GRANTS PASS Grants Pass is located in southern Oregon about 60 miles north of the California border in Josephine County. It is a town filled with beauty, history and scenic attractions. Downtown Grants Pass has earned the distinction of a National Historic District because of its historic buildings and homes. Downtown is filled with antique and collectible shops, ice cream parlors, and sidewalk espresso stands. Be sure to stroll through downtown and enjoy the beautifully restored historical buildings. Downtown is filled with antique and collectible shops, ice cream parlors, and sidewalk espresso stands. Be sure to stroll through downtown and enjoy the beautifully restored historical buildings. Grants Pass and the Rogue Valley are famous for the wonderful climate!   The highlight of Grants Pass is the mighty Rogue River flowing through town. Riverside Park is located right on the Rogue River and is a wonderful place to picnic and walk along the Rogue.   The city is often referred to the "whitewater rafting capital" of Oregon and over 25 outfitters offer rafting adventures in Grants Pass and nearby Merlin. There are jet boats that leave from Grants Pass and take visitors on a tour through Hellgate Canyon. Be sure to bring your cameras to catch the extensive wildlife on film. In 1968 the Rogue River was designated by Congress as a National Wild and Scenic river. This means that visitors have access to an unspoiled wilderness world.   Grants Pass abounds with modern campgrounds and RV facilities, many with boat ramps and riverside campsites. Josephine County has an extensive system of parks, and many of these are on the Rogue River. As far as overnight accommodations, you will find everything from motels to elegant bed and breakfast inns.   At the end of May in Grants Pass is the world famous Boatnik festival at Riverside Park. It lasts four days and the main event is a thrilling hydroboat race. Grants Pass is host to southern Oregon's largest outdoor "Growers Market". In spring and fall, the Grants Pass is awash in color with the new blooms or the fall turning of the trees, but anytime of year at all, Grants Pass is an exceptionally beautiful town.   GEOGRAPHIC LOCATION Grants Pass, elevation 935 feet, is located on the banks of the scenic Rogue River in Southwestern Oregon. It is surrounded by the foothills of the Cascade, Siskiyou and coast mountain ranges, and is only 85 miles from the Pacific Ocean. Grants Pass is the county seat of Josephine County, the headquarters for the Siskiyou National Forest and the northern gateway to the Redwood Empire of California. Crater Lake, a U.S. National Park, is 100 miles northeast, and the Oregon Caves, a U.S. National Monument, are 50 miles to the southwest. Numerous outdoor recreational opportunities abound in whitewater rafting, fishing, hunting, skiing, hiking, etc.   POPULATION City of Grants Pass 22,255 approx. Josephine County 76,000 est.   CLIMATE Grants Pass is known for its mild climate. Average annual maximum temperature is 68.0, annual minimum 40.9. Average annual precipitation is 29.5 inches. Snowfall is minimal - 2.3 inches per year and in many years is non-existent.   RECREATION Home to the Hellagte Jeatboat Excursions >> (more jetboat information further below) Josephine County offers five public golf courses, one with a driving range. Indoor miniature golf, two bowling alleys, one outdoor and one YMCA indoor swimming pool with a weight room, five tennis sites with nine courts, six racquetball courts, 12 playgrounds, 14 gymnasiums, a gymnastics center (Gymnastics By Design), a sportsman club with rifle range open to the public, and many other activities are available.   The city is within two hours of ocean beaches and mountain skiing; one hour to many high lakes and streams for fishing, boating, etc., and within minutes to river fishing, rafting/boating, camping, hunting, biking, fairgrounds and parks. Amazing May; is a month long eclectic mix of fun filled events such as the Boatnik, American Indian Arts Festival, Hot Air Balloon Rides, Art Shows, Growers Market and there is a 5-day county fair and pari-mutuel horse racing during the summer; Boatnik Festival on Memorial day weekend, the Muzzleloaders and Mountain Men Rendezvous during late august, and the reenactment of the 1846 wagon train adventure called Heritage Days are just a few of the regularly scheduled annual events in this area.   CULTURAL Musical and cultural programs are presented locally by the Rogue Music Theatre, Barnstormers Little Theater Group and the Rogue Music Theatre. The Grants Pass Museum of Art presents changing art displays. There are also art displays featured in the Wiseman Gallery at the Rogue Community College. The city of Grants Pass is also represented by all major civic groups. Grants Pass is 50 miles from the renowned Oregon Shakespearean Theatre in Ashland which offers year-around Shakespearean and contemporary performances on two indoor stages and one outdoor Elizabethan stage. The Peter Britt Summer Music Festival in Jacksonville is 45 miles away. .   