North Umpqua Trail #1414

Dogs Leashed

Features River/Creek · Views · Waterfall · Wildflowers

The North Umpqua Trail is 79 miles long. The trail is split into twelve sections ranging from 3.6 to 13.0 miles long, with various levels of difficulty. Numerous other trails, including the PCT, intersect the North Umpqua Trail. Trailheads for each section are easily accessed and clearly marked.

The following sections are CLOSED as of Sep 2020 due to the Archie Creek Fire:
Swiftwater: 8.3 miles
Tioga: 7.4 miles
Mott: 5.5 miles
Panther: 5.0 miles

The following sections remain OPEN:
Calf: 3.7 miles
Marsters: 3.6 miles
Jessie Wright: 4.1
Deer Leap: 9.6
Hot Springs: 3.5
Dread and Terror: 13.0 miles
Lemolo: 6.3 miles
Maidu: 9.0 miles

Each section of the trail has a different look and feel, and most can be done as out-and-back runs. The longer sections (Deer Leap and Dread and Terror) are best completed as one-way runs. The 9-mile Maidu section, if done as a one-way run, requires a long drive to Miller Lake to either start or end the run.

Western portions of the trail can typically be done year-round, but snow can be expected in winter at the higher elevations as you head east along the North Umpqua River.

The trail parallels the North Umpqua River, occasionally taking minor detours away from the river, climbing mostly gentle hills and providing lofty views of the river from above. Numerous creeks are traversed by small footbridges. The majority of the trail is through dense forest, comprised of Douglas-fir, hemlock, and sugar pine. Lodgepole and ponderosa pine are common at higher elevations. Wildflowers can be spectacular in the spring, and green moss abounds year-round as it clings to moisture-rich soil, fallen trees and large strewn boulders. Various types of mushrooms and other fungi also thrive in this environment.

The trail is moderately maintained. Expect downed trees and/or trail slide-outs after major storms or snowfall. It may take some time for crews to go in and clear trees off of the trail. Local Ranger Districts encourage runners to report major trail issues.

Vegetation overgrowth is typically not a problem, presence of poison oak is minimal. Ticks are usually not an issue, but can be present during warm, dry weather.

Facilities: There are vault toilets at most of the trailheads.

Conveniences with groceries, gas, and/or dining as you travel from west to east along HWY 138:
Idleyld Trading Post, Steamboat Inn, Dry Creek Store, Lemolo Lake KOA, Diamond Lake Resort