Galice-Hellgate Back Country Byway

The Galice-Hellgate National Back Country Byway is a 39-mile-long scenic motor route starting from Interstate 5 near Merlin ("Gateway to the Rogue") and progressing along the Rogue National Wild and Scenic River. The Byway travels past majestic vistas of a deep and rocky river canyon, densely wooded hillsides, and whitewater rapids. Motorists progress into the Siskiyou Mountains along one portion of the route, climbing up and away from the river and topping out into a high altitude forest environment offering spectacular views of nearby mountains and stands of Douglas fir. This portion of the route eventually takes travelers to Gold Beach and the Oregon coast.

From Grants Pass, Oregon take I-5 north to the Merlin exit. The byway begins as you exit the freeway and travel the Merlin-Galice Road west. Four miles into the route you will travel through the town of Merlin.