Chasing Wilderness #2: Southern Oregon's Pilot Rock

Standing boldly among the easternmost reaches of the Siskiyou Mountains is an ancient volcanic plug known as Pilot Rock. Located 14 miles south of Ashland and 1.6 miles north of the Oregon-California border, this striking peak is a popular destination for hikers and rock climbers. The 2.8 mile out-and-back trail gains 1,000 feet of elevation and includes a short class 3 scramble to the summit. Due to the steepness of the notch one must traverse in order to reach the top, this climb should be exercised with deliberation.

I have had the pleasure of making this climb several times this year, and each trip has been an adventure. For experienced hikers, it is one of my most highly recommended day hikes in Southern Oregon. From the mountaintop, hikers are awarded with views stretching for miles into Northern California. Prominent peaks visible from the summit include Mt. Ashland, Mt. Shasta, and Mt. McLoughlin.

Interesting facts:

• The Native American Takelma tribe called this mountain Tan-ts'at-seniphtha, meaning "stone standing up."
• Pilot Rock lies within Cascade-Siskiyou National Monument.
• According to the Bureau of Land Management, 9 planes have crashed into Pilot Rock since 1942, mainly due to low hanging clouds and low visibility.
• The Pilot Rock trail intersects the PCT (Pacific Crest Trail) and many through-hikers take this short and worthwhile detour.
• The total elevation is 5,910 ft (1,800 m).

If you are passing through Ashland, Oregon and are looking for a way to experience the astounding beauty of Oregon, look no further!