[stevefromdodge]

Smith Rock has been on my list to do for over a year. It's extremely well known among rock climbers, but there are some good hiking trails, too. On my way back from the painted Hills last year, I dropped in and saw this trail.

I just had to go back. Yesterday, I finally did. The view from the rim is as impressive as ever.

I went right down to the footbridge and started right up the Misery Ridge Trail. This one is fairly steep, but it's only about 700 feet of gain in about 7/10 of a mile. There's no shade though and it would be truly miserable on an August afternoon. Here are some shots on the way up.

At the top of the trail, there's a great view looking back the way we came. The the trail works it's way around the upper area taking in views from all angles.

There's a free standing pillar on the west side called "Monkey Face" for obvious reasons.

Here's a little cave that Micah found. It proved a good opportunity to discuss rattlesnakes, after I checked to make sure it was clear.

The hike back was a lot easier, if longer. The route back on the River Trail is almost 2 miles long, but it's comparatively flat.

If you do this one, take a lot of water and get an early start to beat the heat.

[bobbi]

i was just there we basically have the same photos! it's a great place... thanks for reminding me of the fun i had just a few days ago

[stevefromdodge]

Yeah, it was your trip report that reminded me I needed to get out there! Thanks!

[yew]

Smith Rock - great place. Like a little piece of Southwest US terrain in central Oregon. Hike down Squaw Creek on the Crooked River Grassland to the Deschutes River Canyon. That's a great hike! The Badlands east of Bend were recently designated Wilderness area. That's a decent place to hike too but old, sandy double track can make for difficult hiking.

[Hikingqueen]

Ahh, the popping red colors along the river.. that was so beautiful!

[Go Jo]