Why head to the Bear Creek Greenway?
Although Bear Creek Greenway is a multi-use trail, in my opinion, it’s best for bike riding.
The trail runs along a greenbelt but is very close to the highway/freeway and, in some spots, noisy.
There were also some interesting characters on the trail, and I felt more confident whipping along on my bike than I would have on foot.
Reading reviews of the trail, I see many people feel it is unsafe. We did not. But I would not use the trail alone, and certainly not after dark.
It is a worthwhile ride.
The trail passes through beautiful countryside, including a gorgeous flower farm.
Six parks along the route make great pit stops.
You can hop on and off the trail to access local businesses.
Make it a day
We broke the trail into two sections and used it for some late afternoon exercise. Because there’s a lot of good food in Ashland, we wanted to work up an appetite for dinner!
Each town has access points, with a typical assortment of restaurants, coffee shops, and stores.
Our favorite park is the Blue Heron Park in the town of Phoenix. The trail runs along the park, so you can’t miss it.
This park has a beautiful playground, picnic areas, a field, volleyball, and clean restrooms.
Beginning and ending in Ashland would be my first choice.
This Bear Creek fan has the right idea – take a detour for pizza!
Related post:
See our Weekend in Ashland post for recommendations on restaurants and other activities.
About Bear Creek Greenway
Bear Creek Greenway is 18 miles of paved, multi-use trail connecting Ashland, OR to Central Point, OR. The trail runs through the towns of Ashland, Talent, Phoenix, Medford, and Central Point along Bear Creek.
Related post:
See What is the Pacific Northwest {for travelers}
Flower Farm on the Bear Creek Greenway.
Where is Bear Creek Greenway?
Oregon – Southern Oregon – Jackson County
The trail runs from Ashland to Central Point.
How long is Bear Creek Greenway?
Bear Creek Greenway is 18 miles (one-way).
The Greenway is an out-and-back trail.
Where are the start and endpoints of the Bear Creek Greenway?
The Bear Creek Greenway starts at Ashland Dog Park on Nevada Street and Helman Street.
The trail ends at Dean Creek Rd. Trailhead, just past the town of Central Point.
Elevation gain
Approx 600 ft.
The trail is mostly flat with some short hills – usually around the road access points.
Access points along the trail
There are many access points along the Bear Creek Greenway trail, but some excellent options are:
Ashland Dog Park (Nevada Street at Helman Street)
Lynn Newbry Park (West Valley View in Talent)
Blue Heron Park (Hwy 99 near Oak Street in Phoenix)
U.S. Cellular Park (Hwy 99 at Lowry Lane)
Bear Creek Park (Highland Drive at Greenwood Street)
Hawthorne Park (Hawthorne Street at East 8th Street)
Railroad Park (Berrydale Avenue near Table Rock Road)
All these parks have ample parking, restrooms, a water source, and recreation areas.
Surface of trail
Bear Creek Greenway is a paved trail.
Uses
Biking
Walking
Horseback (in Central Point and Talent)
In-line skating
Cross-country skiing
Wheelchair accessible
Parking along the trail
Parking is available at all the parks listed above.
Restrooms
Restroom facilities at all the parks listed above.
More information
Helpful links
A Weekend in Ashland, Oregon: Choose Your Own Adventure
How to Find Family-Friendly Trails
Guidebooks on Amazon
For more outdoor adventures near Portland, Oregon, check out this fun guidebook…
