San Francisco to Medford Road Trip Guide
Introduction
It goes without saying that San Francisco, CA, is one of the most beautiful cities in the United States of America. It is a beach city but is also well-known for its skyscrapers, modern and sleek architecture, as well as, Victorian Style Buildings that add a certain glamour and appeal.
You cannot miss iconic landmarks and attractions such as the Golden Gate Bridge, the cable cars, the de Young Museum, and views of the majestic Napa Valley. If there’s a city on the west coast providing life at its finest, it has to be San Francisco.
Once upon a time, this city was home to Native American groups the Ohlone and the Miwok. They were hunter-gatherers and lived their lives close to the land. When the USA annexed California, the city only had a population of 800. Then came the gold rush and the city was later established.
San Francisco and Medford, OR, are as different as rain and sunshine, quite literally, and hence, gives you exactly what you were craving – a change. Medford has all the finer points that you'd look for in a city to tour.
The food here is enticing with great eateries beckoning you to have a taste. Wineries in this city are abundant and compliment the fine food served at many famous eateries within the city.
Then there are all the fun outdoor activities the city lures you into, including, but not limited to whitewater rafting, hiking, and backpacking. This road trip is ideal for couples looking to enjoy some time alone surrounded by scenic views, great food, wine, and comfort.
Point of Interest
Ashland
Ashland, Oregon, was greatly underappreciated until its beauty and significance were ultimately recognized two years ago when the name of the city appeared in New York’s Time 52 places to travel in the world 2018.
When you are passing by a city which gets name-dropped in such a coveted list, how do you not stop and admire it from up close? One of the biggest attractions of this city is its Shakespeare Festival, and if you are a Shakespeare fan, you have every reason to stop here.
The entire city begins to buzz with energy as 700 productions perform Elizabethan style theatrics, creating an ambiance that is magical and surreal. Another hotspot of the city is its 100-acre Lithia Park where one can enjoy front-row views of Ashland Creek that flows alongside the park.
Castle Crags State Park
Castle Crags State Park in Castella, CA, is home to granite domes and spiky pinnacles found on the summits of densely vegetated mountains. This stop is perfect for RV road trippers, as the state park provides a campground and 28-miles of trails and hikes that will take you to high elevations.
One of the largest outcrops here in the park which gets lots of attention is named Castle Crags, also the namesake of the state park. The 6000-feet tall Castle Crags is a series of extremely jagged and vertical shaped domes and pinnacles with glacier-polished peaks. They rise high above the valley, and anyone watching them from close by can't help but marvel at its size.
These huge granite outcroppings are a result of the volcanic activity that took place nearly 200 million years ago. The peak next to the Castle Crags also gets attention for its roundedness compared to its spiky neighbor and is known by the name of Castle Dome.
Shasta Dam
Your next stop would just be an hour-long stop in Redding, CA. It might be short but it's definitely worth it. The curved Shasta Dam is a gravity dam built at Lake Shasta, across the Sacramento River.
Shasta Dam is different from most other dams and receives lots of visitors because of its historical significance as well as its physical beauty. Sitting on the banks of the dam, you couldn’t help but appreciate the majestic views of the lake and Mount Shasta on the horizon.
In addition to being the largest reservoir in California that generates hydroelectricity, it also played a vital role during World War II by providing power to California’s war factories and powering the war effort.
You must take the guided tour here that will take you to the elevator which goes to the base of the dam. The tour will also take you to the inner galleries of the dam, the powerhouse, and the green and ardent areas adjacent to the dam where you can explore, cycle, and picnic with the family.
Domaine Carneros
Your first stop should be Domaine Carneros in Napa Valley where you will get to taste your first experience of fine living. Domaine Carneros Château is not just a winery, but it is established around California’s wine country landmark.
The Château was inspired by the ageless 18th century Château de la Marquetterie in Champagne, France, and was completed in 1989. Today, it is one of the few wineries around the world where you get to sit back, relax, and enjoy table service as you lounge around in the elegant salon.
You can also settle down on the terrace and enjoy the breathtaking views of the hills of Napa Valley, dotted with many beautiful vineyards. You can settle down here for a good hour or two and appreciate the finer things in life.
The Château also offers caviar, artisan, charcuterie, and cheese plates. You can also take a walk into the patio with your wines and get mesmerized by the greenness of the Carneros countryside.
Summary
Medford is one of those posh cities that people love to be pampered in. Located in the Rouge River Valley, just north of the California border, Medford is rich in local wine culture. Places like Belle Fiore’s chateau set the bar high when it comes to elegance and exquisiteness.
One look at his chateau and you wouldn’t be able to resist the pull. The city has so much to offer that it will keep your palate satisfied no matter what your interests might be. The next best thing about Medford is the Rouge River and the many recreational activities it offers.
You can experience the high adrenaline rush of jet boating and zip-lining here. Other highlights of this perfect RV road trip destination include Medford Railroad Park, Crater Lake National Park, Oregon Caves National Monument & Preserve, and the super-scenic Applegate Lake.
