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!

Directions: From Prospect, ACCESS #1 : (Lower trailhead) Drive north on Highway #62, 6 miles past the Prospect Ranger Station, to the junction of Forest Service Road #68. Turn left and continue 5 miles to the junction of road #6800-550. Turn right and follow for 3 miles to the trailhead and parking area, located on the left.ACCESS #2 : (Upper trailhead) Proceed as above on Highway #62. Turn left onto Forest Service road #68 and continue 2.5 miles to the junction with road #6510. Continue straight, leaving the pavement. Continue 2 miles to road #6510-770. Continue straight ahead on road #700 for 1 mile to Yellow Jacket Camp. Walk south 1 mile on the Rogue-Umpqua Divide Trail to reach the Golden Stairs Trail.

Elevation: 3,750 feet

Distance: 4.3 miles

Difficulty: Moderate

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