How Long Is Oregon’s Picturesque Rogue River From Start to End?

Written by Patrick MacFarland
Published: January 9, 2024
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The Rogue River is one of the longest rivers in Oregon. It flows from the Cascade Range to the Pacific Ocean, going in a westward direction. The Rogue River is historically one of the most important rivers in the region, but also one of the most picturesque rivers in the country. But we know that the Rogue River is one of the longest rivers, but how long is it? Let’s take a look at how long Oregon’s picturesque Rogue River is from start to end. We’ll also explore a little history of the Rogue River, the wildlife that lives in the region, and how it compares to other rivers in Oregon and the surrounding areas.

About Rogue River

Blossom Bar rapid on the Rogue River, Oregon

The Rogue River is best known for its salmon and steelhead fishing.

©christiannafzger/iStock via Getty Images

The Rogue River is known for several things, including salmon fishing, whitewater rafting, and the beautiful landscape that can provide artists with amazing paintings. The surrounding areas around the river have been inhabited by Native Americans for thousands of years. It wasn’t until the 18th century that European explorers first settled in the region. The Europeans started beaver trapping there when they first arrived. 

Today, the Rogue River remains a prized natural landscape of the state of Oregon. Unfortunately, climate change and human invasion have affected the numbers of salmon in the river. It has also affected the surrounding areas of the river. The Rogue River is one of the eight original rivers to be named in the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act of 1968. 

How Long Is It?

River in the Forest

In the 1850s, people from all over the country flocked to the Rogue River in search of gold.

©Traveler Photography/iStock via Getty Images

The Rogue River is 215 miles long. It starts in the Cascade Range in Oregon and it flows towards the West to the Pacific Ocean. The river is the third-longest river that is entirely within the state of Oregon. 

Comparisons With Other Rivers

When it comes to the length of other rivers in Oregon in comparison with the Rogue River, the Rogue River competes quite well. It is the third-longest river in Oregon. The river follows the John Day River, which is 284 miles long, and the Deschutes River, which is 251 miles long. The river bests the Malheur River, which is 190 miles long, and the Willamette River at 187 miles long.

Wildlife Along the Way

The Wild and Scenic section of the Rogue River, Oregon, USA

The Rogue River has the distinction of being only one of three rivers that starts in the Cascade Mountains and ends in the Pacific Ocean.

©christiannafzger/iStock via Getty Images

The area surrounding the Rogue River is one of the most biodiverse places in the state. The river flows through dense forests that are home to many animals. Some of the animals that we see along the Rogue River include the American black bear and the black tail deer. Up in the sky or roaming around near the water, you may get the chance to see bald eagles, Canada geese, and even woodpeckers. In the river, you will, of course, find salmon and steelhead.

Conclusion

And there you have it, the Rogue River is 215 miles long. It starts with the Cascade Mountains and runs westward to the Pacific Ocean. It has been one of the most important rivers since Indigenous tribes lived there centuries ago. The Rogue River is one of the longest rivers entirely within the state of Oregon. If you trek to the Rogue River, take in its amazing beauty and the surrounding areas that will be awe-inspiring.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © Foto-Jagla.de/Shutterstock.com


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About the Author

Patrick Macfarland is a writer at A-Z Animals primarily covering travel, geography, and history. Patrick has been writing for more than 10 years. In the past, he has been a teacher and a political candidate. He holds a Bachelor's Degree in Political Science from SDSU and a Master's Degree in European Union Studies from CIFE. From San Diego, California, Patrick loves to travel and try new recipes to cook.

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