Six miles from Grants Pass [1] down Route 99 in the town of Rogue River is the Palmerton Arboretum (West Evans Creek Rd., Rogue River, 541/776-7001, 8 a.m.–dusk, free). Originally a five-acre nursery, the arboretum features plant specimens from around the globe, including Japanese pines and Mediterranean cedars in addition to redwoods and other trees native to the Northwest.
A real treat in the spring, the ornamental arboretum offers over 40 species of mature trees complemented by several kinds of azaleas and rhododendrons. Admission is free.
While you’re there, be sure to see Skevington’s Crossing, a 200-foot-high swinging suspension bridge over Evans Creek that connects the arboretum to Anna Classick city park.
Links:
[1] http://www.moon.com/destinations/oregon/southern-oregon/grants-pass