Bear Creek Greenway

The Bear Creek Greenway offers a pleasant jogging experience on its paved, multi-use path, winding through a mix of natural creek-side woods and urban landscapes. You'll find peaceful views of Bear Creek, especially in sections south of Medford, where the trail feels more secluded. The wide asphalt surface is generally well-maintained, making it a smooth run for most, though some minor root heaves are present.

This moderate 6.0-mile (9.6 km) jogging route features a minimal 76 feet (23 metres) of elevation gain, making it accessible for many, and can be completed in about 59 minutes. Parking and amenities like restrooms and water are available at various parks along the greenway, such as Bear Creek Park. It's a great option for a quick, easy run, but be aware that some sections parallel busy roads, introducing traffic noise.

The Bear Creek Greenway is a vital link, connecting five communities and eight parks, providing a safe, separated path for non-motorized users. It's part of a larger vision to connect to the Rogue River Greenway, creating an extensive network for outdoor enthusiasts. The trail also passes notable points of interest like the Medford Railroad Park, an outdoor train museum, adding a unique touch to your run.

The Bear Creek Greenway loop from Saint Mary's School offers a pleasant jogging experience, winding through creek-side woods and natural areas that provide opportunities for birdwatching. While much of the 4.8-mile (7.8 km) route is a peaceful escape, you'll also encounter sections paralleling Interstate 5, which can be noisier. The mostly paved surface makes for a consistent run, though some parts, particularly heading north, involve a steady uphill climb, contributing to its moderate difficulty and 88 feet (27 metres) of elevation gain over an estimated 48 minutes.

For planning your visit, the trail is well-maintained and connects to several parks like Hawthorne Park and Bear Creek Park, which offer amenities such as restrooms and water. Parking is available at these parks, making access convenient. The route is well-marked with mile markers, and benches are placed along the way for quick rests. It's a great option for a reliable, accessible jog.

The Bear Creek Greenway is a significant regional asset, a 20.6-mile (32 km) paved multi-use trail connecting several cities in the area, including Ashland and Medford. This particular loop from Saint Mary's School showcases a segment of this larger network, providing a separated route from car traffic. Historically, discussions for a dedicated path here date back to 1899, highlighting its long-standing importance to the community.