Jackson County Warns Drivers Not to Trust GPS During Winter Storm Closures

MEDFORD, Ore. (Nov 30, 2025)— With winter weather returning to Southern Oregon, county officials are again urging drivers to ignore GPS detours and avoid using rural mountain roads as bypass routes when Interstate 5 or other major highways close for safety.

Jackson County warned that when conditions deteriorate, navigation apps often redirect motorists onto steep, narrow, high-elevation backroads that are far more dangerous than the main highway—especially during snow and ice events. Officials say many drivers follow those directions without understanding the hazards.

Among the biggest problem areas is Dead Indian Memorial Road, a remote and winding route that sits roughly 1,000 feet higher than Siskiyou Pass. Despite winter restrictions prohibiting semi-trucks and warning drivers to carry chains, officials say motorists routinely divert there during closures on I-5, only to become stuck, crash, or slide off the roadway. Many travelers are unprepared and lack the equipment needed for winter mountain driving.

Similar incidents have occurred on Colestine Road, where some motorists have spent most of the night awaiting rescue from Jackson County Search and Rescue and Road Department crews. The gravel road is narrow, steep, and unmaintained after dark in the winter, despite posted signage. “It isn’t a bypass — don’t trust your GPS,” officials stressed.

Authorities also highlighted recent rescue calls involving drivers who attempted to take Wagner Creek Road toward California during storms, as well as Tiller Trail Highway 227 north of Shady Cove. Both routes are narrow, steep, and not designed to serve as alternatives when major highways close.

County officials emphasized that mapping apps only show whether a road is technically open, not whether it is safe or passable in severe weather. They urged travelers to stay on primary routes and avoid rural backroads unless they have appropriate vehicles, winter driving skills, and full emergency supplies—including chains, warm clothing, blankets, water, and food.

“Remember, the farther off the normally traveled routes you get, the farther away from help you get,” the county said. Officials also urged travelers to tell someone where they are going and to check in after arriving, ensuring rescuers know where to look if something goes wrong.