Whether you are training for your next major event or tuning up for the local Turkey Trot, Medford and the Rogue Valley are a runner’s paradise. With terrain to suit any runner’s needs, the region offers limitless options and is literally a breath of fresh air. Lace up your shoes and head out to these local running trails, all within a 15-minute drive of Medford.
This 5.8 mile hilly and scenic loop winds through the Britt Woods surrounding Jacksonville and is ideal for intermediate trail runners. The 80-acre estate that was once owned, and aptly named after, Peter Britt, a 18th century pioneer turned local celebrity, winds through oak groves and pine trees and provides glimpses of Mt McLoughlin off in the distance. For runners looking for an extended jaunt, the Britt Woods trail is part of the Jacksonville trail system and connects with several other local routes. The well-marked trails make navigation easy for those visiting the trail for the first time, including several interpretive displays showcasing the area's mining past.
Distance: 5.8 miles, plus 18 miles of connecting interpretive and recreational trails
Reward: Visit Oregon’s oldest Giant Sequoia
Highlight: History
Prescott Roxy Ann Park offers 5 trails in one convenient local. Great for the trail blazer or families, trails range from Easy to Moderate and offer paved and unpaved options. If you can make it to the top, (the last half mile is the toughest, with 500 of the 800 feet of elevation gain) the 360-degree panorama view of the Rogue Valley is worth every step! Runners be aware, the trails are also open to mountain bikers and equestrians. This is a great location if your running partner is your four-legged friend, all trails are dog friendly.
Distance: 15 miles of trails, ranging from 1 to 5 miles.
Reward: The View
Highlight: Accessibility
For those runners that prefer road running, there are several local options to get your heart pumping. With over 250 days of sunshine in the Rogue Valley, these trails offer predictable terrain, all year long. Most notably, is the Bear Creek Greenway. The paved multi-use trail runs for 20 miles between Ashland and Central Point, passing through Talent, Phoenix, and Medford and is best for longer group runs. The greenway provides creek-side woods and natural areas, including eight parks, and several benches along the route for a place to rest. The trail can be accessed from many places. In Medford, access the trail from U.S. Cellular Park, Bear Creek Park, Hawthorne Park or Railroad Park.
Distance: 20 miles total, choose your distance.
Reward: bird watching and wildlife viewing
Highlight: Parks along the route provide parking, restrooms, and drinking water.
