Recognized as wine country since the mid-1800’s when renaissance man Peter Britt nurtured the first winegrapes, the Applegate Valley’s viticultural spirit has overcome many obstacles: Prohibition, skeptics, its far-flung location, and all of the challenges of farming.
Hiking in the Applegate Valley — a place where the Coast Range, Siskiyous and Cascades meet in Southern Oregon — never gets dull. Trails traverse open savannahs, cross desert-sage landscapes and wend into galleries of lush old growth.
“Every major ecosystem in the West collides here,” says Applegate Valley conservationist, author and trail advocate Luke Ruediger.
The Applegate Valley is home to one of the country’s premier ‘free-flight’ sites: Woodrat Mountain. The right wind flows, strong thermals, gorgeous scenery, good weather and multiple landing fields make this a beloved destination for both paraglider and hang glider pilots.
Although it takes special training to fly solo, anyone can sign up for a tandem flight with local outfitter Sundog Paragliding School. These pros launch from Woodrat April through October. This is wine country, so you may touch down at LongSword Vineyard. Toast your flight with a glass of semi-sparkling chardonnay (a local favorite!).
It’s good to remember, when we walk in the woods and through the meadows, up the mountain and across the rivers, that we step where other feet have trod, that we are a part of the history of these mountains just as were the people who came before us. –Diana Coogle, Applegate author
A long day wandering calls for a good night’s sleep. There are many ways to overnight in the Applegate Valley: A grand river lodge, dozens of bed & breakfasts, yurts, cabins, tent spots –even a gussied-up covered wagon!
All of our wineries serve food, ranging from simple cheese-and-cracker plates to elaborate charcuterie boards to full-blown meals.
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