There’s nothing quite like the feeling of hitting the road with the top down in a Ford Mustang, especially when you’re surrounded by the natural beauty of Southern Oregon. From winding mountain roads to peaceful riverside routes, there are plenty of places aroudn Ashland to take a lovely scenic ride. And let’s be honest—everything looks a little better when you’re behind the wheel of a Mustang, engine purring, and crisp mountain air filling your lungs.
Whether you’re looking for a quick morning drive, a weekend escape, or just a new reason to take your Mustang out for a spin, these scenic drives near Ashland promise views, curves, and charm at every mile marker.
Dead Indian Memorial Road
Despite its name, Dead Indian Memorial Road is one of the most peaceful and scenic routes around Ashland. Starting just a few minutes from downtown, this winding road takes you through dense pine forests, rolling meadows, and breathtaking high-elevation vistas that feel like they belong in a postcard.
Perfect for fall leaf-peeping or springtime wildflower spotting, the elevation changes and sweeping turns make this a fun and dynamic drive for Mustang lovers. There’s even a small pull-off viewpoint about halfway up where you can take in views of the Rogue Valley below. Bring a thermos of coffee, roll the windows down, and enjoy the serenity.
Emigrant Lake Scenic Loop
Looking for a shorter loop with water views? The Emigrant Lake Scenic Loop offers a gorgeous ride around one of the area’s most picturesque reservoirs. Just southeast of Ashland, the drive wraps around Emigrant Lake’s peaceful shoreline, offering stunning views of the surrounding Siskiyou foothills.
There are plenty of places to pull off and take photos or even enjoy a lakeside picnic. The road itself is smooth and curvy—just the right mix for your Mustang to glide effortlessly around each bend. Whether it’s sunrise or golden hour, this loop never disappoints.
Green Springs Highway (OR-66 East)
For drivers who love a mix of natural beauty and fun twists and turns, Oregon Route 66 (Green Springs Highway) is a must. This scenic route starts in Ashland and heads east into the Cascade foothills, offering a peaceful forest escape just minutes from town.
Expect a mix of sharp corners, scenic overlooks, and dense pine landscapes, with very little traffic, especially on weekday mornings. Fall brings bursts of golden and crimson foliage, and in the spring, the roadside is sprinkled with wildflowers. It’s a pure joy to drive, especially in a car like the Mustang that hugs the road with power and grace.
Bear Creek Valley Drive (Old Hwy 99)
Running parallel to I-5, Old Highway 99, also known as Bear Creek Valley Drive, offers a relaxed and charming alternative to the interstate. It takes you through fruit orchards, rolling farmland, and small towns like Talent and Phoenix, giving you a closer look at Southern Oregon’s agricultural beauty.
There’s something timeless about this route—the roadside barns, quiet farm stands, and glimpses of Mount Ashland in the distance all add to its charm. Plus, it’s an easy and scenic way to enjoy your Mustang without getting too far from home.
Lithia Park to Mount Ashland Road
Start your journey in the heart of Ashland at Lithia Park, then head up Mount Ashland Road for a scenic climb through the Siskiyou Mountains. This drive is especially magical in fall, when the leaves transform into a fiery palette of reds, oranges, and yellows.
As you ascend, you’ll transition from lush creekside greenery to alpine forest, and on clear days, you can even see all the way into California from the upper elevations. The winding road is full of character, and your Mustang will love the changing rhythm of the drive. Bring a jacket—it gets chilly up there, even when it’s warm in town!
Wagner Creek Road – Talent, OR
Just a short drive from Ashland, Wagner Creek Road is a peaceful countryside drive that begins in Talent and meanders toward the forested foothills. The road is lined with quiet farms, horses grazing in open fields, and small creeks cutting through the trees—a truly tranquil escape from city life.
This lesser-known drive is ideal if you want solitude and soft curves to enjoy at your own pace. It’s not as high-traffic as other routes, making it a fantastic option for drivers who want to relax and soak in the views. Bonus: in the fall, the color palette is absolutely stunning.
Tolman Creek Road to Green Springs
This hidden route is a local favorite for a backroad adventure. Start by taking Tolman Creek Road south from Ashland, then connect to Green Springs Highway for a full-circle experience of mountain landscapes, thick woods, and narrow country roads.
It’s a more adventurous drive—not quite off-road, but definitely less traveled. The route passes quaint homesteads, wild stretches of forest, and occasional wildlife sightings. It’s the kind of path where you feel like you’re discovering a secret part of Oregon, all from the comfort of your Mustang’s heated seats and premium sound system.
Ashland to Jacksonville via OR-238
While Jacksonville is a well-known destination, the drive itself from Ashland via Highway 238 is worth savoring. This route winds through the Applegate Valley, showcasing hills, vineyards, and panoramic views that light up especially well during golden hour.
It’s about a 25-minute drive each way, making it perfect for a scenic evening cruise. Once you reach Jacksonville, you can stroll its historic streets or grab a coffee before heading back. It’s a picture-perfect route, especially when paired with the Mustang’s mix of classic style and modern performance.
Fall in Love with Ashland’s Scenic Drives
Ashland isn’t just a theater town or a gateway to mountain trails—it’s a driver’s paradise, especially when you’re behind the wheel of a Ford Mustang. From forested highways and lakeside loops to quiet countryside roads and mountain climbs, there are endless ways to enjoy a crisp fall afternoon on the road.
Each route offers its own unique blend of curves, views, and moments that make you want to keep driving just a little bit longer. So the next time you feel
