Smith Rock State Park in Terrebonne, Oregon, occupies a canyon where the Crooked River winds beneath 400-foot rhyolite and tuff spires rising from the high desert of Deschutes County. The park is widely recognized as the birthplace of American sport climbing — routes pioneered here in the 1980s set technical standards adopted globally, and today more than 1,800 numbered routes ascend cliff faces ranging from beginner slabs to elite multi-pitch routes rated 5.14. For non-climbers, the park's 12 miles of hiking and mountain biking trails deliver extraordinary desert scenery with minimal technical demands. The Misery Ridge Loop — approximately 4.3 miles with 750 feet of elevation gain — is the signature trail, ascending steep switchbacks to a ridge that frames Monkey Face, a freestanding 350-foot volcanic plug with a natural cave visible at eye level. Monkey Face's summit is accessible only to expert climbers, but viewing points from Misery Ridge and the River Trail below bring visitors within striking visual range of the formation. The River Trail (2.9 miles one-way) follows the Crooked River at canyon floor level, where golden eagles, prairie falcons, mule deer, and river otters inhabit the corridor. Morning light on Monkey Face from the park entrance area is one of the most-photographed scenes in Oregon. Sunrise and golden hour cast warm tones on the rhyolite walls; midday in summer brings intense heat above 95°F (35°C). The parking area requires a $5 vehicle day-use fee, purchased at the self-pay kiosk at the entrance. A limited weekend shuttle operates from Bend in peak season.
Good to know
- Hours
- Open daily sunrise to sunset
- Best time
- Spring (March–May) and fall (September–October) for climbing and hiking; avoid summer midday heat
Location
9241 NE Crooked River Dr, Terrebonne, OR 97760
44.3685, -121.1430 View on map
Highlights
- Misery Ridge Loop: 4.3-mile trail with 750 feet of gain and panoramic views of Monkey Face
- Monkey Face: 350-foot freestanding volcanic plug with natural cave, a landmark of world sport climbing
- 1,800+ climbing routes from beginner slabs to 5.14 multi-pitch on rhyolite and tuff walls
- River Trail along the Crooked River with golden eagles, otters, and prairie falcons
- Dramatic morning and sunset light on canyon walls and spires year-round
Tips for visiting
- Start hiking by 7 AM in summer; midday temperatures exceed 95°F and exposed trails have no shade
- Day-use fee is $5/vehicle at the self-pay kiosk at the park entrance
- Monkey Face's summit requires advanced technical climbing skill and gear — the trail alone does not lead to the top
- Binoculars significantly enhance wildlife spotting along the River Trail, particularly for eagles and falcons
- A weekend shuttle from Bend's Hawthorne Station provides an alternative to driving; check Bend Park and Recreation for current schedule
- Bring more water than expected — the canyon reflects heat and there are no water sources on trail
When to visit
Spring (March through May) and fall (September through October) offer the most comfortable temperatures for hiking and climbing. Summer mornings before 9 AM are manageable; midday heat makes afternoon activity hazardous.
Accessibility
The park entrance and visitor area have paved surfaces and accessible restrooms. The Valley Trail along the Crooked River is partially accessible on compacted gravel. Misery Ridge and most climbing access trails involve steep uneven terrain unsuitable for wheelchairs.
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Frequently asked questions
Can beginners hike at Smith Rock State Park?
Yes. The River Trail and Canyon Trail at valley level are moderate and accessible to most fitness levels. The Misery Ridge ascent is strenuous with steep loose sections but does not require technical gear or climbing experience.
Is rock climbing equipment required to enjoy Smith Rock?
No; most visitors hike the trails without climbing equipment. Guide services operating out of Redmond and Bend offer guided half-day and full-day climbing lessons for beginners at the park.
Is photography allowed at Smith Rock?
Photography is fully permitted throughout the park. Commercial shoots require a permit from Oregon Parks and Recreation. The best light is at sunrise on the eastern faces and one hour before sunset on the western walls.