Cow Creek Tour Route
Places to Visit
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This small town is the gateway to upper Cow Creek and Galesville Reservoir. Few services and amenities.
Distance from byway: On the byway Directions: Located near the Tour Route on the east side.
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The third oldest town in Oregon that once served as a supply town for early trappers and miners. It also provided a place for travelers to rest after crossing the mountains and the ‘Dreaded Canyon’, a dangerous entrance to the city. Now home to Seven Feathers Casino, Canyonville has the most food, hotel and gas options along or near the byway.
Distance from byway: On the byway Directions: Located near the Tour Route in the north east.
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Cow Creek Recreational Gold Panning Area (OR)
Near milepost 17, look for signs inviting travelers to strike it rich by panning for gold in Cow Creek. A short trail leads down to the creek and information board provides information and a brief history of panning for gold in the area. No services.
Location: Near milepost 17
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This small logging town acts as the southern entrance to the Back Country Byway. Be sure to fill up on gas and snacks before heading out. Very limited services.
Distance from byway: On the byway Directions: South end of the Tour Route.
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A welcome break awaits travelers at this BLM day-use area. Here you can pan for gold, have a picnic, play in the water or take a walk and explore your surroundings. Vault toilet on site.
Location: On the Cow Creek Tour Route
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The largest town along or near the byway at a little over 1,000 people. The north entrance to the Back Country Byway, be sure to fill up on gas and snacks before heading out.
Distance from byway: On the byway Directions: Located near the north end of the Tour Route.
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The only developed overnight campground along the byway awaits travelers near milepost 22. There are 6 first-come campsites, each with a picnic table and fire ring. No fee; stay limited to 14 days.
Location: Near milepost 22
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This small city is located on the north end of the Tour Route. Come here to lodge, eat, or fill up on gas.
Distance from byway: On the byway Directions: Located on the north end of the Cow Creek Tour Route.
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Near milepost 19 lies the old town site of West Fork. The town was established in 1882 as a service and supply site to serve the residents of the nearby Rogue River Canyon. Interpretive panels depict life in West Fork and along Cow Creek during the latter part of the 19th century.
Location: Near milepost 19
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A small town south of Glendale and home to the Wolf Creek Inn State Heritage Site, Oregon’s oldest continuous use hotel. Built in 1883 and now run by Oregon State Parks, the inn is a lovely place to visit, stay the night or have a wonderful meal.
Distance from byway: On the byway Directions: Located near the south end of the Tour Route.
