Union Creek to Natural Bridge

Wow. Nineteen of us assembled at Union Creek parking lot after cars arrived from Ashland, Pheonix, and Medford. We shuttled cars between Union Creek and Natural Bridge in order to follow a one-way hike from Union Creek to its confluence with the Rogue River and down the Rogue River Trail to Natural Bridge. There we had our lunch and again marveled upon the lava tubes where the river vanishes underground and comes through a rock chasm.

Then we hiked round-trip from Natural Bridge to Knob Falls. As always the variable flow of the Rogue River from an easy meander to turbulent waters through the canyon provides a seemingly fresh experience each time we traverse this trail. We managed a group photo (minus photographer) on the foot bridge a mile before reaching Natural Bridge parking.

The wooded river bank regaled fall colors. The dogwoods were a light pink, not as vivid as we’ve found them in prior years. Perhaps we were a bit late this year, owing to the heat. Like last week on the upper Union Creek, we found beautiful mushrooms in many colors, such as a rich magenta and a baby blue. We watched a kingfisher, Merganser ducks and two American dippers. and other delightful river life. As always, we enjoyed the diverse species of trees, with experienced identifications by Nancy. They ranged from old growth to fresh starts, revealing a healthy forest.

Total distance hiked: 5.8 miles.

Hike Leader: Elisabeth

Photos By: Elisabeth, Kate, Kay