Do you want to enjoy the cooler fall weather on the best Medford hiking trails? Here in Southern Oregon, it’s easy to forget that we have access to some of the most breathtaking hikes, complete with mountain views, bubbling creeks, fall foliage, and lots of wildlife.
With all the options available to you, where should you start hiking Southern Oregon? Of course, there are plenty of factors to consider—how far or steep a hike you can handle; the region you hope to explore; the temperature and weather; along with your fitness level.
Below, we highlight share some of our favorite Medford hiking trails. But, before you slip into your hiking boots, your Medford podiatrists have some safety tips that will help you up your trail game while avoiding injury.
How to Stay Safe on Medford Hiking Trails ![hiking boots on a mountain range]()
While you’re researching hiking trails, you also need to look carefully at your foot wear. If you select a hilly trail, or a path with uneven terrain, you should make sure your sneakers provide plenty of ankle stability, or select a supportive hiking boot that will help prevent ankle rolling and sprains.
Before you start any hike, engage in light stretching to warm up your muscles. Start by focusing on the calf muscles, pointing one foot forward while step the other foot behind you. Put your hands on a wall or tree, deeply bending the knee on the forward leg until you feel a stretch in your back calf. Hold for at least 30 seconds then switch sides.
You can also stretch out your quads by standing with feet hip width apart. Raise one leg, kicking up the heel until you can grab the foot with the that hand. Hold for 30 seconds while maintaining an upright posture, then switch sides. Now you should be ready to start your hike. And when you’re done? Be sure to engage in some cooldown stretches to prevent tension in your muscles, reducing tugging on your tendons and helping prevent pain and inflammation the day after your hiking excursion. You can still focus on your calf and quad muscles, but you should also loosen up your thighs, hips and ankles.
The day after a hike, it’s normal to experience mild discomfort, even if you followed these stretching guidelines. But if you feel pain instead of tightness, that could indicate a brewing injury. At that point, you should stop physical activity and schedule an appointment with Dr. Devin Dimond or Dr. Evan Merrill, our podiatrists in Medford, OR. But if all feels good after stepping off the trails, we encourage you to keep exploring our favorite Medford hiking trails, highlighted below.
7 Beautiful Medford Hiking Trails
Ready to explore Southern Oregon from the trails? Here are some of our favorite trail options:
1. Roxy Anne Peak Trail
Located inside Prescott Park, this 5.1-mile loop trail presents a moderately difficult challenge, with beautiful glimpses of neighboring peaks including Mount McLoughlin. With plenty of sunlight and a gorgeous view of Rogue Valley from the summit, this is a perfect Medford hiking trail to tackle in fall, when temperatures are milder.
2. Madrone Trail
For an easier option in Prescott Park, explore this newly-paved, 1.2-mile in-and-back trail. You can bring the kids and dogs, as long as pets remain on a leash.
3. Table Rock Medford Hiking Trails
Choose from the upper or lower Table Rock trails, both out-and-back paths of easy to moderate difficulty (the upper trail is easier than the lower one). Marvel at the 2000-year-old massive volcanic rocks, along with views of Mount McLoughlin, Mount Ashland and Pilot Peak.
4. Panorama Point Trail in Jacksonville Woodlands Historic Natural Park
Ideal for hikers of all ability levels and ages, this trail offers incredible views of the Southern Oregon Cascades, and options to explore the park’s historic mining areas as well.
5. National Creek Falls
Located in nearby Prospect, this short, downhill hike is a great choice for families. But as fall wears on, be sure to bring a light jacket, as spray from the 40-foot falls can hit you while you hike.
6. Wagner Butte
Offering multiple trail options that lead to the top, you can enjoy a 10-mile round trip day of Medford hiking—along with a 2,700-foot climb—and highlights including forests, meadows and views of Mount Ashland and McLoughlin; Soda Mountain and the Marble Mountains; as well as Ashland and Medford.
7. Bear Creek Greenway
Best to visit between April and October, this is a great trail to explore in early fall. Though the route is fairly easy, the trail length is 5.6 miles out and back, so set aside plenty of time to complete this hike.
Keep Enjoying Medford Hiking with the Southern Oregon Podiatrists
Do you love hiking Southern Oregon, but hate how your feet feel sore or tired after a long day on the trails? We don’t want foot or heel pain to keep you from enjoying your favorite fall activities, whether you’re an avid hiker, a football fan or simply a weekend warrior. Want to stay active and comfortable all season long, and into the new year? Schedule an appointment with our podiatrists in Medford, OR, also serving Southern Oregon and Northern California. We’ll determine what’s causing any discomfort you may be experiencing, and help you stay comfortable in your hiking boots or sneakers so you can get out the door and back into nature!