Grave Creek to Marial is in southwest Oregon about 28 miles northwest of Grants Pass. The byway can be reached from the Cow Creek scenic byway or the Galice – Hellgate byway. It begins at Grave Creek and travels northwest to the road’s end in Marial. The 33-mile route follows Mount Reuben (BLM 34-8-1), Kelsey Mule, and Marial Roads, which are a combination of single-lane paved and gravel roads suitable for passenger cars. Motorhomes and vehicles pulling trailers should not attempt the byway. All the roads are closed in winter.
This byway is an excellent extension of the Galice – Hellgate byway. The route climbs out of the Rogue River Canyon and winds through the beautiful mountains before descending back to the river and Rogue River Ranch. Spectacular views of the wild river are found along the byway. Wildlife observers will want to look for elk, deer, and wild turkeys. Black bears also inhabit the area.
Near the beginning of this byway is a hiking trail that takes you to the scenic Rainie Falls. Also nearby is the trailhead to the Rogue River National Recreation Trail. Hikers and backpackers can take the trail along the banks of the river from Grave Creek to Marial, a distance of 24 miles. The trail continues south from Marial for an additional 16 miles to Illahe, crossing the Siskiyou National Forest.
Historic Rogue River Ranch lies at the end of the byway. It has a history dating back to the late 1800s when all that existed was a one-room “sugar pine shake” cabin. In the years that followed, the pioneer Billings family added more buildings including a barn and a trading post. The ranch was sold to the Bureau of Land Management in 1970 and now operates a museum depicting the ranch’s history.
Camping is available at the Tucker Flat Campground, which offers ten sites. Be prepared to bring your own water or draw from Mule Creek. Be sure to purify the water from the creek before consuming.