smith rock state park oregon

Visit Smith Rock State Park: Soaring Cliffs in Oregon

This site may contain affiliate links. We may receive a commission for purchases made through these links.

Incredible rock formations of volcanic origin, impressive canyons formed by the Crooked River, breathtaking views, a must-see for wilderness lovers… This is how Smith Rock State Park in Oregon can be described at first glance. Let’s find out more about this park in the Northwest United States and how to plan a visit.

What is Smith Rock State Park?

things to do in smith rock state park
Misery Ridge Trail

Smith Rock State Park, one of the state’s most beautiful parks, is located in Central Oregon in the High Desert, an area that encompasses five counties (Deschutes, Crook, Harney, Lake, and Malheur). This geological formation was formed about 30 million years ago as a result of the sinking of a volcano and the subsequent layering of rocks. The park, as you visit it today, is composed of layers of volcanic ash, tuff, and rock fragments. The patient work of erosion by the Crooked River that runs through it did the rest, giving us hollowed-out walls that plunge down into the river.

Location and Directions

The park, considered one of Oregon’s seven wonders, is nestled between Terrebonne and Prineville, two small towns along Highway 97. Located near Terrebonne, it can be reached by taking the Crooked River Hwy, a super scenic road full of curves (and consequently, a road that is a popular choice for motorcyclists) that flanks the river of the same name, as well as rock formations unique to Smith Rock State Park. Thanks to this road, you can reach both the trails that go into the protected area and the Visitor Center (Welcome Center), where you can park your car.

The nearest major Oregon cities to the Park are Portland, Eugene, and Salem, which are 142 miles along the Santiam Hwy SE, 134 miles via the Dalles-California Hwy, and 138 miles via the Santiam Hwy SE, respectively.

Hours and Tickets

smith rock hours

To enter the Park, you will need to buy a day pass (valid for one car or motorcycle), which costs $5 and is available for purchase at the three parking lots. The park is open daily from sunrise to sunset. However, it should be noted that the Welcome Center is only open to visitors from 8:30 am to 1:00 pm on Saturdays and Sundays.

Things to Do in the Park

smith rock park things to do

To best enjoy the beauty of this park you should get out of the car and go hiking or do other activities.

Hiking Trails

smith rock park hiking trails

Whether you are an experienced hiker or just a nature lover, Smith Rock State Park offers solutions for everyone, even families with children (but it is not suitable for babies or toddlers because there are no stroller-friendly trails). Here is a selection of 6 trails, 3 easy ones and 3 challenging ones.

