Panther Ridge Trail #1253
The Panther Ridge Trail follows a historic travel corridor utilized by the indigenous peoples of the area. Most of the trail follows Panther Ridge from Bald Knob to Buck Point. Approximately 95% of this trail is within the Wild Rogue Wilderness, and is closed to any kind of motorized vehicles or equipment. Most of the trail travels under magnificent stands of old-growth timber and through rhododendron and scrub oak undergrowth.
While there are many scenic parts to the trail, some deserve particular note:
- Panther Camp Meadow, which is located on a side trail about halfway along Panther Ridge
- Hanging Rock, a high outcrop at the extreme eastern end of Panther Ridge. From Hanging Rock, you have a breathtaking view into Eden Valley, and far away into the Rogue Wild and Scenic River canyon. But watch your step - the giant boulder which is Hanging Rock is situated on a sheer cliff, high above the trees below.
The trail has no water, so hikers should carry enough water along with them.
At a Glance
Open Season: | Year Round - Access limited late Fall-Spring |
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Usage: | Light |
Restrictions: | Wilderness regulations apply |
Closest Towns: |
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Water: | Not available. Surface water should be treated. |
Information Center: | Powers Ranger District |
General Information
Directions:Access from:
- Panther Ridge Trailhead-Bald Knob
- Panther Ridge Trailhead-Buck Point
- Panther Ridge Trailhead-Clay Hill
- Panther Ridge Trailhead-Hanging Rock
Activities
Day Hiking
Backpacking
Viewing Wildlife
Viewing Plants
Viewing Scenery
Alerts & Warnings
- Butte Fork Trail Bridge in Red Buttes Wilderness Closed Through July 2023
- Effective 7/27: Forest-Wide Stage 1 Fire Restrictions
- Effective 7/22: Wild and Scenic Lower Rogue River Stage 2 Fire Restrictions
- Understanding Parking and Fire Restrictions on the Illinois River
- Bear-Human Interactions on the Rise!
- Seasonal Alcohol Prohibition on Recreation Section of Illinois River