Bear Creek Greenway: South Medford
Bear Creek Greenway: South Medford
2.7
(24)
43
hikers
01:18
5.07km
20m
Hiking
Embark on an easy hike along the Bear Creek Greenway: South Medford, a paved path that gently winds alongside Bear Creek. You'll experience pleasant views of creek-side woods and natural areas, offering a refreshing escape. This route covers 3.1 miles (5.1 km) with a minimal elevation gain of 73 feet (22 metres), making it accessible for most. Plan for about 1 hour and 17 minutes to complete this easy journey, where you might even spot local birds and wildlife. While mostly peaceful, some sections run parallel to Interstate 5, introducing a bit of urban sound to the natural setting.
This section of the Bear Creek Greenway is primarily paved, making it easily accessible for hikers, walkers, and joggers alike. You'll find the path well-maintained, with most road crossings safely managed by overpasses or underpasses, ensuring a smooth and uninterrupted experience. Benches are conveniently placed along the route, providing ideal spots for a quick rest or to simply enjoy the surroundings. Consider starting your hike in the morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and softer light.
What makes this part of the greenway particularly interesting is its proximity to the Medford Railroad Park, an outdoor train museum that adds a unique point of interest to your outing. This trail is a great example of how urban greenways can offer accessible outdoor recreation within city limits. It provides a valuable connection to nature and a convenient option for a quick, refreshing walk or run without venturing far from Medford.
Last updated: April 23, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
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5.07 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
5.01 km
< 100 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
4.49 km
379 m
193 m
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Elevation
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Monday 25 May
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This route was planned by komoot.
The Bear Creek Greenway offers multiple access points. For the South Medford section, you can typically find parking at adjacent parks like Hawthorne Park, Bear Creek Park, or U.S. Cellular Park in Medford, which are directly connected to the greenway.
Yes, the greenway is dog-friendly. Dogs are generally welcome but must be kept on a leash at all times to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all users and local wildlife.
The greenway is accessible year-round. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. Summer can be warm, so an early morning or late afternoon hike is recommended. Winter hiking is also possible, though conditions may vary.
No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to access or use the Bear Creek Greenway. It is a public multi-use trail.
The trail is primarily paved and generally flat, making it an easy experience. However, be aware that some sections may have uneven pavement due to tree roots. Most road crossings are handled by overpasses or underpasses, though there is one at-grade crossing near Talent.
Absolutely. The Bear Creek Greenway is rated as 'Easy' with minimal elevation change, making it ideal for beginners, families with children, and users of all ages and abilities, including those with strollers or wheelchairs.
You'll experience creek-side woods and natural areas. South of Medford, the views of Bear Creek are particularly striking due to recent fire recovery efforts, revealing both natural beauty and the impact of the fires. The trail also passes through several parks.
Yes, this section passes by several notable parks in Medford, including Hawthorne Park, Bear Creek Park, and U.S. Cellular Park. A unique feature nearby is the Medford Railroad Park, an outdoor train museum.
The greenway provides excellent opportunities for bird watching and wildlife viewing, especially in the creek-side natural areas. Keep an eye out for various bird species and other small animals that inhabit the riparian corridor.
While generally safe, some sections, particularly within Medford and near underpasses, have been noted to have transient encampments. It's advisable to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings in these areas.
The Bear Creek Greenway is primarily an out-and-back multi-use trail, extending for 20.6 miles connecting multiple communities. This specific section is part of that longer linear route, so you would typically hike out and back.