Winter Daytrips Around Grants Pass
Find your winter playground in Grants Pass, where within 2 hours, you can be exploring snow-covered Crater Lake National Park, hiking through ancient Redwoods, or enjoying a powder day at Mt Ashland. With its close proximity to world-renowned destinations, visitors are afforded a multitude of fun activities within a short drive . Whether you want to dive head first into a thrilling winter escapade or a relaxed day at the coast, adventure abounds in every direction around Grants Pass.
Snowmobiling from Diamond Lake to Crater Lake
For those needing an adrenaline rush, plan a day snowmobiling around the snow-packed Cascade Mountains from December-March. Diamond Lake offers a 300 mile network of groomed trails where you can explore Crater Lake National Park or Mount Bailey Summit. Bring your own ride or rent a snowmobile from Diamond Lake Resort who offers special packages. Experience Southern Oregon’s winter wonderland for a day and ride the trails to the rim of Crater Lake, a volcanic caldera that’s home to the country’s deepest, bluest, and clearest lake. Recently voted as the “Most Beautiful Park in America”, Crater Lake is the crown jewel of the state and one of the most unique natural attractions in the country. After arriving at Crater Lake, grab your snowshoes and enjoy a wintry trek around the rim where you can spot Wizard Island and the Phantom Ship.
Redwoods Hiking and Coast Beachcombing
From Grants Pass, follow Redwood Highway 70 miles towards the coast and plan a day exploring Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park and the emerald waters of the Smith River Recreation Area. Hike to some of Jedediah’s largest Redwoods along the Boy Scout Tree Trail and the Grove of Titans Trail . For a quicker jaunt, take the short path to Stout Grove or follow the scenic drive on Howland Hill Road that winds its way through the Redwoods to Crescent City. While in Brookings, head North along Highway 101 to Samuel Boardman Scenic Corridor . Arguably the most photogenic stretch of Oregon’s 363-miles of public coastline, Samuel Boardman is known for its impressive sea stacks, natural arches, and rugged cliffs. Here you’ll witness waterfalls cascading down onto the beach, sea caves lined with anemone and starfish, and best of all, it garners a fraction of the crowds you’ll see along Oregon’s Northern Coast. While Harris Beach is popular with families, those who enjoy a bit more solitude will find it at Lone Ranch Beach or Whales Head. Hike the Oregon Coastal Trail which leads hikers past fern blanketed forests, ocean vistas, and natural bridges.
Skiing at Mount Ashland
Plan an exhilarating powder day at Mount Ashland Ski Area, just an hour south of Grants Pass. For over 60 years, this community-owned ski resort has provided terrain for skiers and riders of every ability. Explore steeper slopes in The Bowl, along one of their many groomed runs, or find your happy place in one of the tree glades. For those that want to practice your freestyle game, check out their terrain park. This year, Mount Ashland added a new lift to serve beginners and intermediate skiers, making it a great mountain for families. Being the highest point in the Siskiyou Range, the resort offers majestic views of Mt.Shasta and Mt. McLoughlin as you ski above the clouds. Mt. Ashland features a full rental shop (with ski and snowboard rentals and tuning), several dining options, the T-Bar Lounge, a retail shop, and ski school. Purchase half day, whole day, or twilight lift tickets and book in advance to save. 
Birdwatching in the Klamath Basin
If you consider yourself a nature lover, enjoy a day of birdwatching in Klamath Falls, one of the most popular birding destinations in the United States. Thanks to its extensive network of lakes and wetlands and its placement along the Pacific Flyway, visitors are treated to the largest concentration of wintering bald eagles in the Lower 48. During the winter see upwards of 130 species of birds that delight in the regions sunny winter weather. Drop by the Welcome Center to pick up a birding guide before making your way to the Klamath National Wildlife Refuge Complex which stretches down to Tulelake, providing over 20,000 acres of birding habitat. For extra fun, plan to attend the Winter Wings festival over President’s day weekend for birding tours and workshops.
Ice Fishing at Lake of the Woods
For a fun day trip, spend a leisurely afternoon ice fishing at Lake of the Woods. Rated as one of the top ice-fishing destinations in the country, Lake of the Woods is not only renowned for its wide variety of fish, but for its stunning view of the snow-capped Mt McLoughlin. Here, anglers will find trout, crappie, perch, salmon, and bass with yellow perch being the popular biters. While the lake is known for its ice-fishing, visitors enjoy other popular activities like cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. During February, the Lake of the Woods Resort hosts the annual Kite Festival, drawing kite enthusiasts from up and down the West Coast.
Road Conditions and Winter Travel
Before venturing out on your next winter adventure, double check weather and road conditions along your route on Tripcheck. While the weather stays relatively mild in the Rogue Valley, high elevation passes see plenty of snow, including those along I-5. Be aware of chain requirements, bring extra clothing and supplies, and make sure your vehicle in winter-ready. With the proper precautions, Southern Oregon offers wintertime adventures the best of both worlds and an exciting place to enjoy the outdoors.
How To Get Here
Grants Pass is located in the southwest region of Oregon, about an hour north of the California/Oregon border and around four hours south of Portland. For those traveling along I-5, Grants Pass is located off exits 55 from the south and 58 from the north. If you plan to drive from the coast, follow Highway 199 near Crescent City for 80 miles which will bring you to Grants Pass.
Make Grants Pass your adventure hub and start planning your Southern Oregon getaway today! Visit our newly remodeled Welcome Center at 198 SW 6th street to pick up maps and brochures. Learn about more fun things to do around town here.
