Lost Creek Lake Trail

The 30-mile trail around Lost Creek Lake is one of the most beautiful places in the state.  There are breathtaking views of the lake and hillsides, sweeping meadows of flowing grass and flowers, and the smell of warm oak trees. A portion of the trail is on the Rogue River National Recreation Trail, and it’s just off the Rogue-Umpqua Scenic Byway.  There’s an interpretive boardwalk near the McGregor Visitor Center and Cole Rivers Fish Hatchery. The trail also runs near the Corps of Engineers-operated William L. Jess Dam, built for flood management.  The trail offers views of wildlife and some portions are only accessible by hiking or boat – a hiking gem allowing for solitude and beauty.

This natural area preserves the habitat of many native plant and animal species while allowing visitors to see them.  The views of the dam demonstrate our ability to mitigate for flood events.  Walking through the McGregor Visitor Center and viewing the exhibits about the area historic and recent culture and events helps us learn of our past and future.  The Cole Rivers Fish Hatchery has exhibits as well that teach about the management of migratory salmon on the river.  The beauty of the site and the recreation opportunities (hiking, fishing, boating, picnicking, etc.) will bring people back again and again.

• Interpretive signage
• Visitor center nearby