Smith Rock
The jagged rocks at Smith Rock, OR
Tucked away in Central Oregon just north of Bend lie the remnants of volcanic ash carved into a 3000 foot deep canyon by a now-sleepy Crooked River. The volcanic ash are the remnants of a fallen Crooked River Caldera from 30 million years ago.
Riverside stroll at Smith Rock, OR
Our adventure at Smith Rock started on a chilly April morning. The days before and after that morning were snowy. We made an eventual loop starting at Misery Ridge Trail on to Summit Trail to Burma Maintenance Road to Wolf Tree Trail then to part of Crooked River Trail for a total of 9 miles rt and 2000 ft gain. The many steps of Misery Ridge is probably what gave it its namesake. There is quite a bit of exposure so keep any kids closeby. The cliffs that surrounded us were majestic as was the view of Crooked River from above. Smith Rock looked to be a climber's paradise as well, with many full-sized humans looking like miniatures hanging off the cliffs.
Monkey Rock in the background, Smith Rock, OR
If I were to do it over, I would skip the Summit Trail and pick up the full Crooked River Trail connecting via Mesa Verde Trail and Misery Ridge Trail. Be sure to check the weather forecast when visiting as Smith Rock can be dangerously hot in the summer and probably icy in the winter.
A view of a balancing rock at Smith Rock, OR
| Features: | A hike to the top of Smith Rock with majestic views of the river below, going past different rock formations. The stroll along Crooked River was beautiful as well. |
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| Our Hike: | 9 mile rt, 2000 ft gain from Misery Ridge to Summit Trail (via Mesa Verde Trail) to Burma Maintenance Road to Wolf Tree Trail then to part of Crooked River Trail, many steps to climb and somewhat worn (read slippery) terrain with some exposure. |
| Fees: | $5 parking fee |
| Website: | For the most updated information, please visit Smith Rock |
| Caution: | Winter hiking may be icy/snowy/slippery; Summer hiking may be dangerously hot. Check weather conditions before heading out. |
| Accommodations: | Glamping at Tumalo State Park yurt |
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