The Enchanted Forest and Felton Memorial Trails lie in the heart of the Applegate Valley wine country, offering epic views, a rich deep forest of madrone, pine and fir trees, and pieces of raw history along the way.
As you begin your adventure along the trail system, you’ll likely see some friendly deer and wild turkeys. Swooping meadows with beautiful madrone trees will greet you as you stroll, and soon you'll come upon a historic Chevy truck. This is the only “junk” you’ll find along this beautifully maintained trail, but its historic charm is fitting and exciting to examine. Three-quarters of mile into your hike, you’ll reach a small creek and trail signs where you can continue up to Enchanted Forest Trail or hang a right to the Felton Memorial Trail.
If you continue up the Enchanted Forest Trail you’ll encounter some steep switchbacks but a few great views of the Applegate Valley. If you choose the Felton Memorial Trail you’ll encounter a more gradual hike, with amazing views and beautiful wildflowers in the spring and summer. The trail ends at a clearing at the site of a 1993 helicopter crash, which is marked with a memorial honoring the three men who passed in the tragic accident. This is a nice place to grab some water and a snack, but remember all other trails from the clearing go through private land and should be avoided. Upon your descent be sure to grab some pictures of the plethora of wildflowers, including the many yellow irises.
The Enchanted Forest and Felton Memorial Trails are some of the best maintained and pristine day hiking trails you’ll find in Southern Oregon. Like the sign says at the trailhead, be sure to follow “Leave No Trace” principles as you set out on this breathtaking little gem.
Enchanted Forest + Felton Memorial Trail
Difficulty: Moderate
Enchanted Forest: 4.4 miles round trip, 1,100-foot elevation gain
Felton Memorial: 4.6 miles round trip, 750-foot elevation gain
Restrooms: None, plan accordingly
Optimal Season: March - November
The Enchanted Forest is the perfect location for a family hike, trail running, bird watching, dog walking and photography! Be cautious of ticks and poison oak in the hotter months, but be sure to take in the lovely forest and its historical landmarks.
Take Oregon Highway 62 (Crater Lake Highway) west until it turns into Rossanley Lane (Highway 238). Continue 2.2 miles and turn left onto Hanley Road (Highway 238 continued). Follow Highway 238 for 2.8 miles through Jacksonville. Turn right on East California Street. Pass through the intersection at North Oregon Street and continue on California Street (Highway 238 continued) for 15 miles. Turn right on North Applegate Road and continue for 4.6 miles. Turn right on Slagle Creek Road and continue for another 1.6 miles. The trailhead is clearly marked at the end of Slagle Creek Road. Parking is limited and can only accommodate 3-5 vehicles. If full, you may need to park on the shoulder of Slagle Creek Road. Do not park in the nearby private driveways.
Whether you are looking for a solo venture bird watching, or a hike with the whole family, you are sure to enjoy a hiking adventure throughout the Enchanted Forest. Can't get enough hiking? Luckily for you, the Heart of the Rogue is full of treasures to explore!
