beauty, abundant outdoor activities, vibrant cultural scene and numerous wineries, Medford is a haven for adventure seekers. I wasn’t sure what to expect when I landed in Medford, but I had an incredible trip exploring the best the Rogue River Valley has to offer and I’m here to share the best things to do in Medford, Oregon.
Medford is the perfect base camp for exploring the Rogue River or hiking through the breathtaking landscapes of the nearby Cascade-Siskiyou National Monument. If you want to witness the incredible beauty of Crater Lake National Park, it’s a short drive away – and I highly recommend it! That’s me in the feature photo overlooking Crater Lake. And yes, it really is THAT blue.
Beyond outdoor adventures, Medford also offers a vibrant culinary scene, with farm-to-table restaurants and award-winning wineries. I visited several so I could report back to you. It’s a tough job but I’m always up for the job. Ready to learn about the most fun things to do in Medford, OR? Let’s go!
Outdoor activities in Medford, Oregon
Medford, Oregon is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide range of outdoor activities to satisfy the adventurous spirit.
Its prime location on the Rogue River and proximity to several lakes and reservoirs make it an ideal destination for water-based adventures. Which, as you know, I love!
One of the most thrilling activities in the area is whitewater rafting on the Rogue River.
Whitewater & River Rafting
I think that whitewater rafting on the Rogue River is one of the must-do experiences in the area. This iconic waterway winds through the rugged Klamath-Siskiyou mountains, providing thrilling Class III and IV rapids that will get your adrenaline pumping.
Since I was travelling with a group that was less adventurous than me, we enjoyed going on a river rafting excursion instead of a white water rafting experience. It was a scenic, yet thrilling ride and yes, we did get wet 😉
I hope I get to experience bigger rapids next time I go, but even our Class I rapids splashed us. No matter what kind of water rafting adventure you choose, I suggest you dress in clothing that you don’t mind getting wet. After all, you will be on the water.
Whether you’re a seasoned rafter or a first-timer, the Rogue River offers an unforgettable adventure that showcases the raw power and beauty of nature. This was my second time river rafting and while it was mainly a scenic ride, we still experienced going down a few small rapids.
Other water activities
For those seeking a more serene water-based experience, Medford is also home to several calm lakes and rivers perfect for kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddleboarding.
Lake Selmac, just a short drive from Medford, is a popular spot for these tranquil water activities, allowing you to glide across the glassy surface and take in the stunning surrounding landscapes.
The Rogue River also offers calmer sections ideal for a leisurely paddle, where you can spot local wildlife and enjoy the peaceful serenity of the waterway.
Lakes and swimming holes
In addition to the Rogue River and nearby lakes, Medford is also home to several swimming holes and natural pools that offer a refreshing respite from the summer heat. One such destination is the Rogue Gorge, where the Rogue River has carved a stunning, turquoise-hued canyon.
Here, you can cool off in the crystal-clear waters and bask in the beauty of the surrounding cliffs and lush vegetation. These natural swimming spots are not only a great way to beat the heat but also provide a unique opportunity to connect with the region’s stunning natural landscapes.
Hiking trails in and around Medford, Oregon
Outdoor enthusiasts visiting Medford won’t want to miss the opportunity to explore the region’s diverse network of hiking trails.
From the rugged peaks of the Cascade-Siskiyou National Monument to the lush forests and cascading waterfalls of the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest, Medford provides access to a wealth of hiking destinations that cater to all skill levels.
While it’s not my thing, if you’re looking for a challenging multi-day backpacking adventure, you’ll find that here. There are also family-friendly day hikes.
The trails in and around Medford offer breathtaking vistas, unique geological formations, and the chance to immerse yourself in the region’s natural splendour. I’m all for a day of forest bathing.
Prospect State Scenic Viewpoint
The Rogue Valley surrounding Medford is a hiker’s paradise. I’m not much of a hiker, but I do love a stroll in nature. We visited Prospect State Scenic Viewpoint and enjoyed a picnic lunch after a brief hike to the waterfalls, which were easily accessed via well-maintained hiking trails.
