Muir Creek Trail #1042

Dogs Off-leash

Features River/Creek · Swimming · Waterfall · Wildflowers

The Muir Creek Trail #1042 starts at an undeveloped trailhead just off Highway 230 at the confluence of Muir Creek and the Upper Rogue River. There are no amenities at this trailhead. Note that this trailhead is on the other side of the Upper Rogue River from the Upper Rogue River Trail (#1034).

From the trailhead, the #1042 travels along the west bank of Muir Creek, a mid-sized stream and a major tributary to the Upper Rogue River. The trail passes through Douglas-fir, western white pine, western hemlock, and thickets of box alder along the meandering creek. There are views of high-mountain meadows, wildflowers, old-growth forests, and abundant wildlife.

At 2.7 miles from the trailhead, the trail passes a small waterfall/cascade where the East Fork of Muir Creek enters the main creek. At 3.6 miles, the #1042 ends at a junction with the Buck Canyon Trail #1046. This trail can be used to access the upper end of the Muir Creek Trail #1042 from Forest Road 6560-190, which is 0.3 miles to the east.

Near its northern end, the #1042 crosses Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Trail #2 - watch for signs keeping you on the #1042, which is closed to OHV traffic.

The early morning runner may spot elk and deer grazing in the river meadows. Tiger lilies, columbine, and scarlet gilia are common floral vegetation in the moist, open meadows and along the stream banks. Muir Creek is a favorite with flyfishers, as it is generally easy to wade. The fish are generally small wild trout, although occasionally anglers will hook up with a larger fish or two.