With wide-ranging viewpoints, rare butterflies and wildflowers, and plenty of knee-scraping opportunities for the kids, Hobart Bluff is a terrific place to hike. The trail takes you on an easy stroll along the Pacific Crest Trail that skirts Hobart Peak, and ends on a small plateau vegetated by white-leaf manzanita, mountain mahogany, and western juniper.
Begin hiking north from the trailhead across a meadow. A sign indicates this grassland is Mardon skipper (Polites mardon) habitat, a rare butterfly only seen in Washington, Oregon and California. The trail allows you to pass through oak woods, peaceful meadow slopes and white fir/incense cedar forest as you skirt the eastern slope of Hobart Peak. Take a break when you pass by the waterless campsite, perfect for a packed picnic.
When you're almost to the top, a switchback offers a view of Soda Mountain, and a stony, grassy slope offers views of the southern Oregon Cascades and Crater Lake. Balsamroot and Oregon sunshine bloom here in spring, and you’ll pass through manzanita thickets among a few hardy mountain mahogany trees and twisted junipers. The top of Mount McLoughlin becomes visible as does the Bear Creek Valley spreading below. From the summit area, you can see Mount Shasta rising above Soda Mountain’s east ridge and Pilot Rock prominent to the southwest.
Hobart Bluff is a great first hike for both those getting into hiking and the veteran hiker. With it's beautiful wildlife and incredible views, this is not a hike to miss.
Hobart Bluff Trailhead
Difficulty: Easy
Average Distance: 2.5 miles round trip, 413 foot elevation gain
Restrooms: Pit toilet at trailhead
Optimal Season: Mid spring to beginning of fall
This wonderful trail is great for trail running, a family hike, photography or a walk with your dog. You will also discover that this is a perfect location for bird-watching, with an abundance of wildflowers and surrounding trees. Be aware of ticks and poison oak in the summer and spring, and mud in the winter season. Near the peak, there are steep ledges, so be cautious and keep watch of your kiddos!
Take 1-5 S for approximately 12.8 miles, and take exit 14 for OR-66 toward Ashland / Klamath Falls. Turn left onto OR-66 E/Ashland for 15 miles. Turn right onto Soda Mountain Rd for approximately 3.8 miles and Hobart Bluff Trailhead will be on your right.
Ready for a fun day at the river, or a day of biking the trails? Take your exploration rogue with exciting activities and rugged trails you'll only find in Medford!