Picnic lunches were a common theme during my trip and I highly recommend doing the same thing. There’s nothing better than an al fresco meal among the trees.
Beyond the well-known hiking destinations, Medford offers a wealth of hidden gems for the more adventurous explorer. The Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest is home to a network of lesser-known trails that lead to secluded waterfalls, serene swimming holes, and ancient rock formations.
The Rainie Falls Trail, for example, takes hikers on a journey through a lush, moss-covered canyon to the base of a stunning 80-foot waterfall, providing a truly immersive and tranquil experience.
These off-the-beaten-path trails offer a chance to discover the region’s natural wonders without the crowds, making them a favourite among local outdoor enthusiasts.
Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest
For those seeking a more leisurely excursion, the Upper and Lower Table Rock trails in the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest are a must-visit. These relatively flat, easy-to-navigate trails wind through lush meadows and oak woodlands, culminating in breathtaking views from the top of the distinctive Table Rock formations.
The Upper Table Rock trail is particularly popular during the spring, when the wildflowers are in full bloom, creating a vibrant and colourful display. I didn’t hike either of these during my visit, but I did get to see them both during my scenic river raft ride.
Things to do near Medford, Oregon
Another iconic natural attraction near Medford is Crater Lake National Park, located just over an hour’s drive from the city. This deep, caldera lake is the result of a volcanic eruption thousands of years ago.
I have done my fair share of hiking and exploring in the Pacific Northwest and I was completely wowed by Crater Lake! Its vibrant blue waters and towering cliffs are truly a sight to behold.
Depending on the season, you can explore the park’s scenic rim drive, hike to breathtaking viewpoints, and even take a boat tour to the lake’s serene, isolated Wizard Island. I visited in the spring and there was still a lot of snow on the ground so we got to do some of the scenic trails but not all of them were open yet.
In the picture below, you can see the snow-covered trails. While we couldn’t walk or hike all the way around the lake, we did get to witness the absolute stillness of the water because the boat tours to the island hadn’t yet begun for the season.
Beyond the region’s renowned national parks and monuments, Medford also serves as a gateway to the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest, a vast wilderness area that offers tons of outdoor activities and natural wonders.
Within the forest, hikers can discover secluded waterfalls, serene swimming holes, and ancient rock formations, all while immersing themselves in the lush, moss-covered landscapes.
Wine tasting and vineyard tours in Medford, Oregon
Medford’s Rogue Valley is not only a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, but also a thriving wine region that offers a unique and flavorful experience for oenophiles.
The area is home to a growing number of award-winning wineries, each with its own distinct terroir and winemaking style, making it a must-visit destination for wine lovers.
One of the highlights of my visit to Medford was the opportunity to explore the region’s picturesque vineyards and sample the local wines. During my trip, I had the perfect balance of adventure and wine tastings. In total, I visited five wineries in the area.
Dos Mariposas Vineyard
Our first winery stop was Dos Mariposas Vineyard and Lavender Farm. That’s it pictured above, isn’t it stunning?! Located just outside of Jacksonville, Oregon, this vineyard overlooks the Table Rocks to the North, with views of Mt McLoughlin to the East.
The views from the tasting room overlook the vineyard, lavender field, and a pond. It was a beautiful day so we enjoyed our tasting outside. This is a gorgeous vineyard and their wines were delicious. I highly recommend a stop here.
Rellik Winery
For dinner one evening, we visited Rellik Winery for a tasting and some of their famous wood-fired pizzas. Since the weather was beautiful, we sat outside on their patio overlooking the vineyards.
As you can see below, don’t sleep on their salads because they are fresh and beautifully plated. It was nice to balance the pizza with a garden fresh salad.
