Backroad Drives & Scenic Loops — Agness, Sixes, Wedderburn & Elk River Road
Some of the best views in Curry County are just off the highway. This guide maps relaxing backroad drives and photogenic scenic loops through Agness on the Rogue River, coastal ranchlands along the Sixes River, the Wedderburn side of Gold Beach, and the crystal-clear Elk River near Port Orford.
Always check road conditions and weather; many roads are narrow and cell service can be limited—download maps before you go.
🗺️ Routes & Highlights (with maps)
Rogue River Scenic Drive to Agness
• Route: From Gold Beach, follow the Rogue upstream toward Agness.
• Why go: River bends, forested canyons, historic bridges; rafters and jet boats in summer.
• Map/Navigation: Gold Beach → Agness (map)
• Stops: Pullouts for river photos, picnic areas, and side creeks.
Elk River Road — Port Orford
• Route: From Port Orford, head inland on Elk River Rd along emerald pools and boulder gardens.
• Why go: Exceptionally clear water, swimming holes in warm weather, fall color in the canyon.
• Map/Navigation: Port Orford → Elk River (map)
• Stops: Signed pullouts; mind private property and posted access rules.
Sixes River & Cape Blanco Area
• Route: Explore roads paralleling the Sixes River; detour to Cape Blanco State Park and the lighthouse.
• Why go: Coastal ranchland scenery, lighthouse views, windswept beaches.
• Map/Navigation: Port Orford → Cape Blanco (map)
• Stops: Lighthouse overlook, beach access, roadside viewpoints.
Wedderburn Loop — Rogue River North Bank
• Route: Cross to the Wedderburn side of Gold Beach and meander short loops along the north bank of the Rogue.
• Why go: Estuary viewpoints, marina/jetty access, easy sunset stops close to town.
• Map/Navigation: Wedderburn (map)
• Stops: Jetty pullouts, marina overlooks, harbor birding.
🔄 Sample Scenic Loops
Half-Day: Gold Beach → Agness Out-and-Back
• Start: Gold Beach
• Drive: Rogue River pullouts; picnic at a riverside turnout.
• Return: Back to Gold Beach for dinner or a jetty walk.
Full Day: Port Orford Heads • Elk River Rd • Cape Blanco
• Morning: Viewpoints at Port Orford Heads
• Midday: Inland along Elk River Rd
• Afternoon: Coastal finish at Cape Blanco lighthouse and beaches
🧭 Road Conditions, Fuel & Safety
• Download offline maps; expect spotty service in river canyons and forests.
• Fuel up in Gold Beach, Port Orford, or Brookings before backroads.
• Drive cautiously: narrow lanes, blind corners, occasional gravel; watch for cyclists and wildlife.
• Respect private land and posted gates; use designated turnouts for photos.
• Check weather and river conditions if you plan water-access stops.
🗓️ Simple Day Plan (Gold Beach ↔ Port Orford)
Morning: Head north to Port Orford; coffee + quick lookouts at Port Orford Heads.
Late Morning: Drive Elk River Rd; short walks at signed pullouts.
Lunch: Picnic along the river or return to town cafés.
Afternoon: Loop west to Cape Blanco and the lighthouse; beach walk.
Evening: Return south via US-101; optional sunset stop at Nesika Beach or the Gold Beach jetty.
🏡 Want a Home Base Near Your Favorite Drive?
If exploring the Rogue River, Elk River, Sixes, or Wedderburn has you dreaming of life on the Southern Oregon Coast, Freedom Realty can help— from riverfront cabins near Agness to ocean-view homes in Port Orford and Gold Beach. Browse Gold Beach real estate, Port Orford homes, and Curry County properties with a local team that supports youth programs.
• Visit: Freedom Realty
• Call: 541-373-6302
• Email: Email Us
Office: 29917 Harbor Way Unit 422, Gold Beach, OR 97444