MEDICAL SERVICES The Three Rivers Hospitals are full-service, community owned health care facilities. Three Rivers offers an array of services not usually found outside of metropolitan areas. Included in the hospital's services are a homelike birthing center, the area's only maternity service and American Medical Response, the hospital' critical care ambulance. Medical specialties currently represented on the medical staff of the hospital include: allergy, dentistry, dermatology, emergency medicine, family and general practice, home health, infectious diseases, internal medicine, neurology, obstetrics/gynecology, occupational health, ophthalmology, oral/maxillofacial surgery, orthopedic surgery, osteopathy, otolaryngology, (ear, nose and throat), pathology, pediatrics, psychiatry, radiology, surgery (colon-rectal, general, thoracic, and vascular) and urology.   CHURCHES AND SCHOOLS Schools: There are 10 elementary schools, a number of private, parochial, independent, vocational and pre-schools. Three middle schools, three high schools, and Rogue River Community College are also available in Grants Pass. Southern Oregon State College, a four year institution, is located in Ashland.   Churches: More than 77 churches in Josephine County represent a majority of denominations.   TRANSPORTATION Ground Transportation: Grants Pass Cab, 541-476-6444; Airport Transit Service, 541-479-3217 for service to airport; Starline Limousines, 541-476-7827 for service to all Oregon points; Greyhound/Trailways bus lines, 541-476-4513; Amtrak, 541-844-2822 (Klamath Falls) with shuttle service to Grants Pass via York Tours (541-779-1068). Auto Rentals: Budget Car and Truck Rental Center, 541-471-6311   Nearby Jackson County Airport: Major commercial airline arrival and departure, 22 miles from Grants Pass (contact airlines directly). Josephine County Airports: Facilities for light aircraft to corporate jets; Merlin Airport FBO, Grants Pass Aviation, 541-474-0665; Illinois Valley Airport, 541-474-5285.   MOTELS At least twenty-nine motels with approximately 1579 rooms and eleven Bed and Breakfast Inns within the city limits serve a large seasonal tourist population.   AGRICULTURE AND NATURAL RESOURCES Bulbs, vegetables, dairy products, beef, wheat, hay, timber and plywood, sand gravel and sulfite deposits.   GENERAL Taxes: There is a state income tax, but no sales tax in Oregon. Oregon law requires that all property, real and personal, be assessed at 100% of the true cash value. The tax is determined by multiplying the assessed value of the property by the tax rate for the code area in which the property is located.   Banks, Savings & Loan Associations, Credit Union: The institutions total six banks, five savings and loans, and one credit union, with total assets in excess of $350 million.   Radio and Television: Five Grants Pass area radio stations - KAJO, , KLDR, KAGI, KFMJ, KRWQ and KCNA AM & FM.   WEATHER Grants Pass is located in the "sun belt" of Southern Oregon. Our ideal climate provides a minimum of precipitation, unlike our neighbors to the west. Our average rainfall is just under 30 inches and we boast a very gentle wind velocity, averaging only 3.2 mph. Visitors can plan on warm, sunny days and cool, dry evenings from mid-May through mid-September.   MAJOR ATTRACTIONS The Rogue River A source of food for settlers, an inspiration to movie-makers and a home to wildlife, the Rogue River has an exciting past and a promising future. The recreational opportunities of the river are many: jetboat trips, rafting, kayaking, fishing, water skiing, swimming, gold panning or just sitting and drinking in the scenic beauty. Experienced river outfitters serve as guides to fishing enthusiasts and rafters alike. The river is diverse enough to provide the level of excitement you seek, whether it be a relaxing float or a heart-pounding whitewater adventure. Restaurants, motels and lodges along the river offer visitors a chance to enjoy briefly what we savor year round. For information on river adventure providers contact the Visitor Information Center, 1-800-547-5927 or write to P.O. Box 1787, Grants Pass, OR 97526; for Rogue River backpacking information, write Siskiyou National Forest, P.O. Box 440, 200 NE Greenfield Rd., Grants Pass, 97526 (phone 541-479-5301); Bureau of Land Management, P.O. Box 1047, Medford, Oregon, 97501.   APPLEGATE TRAIL INTERPRETIVE CENTER. Offers a glimpse into the colorful history of this rugged area through the stories of the pioneer settlers, the naming of Grave Creek, the discovery of gold, the impact of the stageline, and the building of the railroad. Located in Beautiful Sunny Valley, Come visit the Center, Old Town Hall, The famous Covered Bridge and more!   