Golden Stairs Trail

Named in part from the Abbott Brothers alleged gold mine in the area, the Golden Stairs Trail traverses the southern ridge of Falcon Butte. The trail passes through several vegetation zones, beginning at the lower end in a true-fir forest. Before reaching the Rogue-Umpqua Divide, hikers are offered vistas of the Abbott Creek, Woodruff, and Falcon Creek drainages. Beginning at the lower trailhead, the trail climbs up a rocky ridge for 2.5 miles. Views to the west include Abbott Butte and the rocky face of Elephant Head. The next mile has a gentle uphill grade, passing through open areas that provide vistas of the Crater Lake Rim. The last 1.5 miles wanders through tall timber and rocky openings until the trail merges with the Rogue-Umpqua Divide Trail. There are no reliable water sources along the way. Flowers in June are absolutely beautiful in this area!