State: Oregon
Location: Rogue River National Forest
Length, Round Trip: 28 miles
Trail Type: Out and Back
Minimum Elevation: 1950 feet
Maximum Elevation: 4950 feet
Best Season: June to October
Difficulty: Easy
Usage: Light
Trail Information
This ride is one of the most popular among locals, looping through the National Forest above Ashland. Though not technically difficult, the ride is strenuous, with a total elevation gain of approximately 3000 feet. The decomposed granite surface road is narrow, winding and often rutted. Bikers should control their speed of descent and be especially watchful for oncoming cars and trucks. Carry sufficient water and a snack or lunch.
The Lithia Loop is predominantly within the Ashland Watershed, which is the source of the city’s water supply. Special consideration should be given to its protection. The entire watershed may be closed to all entry during the mid summer and fall when fire danger is high. No camping or campfires are allowed. Riders must stay on the roads. Use of the area is not recommended in rainy weather or when the soils are wet.
Lithia Loop starts and ends in Ashland’s Lithia Park (el. 1,950 feet). From the Upper Duck Pond, ride up Granite Street along Ashland Creek about one mile. When you come to the fork in the road above the siltation dam turn left on to Glenview drive and follow it 1/2 mile to Ashland Loop road. When you reach the National Forest Boundary, Ashland Loop Road becomes Forest Road 2060. Forest Road 2060 loops above the East and West Forks of Ashland Creek, reaching an elevation of 5000 feet and re-enters the City of Ashland above the siltation dam. Follow Granite Street back to your starting point. Total distance is about 28 miles - beginning with a steep 6 mile uphill, followed by 15 miles of level and rolling grade and ending with a steep 7 mile descent (average ride time 3 to 5 hours).
To avoid the steep climb and descent drive the first 6 miles to Four Corners, at the junction of Forest Road 2060, 2080600 and 2080200. Park here and ride the easier section out and back.
Directions
From the Ashland Ranger Station:
Drive west on Highway 66 for 1 mile to Siskiyou Boulevard. Turn right on to Siskiyou Boulevard and continue another mile. Siskiyou Boulevard becomes Lithia Way (one way). Continue a few blocks to North Pioneer Street and turn left. Continue on North Pioneer to East Main. Cross East Main and jog right toward the Plaza. Turn left on to Winburn Way and follow it up through the park to the Upper Duck Pond.