ROGUE MUSIC THEATRE Offering music theatre under the stars, Rogue Music Theatre at Rogue Community College, has Broadway-style shows with full orchestra playing July through August, plus winter shows. With such smash hits as "Oklahoma!," "Annie Get Your Gun" and "Sound of Music", the presentations feature professional actors, plus a wealth of local talent. The summer shows are held in the outdoor Rogue Concert Bowl with audiences seated on blankets and folding chairs on the gently sloping earth. (541-479-5541). Barnstormers: The Barnstormers Little Theatre, the oldest community theatre in the state, presents classic and contemporary stage offerings, leaning heavily toward comedy. (541-479-3557) From mid-July to mid-August the Chamber of Commerce and local merchant supporters present a series of free concerts in Riverside Park with music ranging from jazz to classical. Concerts, featuring local musicians, are scheduled for Tuesday evenings. (541-779-2820).   THE REDWOODS The Redwood Empire stretches from San Francisco into Southern Oregon. Visitors to Grants Pass who want to see the Redwoods may take the Redwood Highway, U.S. 199, southwest out of town heading towards Crescent City, California. Before reaching the coast, Jedediah Smith Redwood State Park will mark their entry into the Redwood Empire. The park provides campgrounds, hiking trails and access to one of America's cleanest waterways, the Smith River. Lush, dense fern growth on the forest floor with the towering Redwoods above guarantees visitors to the park an experience unique to our area.   FESTIVALS & EVENTS Amazing May is the season opener. Festivities are scheduled throughout the entire month of May. Events include the Grants Pass Museum of Art Exhibit. For information contact Hatje at (541) 479-3290. The Hot Air Balloon Tether is featured at the All Sports Park, where tethering and regular flights are available. For information contact Bill at (541) 582-2200. The Third Annual Native American Arts Festival is held at the Riverside Park on May11-12. More information may be obtained from Jack at (541) 479-8770. Man's best friend(s) will be looking their best for the All Breed Dog Show and Obedience Trials, beginning at 8am, May 18-19 at Indian Mary Park. For more information call from Lucille at (541) 479-9694. On May 19th the Third Annual Antique and Collectibles Street Faire takes place. Step back in time with an interpretive buggy ride on H Street between 5th and 6th Streets, or listen to the one man band on the corner of 5th and H Streets. Contact (541) 479-6491 for more information. BOATNIK The whole Memorial Day weekend is devoted to the annual Boatnik. This is kicked off by a parade terminating in Riverside Park, the starting point for white-water hydroboats racing 35 miles down the Rogue River and back. Activities in the park include magic and art shows, crafts, art and food booths, sky divers and water-ski shows. Horse Racing: Grants Pass Downs at Josephine County Fairgrounds features high caliber Pari-mutuel horse racing each Saturday, Sunday through the 4th of July weekend (approx). For hours and Information call: 541-476-1639   County Fair: Josephine County Fair at the fairgrounds, a mid-August old-fashioned county fair with baking, crafts and hobby contests. Includes livestock auctions, entertainment, carnival rides and even pig races. A favorite attraction is the four-wheel drive pull. (541-476-3215). Renaissance Fair: You can see knights and their fair ladies at the Renaissance Fair held for two days each year in Riverside Park. Prizes are given for the most colorful and authentic costumes. Jedediah Smith Mountain Man Rendezvous: A pre-Labor Day tradition for more than 20 years. Step back in time at this multi-day pioneer festival in Sportsman's Park. Authentic clothing and muzzleloaders turn the park into a pioneer settlement. For a complete list of festivals and events, ask for our Events Calendar. Applegate Trail: 1996 marks the 150th anniversary of the Applegate Trail. This memorial event will cover eight counties in Oregon with a total reenactment of the 1846 wagon train. The local celebration is called Heritage Days.   HELLGATE JETBOAT EXCURSIONS Hellgate Jetboat Excursions has what you are looking for...excitement, scenery and history. You an experience the thrill and adventure of an exciting jetboat trip down the famous Rogue River. There are three excursions to choose from; a 2-hour scenic canyon tour; 5-hour rough water; or a 4-hour dinner trip served down river at an old homestead overlooking the river. Location: 953 S.E 7th st. Grants Pass, OR 97526 541-479-7204 or 800-648-4874   UNIQUE ATTRACTIONS Growers' Market Growers' Market is the largest open air agricultural market in Oregon. Throughout the long growing season over a hundred entrepreneurs offer everything from vegetables, berries, fruits and herbs to bedding plants, shrubbery, baked goods and handicrafts. Location: south on Sixth St., left on "L" St. (New location planned for 1992 season). Hours of Operation: Sat. from 9 am to 1 PM, March 15 