Walk Ashland! No, really…

Those of us that love to hike know that there are gazillions of picturesque neighborhoods, trailheads, parks and paths, most of which are accessible right from the inn. You can walk just up the hill to access the trailheads above Lithia Park, just down the hill to stroll main street with its stores and boutiques, or venture beyond to explore the Railroad District and admire the historic homes.

But there’s more to Walk Ashland than just walking Ashland — it’s also the name of a local tour company founded by Peter Finkle, a longtime Ashland resident and passionate history buff. Walk Ashland makes it easy to explore the history, art, culture and heritage of Ashland through a variety of guided walking tours, illuminating the town with history, stories, facts and anecdotes.

Founded in 1852 as an agricultural and mill town, Ashland has been a hub of culture and education from its earliest years. Whether its diving into the history of the Rogue Valley, the establishment of Ashland Mills by pioneers, or the centuries of local habitation by the Shasta and Takelma tribes, Peter’s historical tours bring Ashland’s past to life. You can enjoy detailed accounts of the many neighborhoods and gardens, the local art— or try the Haunted Ashland tour and hear first-hand accounts of encounters with “real live” ghosts at the Oregon Shakespeare Festival!

You can read Peter’s bio, peruse the archival blog, and sign up for walking tours at the Walk Ashland site, HERE. And if you take a tour and enjoy it, be sure to let our innkeeper Dean know so he can recommend it to other guests!