Scenic Byways, Shortcuts, and Nearby Destinations

Orleans is off the beaten path, but there are a number of ways to get here and several routes to connect the Klamath region with other areas of interest in Northern California and Southern Oregon.

The Redwood Coast

Bald Hills Road connects the Klamath River with the Redwood Coast via a gorgeous drive through a section of Redwood National Park that few visitors know. You'll see grassy meadows, sweeping views of the ocean, and, if you drive it in spring, you may be lucky enough to catch the lupines in bloom. Bald Hills Road is mostly dirt, and a bit bumpy at the summit, but it's well maintained and passable by 2WD vehicles. Call us or check with the Redwood national Park service for current road conditions.

The Salmon River

With it's headwaters in three of California's largest Wilderness areas - the Marble Mountains, the Russian and the Trinity Wilderness; the Salmon is one of the most pristine rivers in the lower 48. The windy Salmon River Road is the opposite of a shortcut, but if you have the time you'll see some beautiful country.

Ashland, Oregon via State Route 96

Home of the world class Oregon Shakespeare Festival, Ashland is a 2.5 to 3 hour drive from Sandy Bar Ranch, via route 96, a beautiful route that takes you through the Klamath River canyon. 

Jefferson Scenic Byway over the Siskiyou Mountains 

The Grayback--Happy Camp Road connects the town of Cave Junction in Southern Oregon with the town of Happy Camp on the Klamath River, 45 miles north of Orleans. It's a beautiful drive through the Siskiyou high country and a great shortcut, to or from I-5 in Southern Oregon. Closed in winter due to snow