through Thanksgiving, and Tues. (same time) starting in June. Call for market times and location for the 1996 season. Food Services: Vendors on site, restaurants within 6 blocks. Parking: Ample for RV/Motorcoach. Prices: Free. Call 541-476-5375 WILDLIFE IMAGES REHABILITATION AND EDUCATION CENTER Originally started as a rehabilitation station for birds of prey, now also includes a program to aid and nurture wild animals who have been injured or orphaned. Guided tours allow groups to view this wildlife and learn about each type of animal or bird. View bears, cougars, raccoons and many other resident creatures. Location: 13 miles out of Grants Pass. I-5 exit 58 downtown on Sixth St., right on G St., to Upper River Road, to Lower River Road. Hours of operation: Open to the public for daily tours at 11am and 1pm by reservation only. Call ahead for tour arrangements. Food Services: Picnic area only. Prices/Booking: Donations gladly accepted. Gift shop also on site. Location: 11845 Lower River Rd. Grants Pass, OR 97526 541-476-0222   ART & ANTIQUES Grants Pass Museum of Art - Displaying classic and contemporary art including local artist's work. Riverside Park. The Wiseman Gallery Works from a cross section of the nation's fine and contemporary artists. Exhibits change every three weeks. Rogue Community College.   Antiques and Collectibles - Grants Pass has over 25 antique and collectable shops to explore. Maps with listings of the items each carries are available from the Grants Pass Area Association of Antique Dealers. Write to 220 S.W. 6th St., Grants Pass, OR 97526 or call the Information Center for assistance.   HISTORICAL SITES The historic Schmidt House at the corner of 5th and "I" Streets, is the present home of the Josephine County Historical Society. In addition to its past significance, built in the 1890's of locally made brick, the Schmidt House contains many interesting collections of books, photos and maps. The reading and conference room of the research library are open from 10 am to 4 pm, Tues. - Fri. For more information on this house and other historical landmarks, phone 479-7827. for a complete list of historical residences, ask for "Walking Tour of Historic Grants Pass."   R.V. FACILITIES For a complete list of private and public RV and campground facilities, please call the Visitor Information Center at 1-800-547-5927 or stop by. There are a variety of sites to meet your needs. Many are located on the banks of the Rogue River and are quite popular, so to avoid disappointment, please reserve early during the busy season.   SCENIC DRIVES Redwood Hwy., U.S. 199 Lake Selmac: Fishing, boating, swimming, camping, groceries, boat rentals, licenses, horseback riding, Selma-23 Miles. Kalmiopsis Wilderness Area: Hiking, camping, wildlife, wildflowers, lakes, creeks, Illinois River. For more information: Illinois Valley Ranger District, P.O. Box 389, Cave Junction 97523. Kerbyville Museum: Early pioneer history, artifacts on logging and mining. Kerby - 26 miles. No admission charge. Open Mon. - Sat., 10 am - 5 pm, Sun., 1 pm - 5 pm, May 15-Sept. 15. Call 541-592-2076 for more information.   MERLIN-GALICE ROAD Hellgate Canyon: Scenic viewpoint overlooks Hellgate Canyon and the Rogue River 250 feet below. Hellgate - 10 miles. Indian Mary Park: Large, scenic park and campground, beach access, boat ramp, showers, baseball diamond, picnic sites, playground. Indian Mary Park - 12 miles. Galice: The small town of Galice is a popular luncheon stop for fishing enthusiasts and rafters on their way down the Rogue River. Galice - 15 miles. Grave Creek Bridge: The bridge marks the beginning of the "Wild and Scenic" section of the Rogue, from which three-day raft trips begin. It marks the end of one-day raft trips. Bridge - 18 miles.   ROGUE RIVER HIGHWAY Savage Rapids Dam: During the seasonal runs, steelhead and salmon can be seen climbing the fish ladders at the dam. Dam - 6 miles.   UPPER AND LOWER RIVER ROAD Whitehorse Park: Take G Street west to Upper River Road, which turns into Lower River Road leading to Whitehorse Park. The lovely park offers picnic sites, hiking, beach access, showers and campgrounds. 10 miles. Griffin Park: Large, steel bridge spans the Rogue. After crossing, turn left on Riverbanks Road and follow to Griffin Park. The park features picnic sites, beach access, boat ramp, camping and a playground. Turn left onto Griffin Road. Continue on Riverbanks Road to Redwood Highway. 15 miles.   WILLIAMS HIGHWAY Applegate Valley: Take Williams Hwy. 238 South through the Applegate Valley. Stop at area wineries and the Applegate Dam. Continue on into Jacksonville. Take Old Stage Road north to Gold Hill and stop at the Oregon Vortex off Hwy. 234. Get on Interstate 5 north to Grants Pass. Round trip - 85 miles.   For more information Call the Grants Pass Chamber of Commerce at 541-476-7717   Information used by permission of RogueWeb.com & SouthernOregon.com << BACK TO MAIN AREA PAGE