Del Rio Vineyards
The next day, after hiking around Crater Lake National Park, we stopped for a picnic lunch at Del Rio Vineyards. The first thing I noticed was their entranceway. It is so picturesque, with rows of grapes growing in the distance. There’s a picture of it near the beginning of this post.
Since they don’t serve food at Del Rio Vineyards, you are encouraged to bring your own food and enjoy it in their lovely backyard picnic area. We had quite a delectable spread to enjoy with our wines.
Dancin Winery
I did say that we stopped at a lot of wineries during my trip and I wasn’t kidding! Honestly though, doing adventurous activities during the day and enjoying wineries for lunch and dinner stops just might be my favourite way to travel.
Dancin Winery was a dinner stop. If you’re curious about the name as I was, it’s an acronym for the owners’ names, Dan and Cindy. It reflects their passion and personal touch in every aspect of their wine production.
DANCIN Vineyards offers a vibrant live music scene and a varied menu crafted with the freshest local ingredients to complement their award-winning wines. We enjoyed our dinner on the patio listening to live music. It was a lovely way to spend an evening.
A fun fact about Dancin Vineyards is that it is the birthplace of the Oregon Pinot Noir wine glass by Riedel. So popular, in fact, that they had to rename it because they were getting too many requests for location-specific glass.
I can see why, it’s a stunning wine glass. It is now called Vinum New World Pinot Noir. Check it out on my Instagram page where I highlighted it for a wine Wednesday post.
Red Lily Vineyards
The fifth and final winery we visited was Red Lily Vineyards. Red Lily Vineyards is named for the rare Bolander’s Lily that grows in the neighbouring Siskiyou Mountains.
As shown below, my wine tasting was served in vials, which it one of the most unique ways I’ve received a wine tasting.
We took our tastings and lunch down by the river to enjoy at one of their picnic tables. We were very fortunate to have fabulous, sunny weather the entire time we were in Southern Oregon. I especially loved that every winery we visited had plenty of outdoor space to sit and relax.
Cultural and historical attractions in Medford, Oregon
Medford’s rich history and cultural heritage are showcased through a variety of museums, historic sites, and cultural institutions that offer a glimpse into the region’s past.
One of the must-visit attractions in the city is the Hanley Farm, a beautifully preserved 19th-century farmstead that provides a window into the agricultural heritage of the Rogue Valley. Visitors can explore the historic farmhouse, outbuildings, and gardens, and learn about the daily lives and practices of the region’s pioneering settlers.
For a deeper understanding of the area’s Native American history, the Southern Oregon University Hannon Library’s Special Collections and University Archives is a valuable resource. Here, you can delve into the region’s rich cultural heritage through exhibits, educational programs, and guided tours.
This repository houses a wealth of information and artifacts related to the indigenous peoples who have called the Rogue Valley home for thousands of years, including the Takelma, Shasta, and Klamath tribes.
In addition to its historical attractions, Medford also boasts a vibrant arts and culture scene, with a variety of museums, galleries, and performing arts venues that showcase the creativity and talent of local and regional artists.
The Britt Pavillion
We happened to be visiting during the Britt Music & Arts Festival and saw the Orchestra play. The Britt Pavillion caters to a comfortable and enjoyable evening under the stars. The natural acoustics of the hillside, combined with state-of-the-art sound systems, ensure excellent audio quality.
The scenic surroundings, including views of the lush forest and the Rogue Valley, enhance the overall ambiance, making each performance at the Britt Pavilion a memorable experience.
The Schneider Museum of Art, located on the Southern Oregon University campus, features rotating exhibitions of contemporary art, as well as permanent collections that highlight the work of Pacific Northwest artists.
The Craterian Theater, meanwhile, hosts a diverse lineup of live music, dance, and theatrical performances, providing a dynamic cultural experience for visitors and residents alike. Check their schedule to see what is playing during your visit.
