Few landmarks are more iconic to Southern Oregon than Upper and Lower Table Rock. Rising dramatically above the Rogue Valley floor, these ancient volcanic formations have become beloved destinations for local residents and visitors alike. Every year, thousands of people hike the trails to experience breathtaking views, wildflower displays, unique ecosystems, and a perspective of the Rogue Valley that simply cannot be found anywhere else.

Few natural treasures define Southern Oregon quite like the Rogue River. Flowing from the Cascade Mountains near Crater Lake through the Rogue Valley and eventually to the Pacific Ocean, the Rogue River has been drawing outdoor enthusiasts for generations. It is one of America's original Wild and Scenic Rivers and remains one of the most celebrated rafting and kayaking destinations in the country.

I think we all wish there was more snow on our local mountains each winter.  Few winter activities capture the beauty of Southern Oregon quite like snowshoeing. Unlike downhill skiing or snowboarding, snowshoeing requires very little technical skill to begin. Yet it provides an extraordinary opportunity to explore snow-covered forests, mountain vistas, alpine meadows, and wilderness landscapes that few people ever experience in winter.

Few sports combine power, endurance, technique, teamwork, and mental focus quite like rowing. In Southern Oregon, the rowing community has found a home at Rogue Rowing, a nonprofit rowing club located on Emigrant Lake in Ashland. The organization offers opportunities for juniors, masters, veterans, and recreational rowers while fostering a lifelong love of the sport. Rogue Rowing operates from Emigrant Lake, one of Southern Oregon's most beautiful rowing venues and a centerpiece of the region's outdoor recreation community.

Thanks to its mild climate, long growing season, fertile soils, and abundant sunshine, residents enjoy opportunities to grow everything from vegetables and fruit trees to roses, native plants, vineyards, and elaborate landscape gardens.

Few sports have captured the attention of active adults quite like pickleball. Across the Rogue Valley, courts are filled with players who have discovered a sport that is competitive, social, accessible, and fun. Whether you're a beginner learning the game or a seasoned player competing in tournaments, pickleball offers something increasingly rare: a sport that can be enjoyed for decades.

Southern Oregon has quietly become one of the premier mountain biking destinations in the Pacific Northwest. From the Jacksonville Forest trail system to the legendary trails surrounding Ashland, riders have access to hundreds of miles of world-class singletrack. The Rogue Valley Mountain Bike Association (RVMBA) has played a critical role in maintaining, expanding, and advocating for these trails, helping create one of the most vibrant riding communities in Oregon.

Southern Oregon is a golfer's paradise. From the beautiful fairways of Rogue Valley Country Club to Centennial Golf Club, Quail Point Golf Course, Eagle Point Golf Club, and nearby courses throughout the region, golfers enjoy one of the most scenic and enjoyable golf environments in the Pacific Northwest.

Southern Oregon is one of the most extraordinary places in America to live an active life. On any given weekend, local residents may find themselves hiking Upper and Lower Table Rock, skiing Mt. Ashland, rafting the Rogue River, golfing at Rogue Valley Country Club, exploring Lithia Park, mountain biking Jacksonville Forest, or playing pickleball with friends.