A Serene Day on the Cow Creek Tour Route

Cow Creek Back Country Byway (OR) [1]

Take a leisurely drive on southwest Oregon’s Cow Creek Back Country Byway, located 25 miles south of Roseburg. This captivating 45-mile byway will charm you with its wide array of greenery and its quiescent nature. By taking you away from busy freeways and highways, the Cow Creek Back Country Byway allows you to escape to the road less traveled.

The byway itself is a loop on which visitors may start on the north end at Riddle or the south end in Glendale. Be sure to fill up on gas and snacks as these are the only towns along the byway.

Two miles east of Riddle, look to the north and admire barren Nickel Mountain. Now closed, this was the last operating nickel mine/smelter in the United States. Five miles further down, a now defunct railroad tunnel built in 1883 reminds travelers of the early history of the area.

Nickel Mountain (OR) [2]

Natural features of Douglas-fir timber, huge rock outcroppings, and areas of pine-covered serpentine soils dot the landscape. Most of the byway follows tranquil Cow Creek which provides opportunities to pan for gold, view spawning salmon and steelhead and observe soaring osprey looking for their next meal. Other stops along the way include Skull Creek Campground, Island Creek Day Use Area, and interpretive panels depicting the long mining, logging, and early pioneer history of Cow Creek.

Filled with lush greens, historic landmarks and stirring views, the Cow Creek Back Country Byway is a welcome break from the hustle and bustle of Interstate 5.