Shopping and dining in Medford, Oregon
Medford’s thriving culinary scene is a testament to the region’s commitment to locally sourced, farm-to-table ingredients. The city is home to a growing number of farm-to-table restaurants and artisanal food purveyors that showcase the bounty of the Rogue Valley’s fertile farmlands and vineyards.
Rogue Valley Growers Market
One of the best ways to experience Medford’s vibrant food and drink scene is by visiting the Rogue Valley Growers & Crafters Market, a weekly farmers’ market that brings together local farmers, producers, and artisans.
Here, visitors can browse a wide selection of fresh fruits and vegetables, baked goods, specialty foods, and handcrafted items, all while enjoying live music and a lively community atmosphere. I enjoyed my iced coffee and a homemade muffin while I browsed the market.
The market is not only a hub for local food and crafts, but also a gathering place where visitors can connect with the community and learn more about the region’s agricultural and cultural traditions.
Artisan Corridor
Beyond the farmers’ market, we also visited The Artisan Corridor. From artisanal cheeses to award-winning wines, a chocolate shop, and a bakery are all among the places we stopped.
Add a stop at the Rogue Valley Creamery to your list of things to do in Medford, Oregon. That’s me above sampling an award-winning blue cheese. And let me tell you, it was delicious! Had I not been flying home the next day, I would have purchased a giant block of it.
We also popped into Lillie Belle Farms Chocolates where I sampled chocolate-covered bacon. An odd combination for sure, but it works! I found it to taste a bit like salted caramel chocolate. If you go, be sure to try it for yourself.
We ran out of time, but I wanted to check out the Coquette Bakery. It’s a charming, locally owned, European-inspired bakery known for its freshly baked sourdough bread and pastries made from naturally cultivated yeasts.
Whether you’re searching for the perfect souvenir, a one-of-a-kind piece of art, or the latest outdoor equipment, Medford’s shopping scene is sure to delight and inspire.
Accommodation options in Medford, Oregon
Medford, Oregon offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit the needs and preferences of every type of traveller. For those seeking a cozy and intimate experience, the city boasts a variety of charming bed and breakfasts and boutique inns that provide a home-away-from-home atmosphere.
These smaller, locally owned properties often feature unique amenities, such as gourmet breakfasts, on-site gardens, and personalized concierge services, making them a popular choice among travellers who value a more personalized and authentic experience. I think these sound ideal for a romantic getaway.
If you’re looking for a more traditional hotel or resort-style stay, Medford has a diverse selection of options, ranging from well-known national chains to locally owned and operated properties.
Many of these larger accommodations offer amenities such as indoor pools, fitness centers, and on-site restaurants, catering to the needs of families, business travellers, and adventure-seekers alike.
Author’s pick – I stayed at the Springhill Suites by Marriott Medford Airport and it was ideal! Located right across from the airport, it was centrally located for exploring Medford and the surrounding areas. It was clean and comfortable, plus I earned Marriott points!
For those who prefer the freedom and flexibility of self-catering accommodations, Medford offers a variety of vacation rentals, from cozy cabins and cottages to spacious homes and condos.
These rentals provide travellers with the opportunity to immerse themselves in the local community, while also enjoying the comforts of a fully equipped kitchen, separate living spaces, and outdoor areas such as decks or patios. I love this style of travel for girls’ trips.
Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a group adventure, Medford’s diverse range of vacation rentals can cater to your specific needs and preferences.
Conclusion – Fun Things to do in Medford, Oregon
I had a great time and can’t wait to go back and explore more of Medford, Oregon. It is a true gem of the Pacific Northwest, offering a wealth of outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, and culinary delights that make it an ideal destination for travellers seeking an unforgettable experience.
Whether you’re planning a girls’ trip. a weekend getaway or an extended stay, Medford has something to offer every type of traveller. Pack your bags, lace up your hiking boots, and get ready to discover the best things to do in Medford, Oregon – your next epic journey awaits!
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Press Trip Disclosure: My travel to and around Oregon was paid for by the Visit Medford Tourism Board.
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