Rogue River Gorge, Union Creek, OR

Since we started working in Oregon I had heard lots of talk about the raging Rogue River.  Most folks bowed slightly when it was mentioned.  Now we know why.  When the volcano (Mt. Mazama) exploded that created Crater Lake it made miles and miles of lava tubes.  As they have collapsed over time, gorges were created.  The Rogue River tears through a very narrow one about 15 miles from the NP.  Our friends, Susie and Mike from Medford, helped route us to the Gorge, one of their favorite places in the state.

The Gorge Trail starts beside the river as it exits the Gorge.  You walk up to the start of the Gorge climbing slightly all the way.  There are several overlooks and even some steps down the cliff for a closer look.  Here is the lower end.

The ferns, shrubs and drooping vines along the cliffs were so lush and set like a hanging garden.  You can see the surge coming down the gorge.

At this point the waters are beginning to cascade as the walls narrow.  We hurried along to see the falls at the top.  As we walked the sound of the water was multiplied by about 10.  The surge of power that came from the river pushed into the narrow tube just overwhelmed me.  Tears sprang to my eyes and I couldn't quit crying for about 5 mins.  I never have had such a surprising reaction.  The power and beauty grabbed me and would not let go!!!

The falls is not that steep, just so full of energy!   Truly amazing!!

Here's the Rogue River as it meanders toward the Gorge.  Pretty tame looking.  In fact, we had just driven along it and didn't know it was there.

The Rogue River Gorge is now very close to the top of My Most Fantastic Places list.  We were so lucky that Susie and Mike knew we couldn't miss it when we were so close by.  True friends!!