Grants Pass, Ore. - A large landslide is impacting the Rogue River Trail at trail mile 21.5, approximately one mile upstream from the Rogue River Ranch. The landslide has obliterated approximately 150 feet of the trail. There is no clear, safe route around or over this obstruction. The BLM has issued a public land closure for the affected area.
“Traversing this active slide would expose a hiker to the possibility of injury or death," said Mike Vanderberg, Grants Pass Field Manager. “Please avoid this area while we work to address the landslide."
Significant snow levels exist in the mountains above the Rogue River Trail and the potential remains for additional rocks, trees and other debris to fall. The remote backcountry trail has several sections with cliffs. Hikers are advised to use their best judgement and be aware of surroundings at all times.
Raft-supported hiking trips are advised to be prepared to float their hikers around the slide area. One option would be loading hikers into rafts at Quail Creek and floating them three miles to the Rogue River Ranch. The slide is located between John’s Riffle and Maggie’s Riffle.
BLM crews are working to address the landslide and re-open the section of trail.
A BLM employee sizes up the landslide located on the Rogue River Trail approximately one mile upstream from the Rogue River Ranch.
Source: Bureau of Land Management