Misery Ridge Trail view of Smith Rock & Crooked River (sunrise)

@chadtorkelsen

Oregon

•

Terrebonne

A standalone rock climbing out of the high desert, Smith Rock offers a landscape like nowhere else in Oregon. Getting to this unique pillar won't be easy, but it's so worth the challenging hike. Get ready to break a sweat in this playground of exploration.

Plan

Overview

Skill level

Difficult

Accessbility

Public Location

Hours

7am-7pm (no gate)

Fee

Oregon State Parks Pass Required ($5/day)

Pack

Normal lens (36mm)
Water
Sturdy hiking shoes or boots
Sunscreen (depending on the weather)
Flashlight (if you're going to hike in dark)
Snacks

How to get there

N44° 22' 05.0268"W121° 08' 30.4188"

This photo of Smith Rock was taken at Smith Rock State Park. It is around three hours away from both Portland and 40-minutes from Bend. Depending on where you're coming from, you will need to take Highway 26, 97 or I-5. Once you're in the park, I recommend parking at Canyon Trail trailhead and then following the path across the river. After you cross the bridge, all you need to do is to follow the switchbacks and Misery Ridge Trail will be right in front of you. Climb to the summit, look southwest, and you'll see this portion of Smith Rock. It would be a hike of 1.5-2 hours. You will see many other small footpaths around—I recommend cautiously exploring those as well. Be courteous and respectful of the climbers also enjoying the area—there will be lots of them!