Woodrat Mountain BLM Dispersed (Medford-Ashland)

Woodrat Mountain rises above the forested ridgelines of the Applegate Valley on BLM land south of Ruch, serving double duty as one of southern Oregon's most active paragliding launch sites and a surprisingly accessible overnight perch. The summit parking area opens onto sweeping 180-degree views of timbered hills, the Medford valley lights after dark, and — most days in fair weather — paragliders arcing off the ridge from morning through sunset. The access road is a narrow, winding dirt track that rewards patience: pull-offs exist along the way for smaller rigs, and the top has accommodated everything from vans to full-size motorhomes, though drivers should take it slow on the single-lane climb.