  • Rim Rock Trail (1 mile for 23 ft of elevation gain). Ideal for beginners who don’t want to rush into a difficult hike, this trail is punctuated by comfortable benches strategically placed at the most breathtaking viewpoints near the Christian Brothers, Dihedrals, and Morning Glory rock walls. Particularly beloved by children, wildlife (such as Canada Goose, birds of prey, and Bullock’s orioles) and endemic plants (in this regard, near the Welcome Center there is the Native Plant Garden, which gives visitors a glimpse of some of the park’s most popular flora varieties) can be seen along this trail. The Rim Rock Trail can be hiked in as little as 20 minutes.
  • Wolf Tree Trail (2.7 miles for 406 ft of elevation gain). Versatile and exciting, this trail can be experienced on foot, by bike, or on horseback and is a perfect mix of scenic spots, animal sightings (don’t forget to bring binoculars!), and amazing rock formations. The most stunning spots encountered along the hike are the Red Wall, Ship Rock, and the Monument Area. Two examples of the animals that inhabit these places and can be spotted are blue herons and birds of prey. Finally, there are beautiful yellow pines that provide shade from the hot sun and that dot the Wolf Tree Trail. The hike takes, in total, approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes.
  • Canyon Trail (3.3 miles for 440 ft of elevation gain). An easy and suitable trail even for families with children, the Canyon Trail starting at the Welcome Center is perfect for those who are not particularly trained but still want to savor, to the fullest, the beauty and wonders of the park. It gives hikers the privilege to view some of the most famous areas such as The Dihedrals and Christian Brothers, which have also become extremely popular internationally as climbing spots, the Canyon Trail winds along the river and reaches vantage points where you can admire the Smith Rock Group, iridescent rock pinnacles, and the Phoenix Buttress, an imposing red-purple rock face. The duration of the hike on the Canyon Trail is about 1 hour and 25 minutes.
  • Rope de Dope Trail (1.3 miles for 328 ft of elevation gain). Don’t let the length or the elevation gain fool you: this trail is one of the most challenging ones to hike. It starts right at the climbing wall of the same name and winds upward between uphill routes and wooden stairs leading upward to reach the summit overlooking the canyon. At the top, there are spectacular views of the river below and the entire park. For experienced hikers, however, the trail can take about 40 minutes to complete.
  • Misery Ridge Trail (2.2 miles for 1115 ft of elevation gain). This trail is not recommended for beginners, because it is one of the most challenging ones in the park. The name conjures up ancient images of pioneers intent on making the grueling journey on wagons. In fact, the hike to the summit is no joke. But it is amply rewarded by the natural spectacles one encounters on the way. The most striking viewpoints are, without a doubt, the Picnic Lunch Climbing Wall and the Red Wall. Along the way, as you climb to the summit, you will cross a stone bridge. From there, the view of the Monument Area is truly breathtaking. However, the trail does not end there. In fact, the area to reach is the one that overlooks the Monkey Face, a favorite location for slackliners. The Misery Ridge Trail can be completed in about 1 hour and 30 minutes.
  • Burma Road Trail (7 miles for 1151 feet of elevation gain). Steep and extremely challenging, this trail was completed in 1945 and served, at the time, to reach tunnels and irrigation canals within the park (which are in operation to this day). Along the way, several of the park’s most beautiful and scenic spots, such as Staender Ridge and Marsupials, can be seen. As one of the longest trails in Smith Rock State Park, the Burma Road intersects with other trails and, therefore, you can lengthen it to your liking. The Burma Road Trail also lends itself to biking and horseback riding. On foot, it takes about 3 hours and 10 minutes.

Rock Climbing

smith rock park climbing

Smith Rock State Park is widely considered the birthplace of rock climbing in America. Thanks to the relentless weathering over the centuries, the walls have been transformed into what we see now and have become perfect for high-altitude thrill seekers. The three most beloved and popular rock climbing areas are as follows:

  • The Gorge. Giant, soaring basalt columns, The Gorge (upper and lower) is a must-see for climbers and has become popular since the 1950s. Depending on whether you are at the walls east or west of the site, you can climb spots such as the Student Wall, the Lower Gorge, and the Upper Gorge, which is one of the most difficult and challenging locations in the park.
  • Monkey Face. This rock, which is 106 feet high, draws rock climbing enthusiasts who want to accept the challenge of climbing one the most difficult in all of America. Although not recommended for beginners, climbing the Monkey Face provides one-of-a-kind thrills and adrenaline rushes.
  • Monument Area. This area is also recommended for experienced climbers, since part of the rock face is crumbly and can, therefore, deceive amateur rock climbers. The two most heavily climbed areas of Monument Area are Little Three Fingered Jack and Staender Ridge. The charm of the Monument Area is greatly admired, even by Golden Eagles that choose its recesses to build sheltered nests in which to lay their eggs. Of course, during the nesting period, the area is closed to climbers.

