Planet Oregon : Brice Creek

Nestled in a densely forested valley west of Cottage Grove, Oregon, Brice Creek runs cold and clear. Flowing over and around boulders and through carved bedrock, the creed cascades over multiple drops into deep pools of swiftly moving water.

The Brice Creek area is rich with recreational opportunities. There is an abundance of mountain bike trails in the area, which are known for their technical challenges. Dozens of of choice campsites cluster near the river banks. A fantastic hiking trail traverses cliffs and meanders through a lush forest of old growth Douglas Fir, huge ferns, Vine Maples, and and a stunning variety of other plant and animals life. In some areas thick, dark green moss literally carpets the forest floor. A portion of the trail also follows an old water ditch that was used to carry water to a miner's camp back in the gold mining days of the early 1900's.

Brice Creek is also an excellent kayaker's destination when the water level is right. And the area south of Brice Creek is popular with ATV and off road motorcycle riders, although these trails are far enough from the river that noise isn't a problem.

To the right, Brice Creek Falls is a great place to take a break from your hike along Brice Creek and stop for a picnic lunch and if it's a hot day, maybe take a swim.

To get to the Brice Creek area from I-5 take exit 174 at Cottage Grove, Oregon. Go east on Row River Road past Dorena Resevior. You can drive around either side of the lake, Row River Road goes around the north side but it's shorter to go around the south side of the lake on Government Road, which meets up with Row River Road again at the top of the lake. Continue east on Row River Road and it will eventually become Brice Creek Road. The Brice Creek recreation area is located about 25 miles east of Cottage Grove. There are pit toilets in the area, but no drinking water.

Please click on an image to see a larger version.
Thanks to Karla W. for the great photos of Brice Creek!