Gold Beach
Jet Boat Tours - At Gold Beach, the mighty Rogue River reaches the ocean. Take a ride up the scenic Lower Rogue River on speedy "jet boats," skimming over white water rapids, passing through narrow gorges, surrounded by remote back country mountain scenery. Watch for bald eagles in the trees, deer on the river banks, and turtles paddling in the water. Kids can be any age, but not a great idea for kids under 4, as the tour lasts all afternoon, about four hours. Trips are May to October.
Slather on lots of sunscreen, the boats are open and it's bright on the water. If you're wearing a hat, make sure it has a chin strap the hat doesn't blow off. Have layers of clothing, it's cooler on the coast, much warmer inland, up the river.
Tip: From Gold Beach, a narrow road goes east, through Agness, over the mountains to Grants Pass. On the map this road might look like a convenient route from the coast to Interstate 5, but it's a very challenging road, even in summer. We wouldn't recommend taking it unless you have a four wheel drive and are very comfortable with mountain road driving.