Bike Trails

smith rock park bike trails

There is nothing better than hopping on your bike and venturing out to explore the park on two wheels. Whether it’s a mountain bike or a pedal-assisted bike, Smith Rock State Park also lends itself well to adventurous rides on a bicycle. Some of the trails for cycling are the same as those you would take on foot (while others are off-limits to bikes). Among the most popular, these deserve special mention:

  • Summit Loop Mountain Bike Ride (7.4 miles). The Summit Loop, which starts and then returns to the Welcome Center, takes cyclists literally to the summit, but not only that. Those who go can fully experience the park by passing both along trails that skirt the river and by crossing bridges that connect rock walls of iridescent red and brick colors. The beauty of the view from the top at more than 3200 ft above sea level is indescribable. On the left, you can admire the Monument Area, while on the right, there is the towering Red Wall caressed below by the river current.
  • River Trail (2,5 miles). Suitable for everyone, beginners and non-beginners alike, including families with children, the River Trail runs almost entirely along a flat course. This trail passes through virtually every popular spot in the park, including the Christian Brothers, the Smith Rock Group, and Monkey Face. As you follow the river, we suggest paying attention because you can often spot deer drinking the crystal clear waters, as well as waterfowl, otter families, and blue herons.

Slackline

smith rock park oregon guide

Have you ever heard of slacklining? It is an activity that requires lots of balance that is practiced by walking on a webbing stretched between one peak and another. It was first practiced in the park in 1987 by Adam Grosowsky (a truly admirable slackliner), who walked, without any protective handholds, on a rope attached to the Monkey Face. Today the sport can be practiced by anyone who wants to try it, whether novice or professional, in the countless areas dedicated to it. And it is, without a doubt, an unusual and exciting way to view the park from above.

Popular spots for slackline include the Classic Monkey Highline, the Windy Daze, and the Free Your Mind Highline. Of course, the activity is safe and controlled and is practiced with appropriate harnesses and safety ropes attached to the rope. The sport is so popular and beloved that there is even an annual festival dedicated to it in the park known as the Annual Highline Festival. Every second week in September, the event attracts enthusiasts from all over the country who “compete” in incredible highline hikes as well as suspended trails over the Crooked River Falls.

Horseback Riding

visit smith rock state park

Another way (beloved by children) to traverse the park is horseback riding, allowing you to enjoy the views and take advantage of the slow pace. Most of the equestrian trails skirt the Crooked River and, in some cases, cross it. There is nothing more exciting than fording the waters as the cowboys of old did, where the current allows. A word of advice? It is best to go horseback riding either early in the morning or at sunset when the sunlight creates magnificent kaleidoscopes of color. The three best horseback riding tours within Smith Rock State Park are the ones along the Canyon Trail, the Wolf Tree Trail, and the Burma Road Trail.

The Most Beautiful Viewpoints

smith rock state parks viewpoints

Although there are wonders to behold everywhere you look in the park, nevertheless there are some viewpoints that you must check off the bucket list of your visit, such as the view from Misery Ridge. Once you reach the summit, you will find a large, sheltered, open “cave” where I recommend you to go sit. From here, the view sweeps to the south and west of the park and the panorama includes the river with placid waters, the amazing rock formations with red and ochre tones, a privileged view of the Monkey Face, and, on clear days, you can even catch a glimpse of the peaks of some famous mountains there, such as, for example, Mount Bachelor.

Equally noteworthy is the view from the Rim Rock Trail. Along the trail, one is literally surrounded by volcanic rock formations. You will have a 360-degree view where you can admire the jagged mountain peaks, the river’s hollowed-out canyon, the huge sheer cliffs, and the Phoenix Buttress, which rises straight up from the ford of the river into the blue sky.

Monkey Face
Monkey Face

 

From the top of Summit Loop, you can get an all-encompassing view of the park. It is probably the best vantage point in Smith Rock State Park and, because of this, it is often quite crowded. Suffice it to say that there are spectacular views of the cliff faces to the right, the Crooked River gliding placidly along the millennial loops, and, to the left, the Monkey Face and the backside of the Monument Area. Speaking of the latter, even from here the view is breathtaking, revealing some gems rarely visited by park visitors, such as the tall, jagged Cajun Crags (on the west side of Monument Area), Victoria Tower, and London Tower (both virtually vertical beige-gold walls), and the legendary Anglin’s Buttress.

