Cow Creek scenic byway is in southwest Oregon about 25 miles north of Grants Pass. The byway forms an open loop drive west of I-5 between Glendale and Riddle. Southern access from I-5 is Exit #80; northern access is Exit #103. The byway follows Cow Creek Road, which is a two-lane paved road suitable for all vehicles. Cow Creek is 45 miles long and remains open year-round.

The cool waters of Cow Creek flow alongside the byway as it makes its way through a mixed conifer forest. Railroad tracks of the historic Oregon & California Railroad also accompany you for most of the byway. Rugged rock bluffs, railroad bridges, tunnels, and retaining walls are among some of the views offered to the byway traveler. The railroad tracks, tunnels, and bridges are now used by Southern Pacific Railroad. Wildlife observers will want to be looking for osprey nests along the creek as well as mule deer. In spring the wildflowers proudly make their presence known along the byway.

The area encompassing Cow Creek has long been a popular mining area, and still is to this day. Nickel Mountain with its nickel mine can be seen from the byway. The BLM maintains a recreational gold panning area midway along the route with day-use facilities including picnic tables and restrooms.

Although there are no developed campgrounds along the byway, the BLM permits camping nearly anywhere on public lands. Private land may surround public land, so it is best to obtain detailed maps showing the boundaries before choosing your campsite. Public campgrounds can be found along nearby scenic byways and in the nearby Siskiyou National Forest.

Information: BLM-Medford District Office, 3040 Biddle Rd, Medford OR 97504 / 541-770-2411. Siskiyou National Forest, 200 NE Greenfield Rd, Grants Pass OR 97526 / 541-471-6500