IF THERE’S A SLICE OF HEAVEN ON EARTH, it’s surely found meandering through the fragrant lavender fields of the Southern Oregon Lavender Trail in late June and July. Picture this: endless rows of blooming purple flowers swaying gently in the warm summer breeze, set against the stunning backdrop of the Applegate Valley. The Southern Oregon Lavender Trail offers visual and olfactory delights and a journey through charming small towns and hidden gems. Here’s a guide to making the most of your lavender-filled road trip, replete with delightful stops along Highway 238.
Lavender Stops Along the Way—The Southern Oregon Lavender Trail is home to six beautiful farms. Each stop offers a unique experience, from U-pick lavender fields to gift shops filled with lavender products. Here are 4 of the lavender farms you will find on this trip through the Applegate Valley:
- Dos Mariposas Vineyards and Lavender Farm: This picturesque farm combines the beauty of lavender with the elegance of vineyards. Stroll through the fields and perhaps pick a bunch of fresh lavender to take home.
- Kingfisher Lavender Farm: Now in their third year on the trail, the rows of lavender look wonderful with the addition of a field of fresh flowers and homemade jellies in their gift shop.
- The English Lavender Farm: Known for its breathtaking views and delightful atmosphere, this farm offers self-guided tours and a pretty drying barn stocked with homemade lavender products.
- Goodwin Creek Gardens: A lovely family plant nursery in Williams with many varieties of lavender to choose from in their greenhouses.
Where to Begin? Dos Mariposas Vineyard & Lavender Farm—A good start is Dos Mariposas located just outside Jacksonville on Bellinger Lane. This family-friendly farm is a great place to enjoy your first sight of lavender on the trail. With a sandbox to keep the children busy, you’ll be sure to have a relaxing start to your day.
Head out to the Applegate Valley: Highway 238—Leaving Jacksonville via West California Street, head west on Highway 238, a scenic route that winds through the picturesque Applegate Valley. The rolling hills, dotted with vineyards and farms, make for a leisurely and visually stunning drive.
Next Lavender Stop: Kingfisher Lavender Farm—As you reach the town of Ruch, you will come upon signs to Kingfisher Lavender Farm on Upper Applegate Road. Their lavender is in its third year and is sure to look beautiful alongside the fresh flowers they grow. You are now on the road that leads to the historic McKee Bridge and also to Applegate Lake. Head back to Highway 238 and continue west towards the town of Applegate.
A Mid-Morning Delight: The Station Market & Café in Applegate—This new coffee shop is a local favorite, known for its expertly crafted lattes. The Station’s relaxed atmosphere and friendly baristas are the perfect accompaniment to your lavender trail exploration.
Feeling Peckish? The Applegate Country Club—This spot is a must-visit for its wood-fired pizzas topped with fresh, local ingredients and to-die-for salads. Pair your meal with a glass of Apple Outlaw Cider, made locally on Thompson Creek Road.
Still Thirsty or just want a Break? The Lindsay Lodge and the Applegate Valley Wineries—Stop by the Lindsay Lodge for a relaxing glass of wine on their beautiful riverfront deck. If you have more time, visit any of the 19 wineries on the Applegate Wine Trail. Each winery has its unique charm, from rustic and cozy to modern and chic, and you’ll find a range of varietals to suit any palate.
Afternoon Indulgence: The English Lavender Farm—Right after the green Pioneer bridge in Applegate at mile marker 18, you will see Thompson Creek Road and a sign to the English Lavender Farm. Take the scenic 8-mile drive to the farm and immerse yourself in all things lavender with stunning views and a delightful gift shop and patio where they serve lavender ice creams. Head back to Highway 238 and continue west towards Grants Pass.
Quick Stop: The Provolt Store & Deli—After a little over 4 miles along Hwy 238 you will find the charming Provolt Country Store, home to the best carrot cake you’ll ever find! Make a left turn at the store onto Williams Highway and next on the list is Goodwin Creek Gardens.
Next Lavender Stop: Goodwin Creek Gardens—This nursery on Cedar Flat Road in Williams is home to many unusual lavender plants and the owners are knowledgeable and friendly. You can wander through their pollinator garden and explore the lavender plants on display. Head back to Highway 238 via Water Gap Road.
Mid Afternoon Break: Pennington Farms—Just after you re-emerge onto Highway 238 (keep going straight ahead) you will find Pennington Farms on the right. This family-run farm offers an array of homemade jams and berry turnovers that are the perfect afternoon treat. Made with fresh berries grown on-site, these pastries are a delicious way to experience the local flavors.
Sweet Treats: Supernatural Chocolates—For an afternoon pick-me-up, head to Supernatural Chocolates. They are super-natural and almost supernatural! This small, artisanal chocolate factory/shop creates handmade chocolates that are both decadent and delightful. Their lavender-infused chocolates are a must-try.
Heading Back Home—As your day winds down, reflect on the beauty and charm of the Southern Oregon Lavender Trail. This journey through the Applegate Valley along Highway 238 is more than just a road trip; it’s an experience that indulges all the senses. From the fragrant lavender fields to the delicious local food and drink, every stop offers something unique and memorable… and there’s one last stop to make before Jacksonville.
Farm Fresh Produce to Take Home: Whistling Duck Farm—On your way back, swing by Whistling Duck Farm for some fresh produce. This farm stand offers a variety of organic vegetables, fruits, and herbs. It’s a great place to stock up on fresh ingredients if you’re planning to cook when you get home or simply want to enjoy some healthy snacks.
Jacksonville Wineries to wind down from a busy day relaxing!—The drive back to Jacksonville will be beautiful in the afternoon and perhaps a stop at one of the many Jacksonville wineries is in order. Enjoy the shade and relax with a glass of local wine as the sun sinks below the mountains.
Lavender Festival Weekends—The Southern Oregon Lavender Trail (southernoregonlavendertrail.com) schedules two lavender festivals to make it easy to remember when all that beauty is happening. This year’s lavender festival dates are Friday, June 21 through Sunday, June 23, and Friday, July 12, through Sunday, July 14—hours are 10am to 5pm on festival days. Download a festival map and description of each farm at southernoregonlavendertrail.com. See ad this page.
See you on the trail!