Standing 348 ft high, this impressive peak is named after climber Jim Anglin and is one of the crown jewels of Smith Rock State Park. While on the Rope-de-Dope Trail the view sweeps over the river-eroded canyon and the mountain of the same name, from Smith Rock there is an exceptional panorama of the amphitheater of cliff faces and tuff pinnacles rising skyward. Last, but not least, is the breathtaking view enjoyed from the top of Monkey Face. This magical view includes the Cascade Mountains in the distance, as well as a complete view of the entire park.

Places to Stay Near Smith Rock State Park

places to stay near smith rock state park

  • Bivy Area (inside the park). To fully experience the park in all its beauty (even during the night hours, when the only sounds you hear are those of the animals and the flowing river) it is possible to camp in the Bivy Area. Since reservations cannot be made, it’s “first come, first served”. Visitors are not allowed to spend the night in cars, campers, and caravans, but only in tents. The Bivy Area is open from March 15 to November 15, and there is an $8 fee per person (in addition to the car entrance fee) to stay overnight, which also gives you access to showers.
  • Loge Bend in Bend (20 miles from Smith Rock State Park). Similar to a classic motel, but much chicer, the Loge Bend is an ideal solution for those who want to find a convenient solution in a strategic location. The rooms are super cozy (and there are at least two hammocks hanging from the ceiling and bike racks in each one!) and it is within walking distance from the center of town.
  • Sleep Inn & Suites in Redmond (8.7 miles from Smith Rock State Park). Conveniently located close to the park, the Sleep In & Suites in Redmond is an elegant and affordable option, with rooms with nature-inspired designs and a relaxing indoor heated pool that is perfect for relieving any muscle tension after a day of hiking in Smith Rock State Park.
  • Kimpton Hotel Vintage in Portland (142 miles from Smith Rock State Park). The elegant Kimpton Hotel Vintage in Portland is a gem to experience, not just to rest in. In fact, the hotel organizes wine-tasting sessions and events with local artists, as well as live music concerts, for its guests. The rooms are comfortable and exclusive, with amazing views of the city.

All accommodations in the Smith Rock area

Distances to Other Major Oregon Destinations

Painted Hills
Painted Hills

Our Tip:
Looking for accommodations for your trip from California to other parts of the Southwest? Read our guide that contains reviews of hotels and strategic tips for finding accommodations near major attractions: Where to Stay: Our Tips for the SouthWest Area

Warning: Operating hours can change and closures for extraordinary events can occur, so we strongly suggest to check the venues official websites.

Annalisa
Annalisa Costantino

Annalisa, giornalista e blogger, è mamma di due gemelle, lettrice appassionata e fervente sostenitrice del forest bathing. Dopo aver visitato tutti i continenti, si dice pronta a ricominciare daccapo.

Related posts

shenandoah national park things to do

Visiting Shenandoah National Park, the most beautiful park in Virginia

One of the premier national parks on the East Coast is Shenandoah National Park, a true gem of Virginia. Established in 1926 with the purpose of “preserving and protecting the ...
things to do in Hot Springs National Park

Visiting Hot Springs National Park: History and Nature in Arkansas

In the heart of Arkansas, you’ll find the oldest hot springs in the United States. These are the thermal springs of Hot Springs, which were already used by Native Americans ...
Things to do at Wind Cave National Park

Visiting Wind Cave National Park: Bison and Ancient Caves in South Dakota

Some of the largest caves in America stretch for miles beneath the vast prairies of South Dakota, not far from the Black Hills and the Badlands. In this labyrinth of ...
how to visit Gates of the Arctic National Park Alaska

Visiting Gates of the Arctic National Park: Caribou and Adventures in the Wilderness

Gates of the Arctic National Park Preserve is one of America’s most rugged, largest and least accessible parks. It is the ideal place for those who feel like true explorers and ...

Leave a Comment

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.