Spring in the Rogue Valley is our favorite time of the year!
Whether you’re a local or thinking about a visit to Rogue Valley Wine Country, here are a few bucket list ideas for your wine country itinerary.
Rogue Valley Wine Country is known for its stunning scenery, outdoor recreation, and a flourishing wine industry. Spring and summer are particularly wonderful times to visit, as the wildflowers and lavender are in bloom, the wineries celebrate bud break, and the weather is perfect for hiking, biking, fishing, and river adventures.
Here are a few of our favorite must-see and must-do activities to help you make the most of Rogue Valley Wine Country.
1. Experience Bud Break in the Vineyard
Spring is an exciting time in wine country as the vines start to awaken from their winter dormancy and the buds start to break. This is a crucial time for winemakers, and many wineries celebrate with special events, tastings, and tours. Follow us @roguevalleywinecountry to learn more about bud break— usually late April.
2. Hike or Bike Scenic Trails
The Rogue Valley is home to some of the most beautiful trails in the Pacific Northwest. There are trails for every skill level, from leisurely walks to challenging hikes and mountain biking trails. Some of the best trails to explore for spring flora and fauna include Upper and Lower Table Rock, Mount Ashland, and the Jacksonville Woodlands.
3. Stroll through the Japanese Garden at Lithia Park
Lithia Park is a beautiful park located in downtown Ashland and features a tranquil Japanese Garden. The garden is a perfect place to relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Take a stroll through the garden and enjoy the beauty of the koi pond, tea house, and waterfall.
4. Explore the Wildflowers and Lavender Fields
The Rogue Valley is home to many local farms and gardens that offer the opportunity to explore the vibrant wildflowers and lavender fields. Experience the gardens and enjoy the sights and smells of spring and summer. Check out Southern Oregon Lavender Trail to plan your strategy.
5. Go Fishing on the Rogue River
The Rogue River is one of the top-rated fishing destinations in the United States and offers opportunities for both fly-fishing and conventional fishing. Spring and summer are particularly great times for fishing, with a variety of fish species to catch, including salmon, steelhead, and trout. Visit Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife to get started.
6. Experience River Adventures
If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, there are plenty of river adventures to choose from in the Rogue Valley. You can go rafting, kayaking, paddleboarding, tubing and jet-boating on the Rogue River. Some of the best outfitters to help plan your adventure include Indigo Creek Outfitters, Momentum River Expeditions, and Rogue Jet Boat Adventures
7. Attend a Concert at the Britt Festival
The Britt Festival, named after the founder of Oregon wine, is an outdoor music venue located in Jacksonville and features world- renowned musicians in a stunning setting. With a diverse lineup of genres—from hard rock to symphony—there is something for everyone.
8. Watch a Play at the Oregon Shakespeare Festival
The Oregon Shakespeare Festival is a world-renowned theater festival in Ashland, offering a mix of classic and contemporary plays. With three theaters, including an outdoor Elizabethan theater, there are multiple plays to choose from. Some of the must-see plays include Rent, Romeo & Juliet and The Three Musketeers.
Britt photo by James Montes DeOca
