The Misery Ridge and River Trail Loop at Smith Rock State Park is a 3.9-mile circuit in Terrebonne, Deschutes County, Oregon — widely considered the premier short hike in the high desert of Central Oregon. The park is located 9 miles north of Redmond via US-97, approximately 30 minutes from Bend. The main trailhead is at 9241 NE Crooked River Drive, with a paved parking area that charges a $5 day-use fee; no public transit serves the park.
The loop begins at the canyon floor after a short descent from the parking area to the Crooked River. The River Trail portion follows the Crooked River through the canyon bottom, passing beneath towering tuff and rhyolite spires that support one of the premier sport-climbing destinations in the United States. The Misery Ridge ascent begins near the base of Monkey Face — a 350-foot freestanding basalt spire — with a steep, rocky climb of approximately 800 vertical feet over less than half a mile. This section uses stone steps and metal railing handholds and should not be attempted in wet or icy conditions. At the ridge top, sweeping panoramas open across the Cascade Range, including Three Sisters, Mt. Jefferson, Mt. Washington, and Broken Top, along with an aerial perspective of the Crooked River canyon.
The descent from Misery Ridge follows dusty switchbacks on the west side of the ridge, rejoining the River Trail at canyon level. The full loop is commonly hiked counterclockwise — ascending Misery Ridge first — as the descent on the rocky west face is gentler than the ascent. Trail surface is compacted dirt, loose scree on the Misery Ridge face, and packed gravel along the river. Sun exposure is nearly total; the canyon walls provide intermittent shade along the river section only. At least 2 liters of water per person is essential, particularly in summer when canyon temperatures regularly exceed 90°F (32°C). A water fountain is located at the main trailhead; no water is available on the trail itself. Hikers with a fear of heights should be aware that the Misery Ridge ascent is exposed, with significant drop-offs on the east face.
Trail facts
- Trail area
- Terrebonne, Deschutes County
- Best season
- March–June and September–November (summer heat can be intense; avoid midday July–August)
What to bring
- Trail running shoes or hiking boots
- Minimum 2 liters water
- Sunscreen and hat
- Sun-protective clothing
Location
9241 NE Crooked River Dr, Terrebonne, OR 97760
44.3685, -121.1430 View on map
Highlights
- Misery Ridge summit view spanning the Cascade Range — Three Sisters, Mt. Jefferson, and Broken Top visible in one panorama
- Monkey Face — a 350-foot freestanding basalt tower with multi-pitch rock climbing routes visible from the trail
- Crooked River canyon floor traverse beneath rust-colored rhyolite and tuff formations
- High desert wildflowers on the ridge top, including bitterbrush and phlox in spring
Tips for visiting
- Hike before 10 a.m. or after 5 p.m. in July and August — canyon temperatures regularly exceed 90°F (32°C) at midday.
- Carry at least 2 liters of water per person; no water sources exist beyond the trailhead fountain.
- The Misery Ridge ascent is steep and exposed — avoid if the trail is wet or icy.
- The $5 day-use fee is collected at the parking area; an Oregon State Parks annual pass covers the cost.
- Weekends in spring and fall are very popular; weekday visits significantly reduce trail congestion.
When to visit
March through June and September through November offer the most comfortable temperatures for the exposed canyon loop. Summer midday heat in the canyon is intense; an early morning start (before 9 a.m.) is essential from July through August.
Accessibility
The main parking area and upper canyon overlook at Smith Rock are accessible to wheelchairs and offer elevated views of the rock formations. The River Trail along the Crooked River canyon floor is relatively flat but unpaved and not suitable for standard wheelchairs. The Misery Ridge ascent is entirely inaccessible to mobility-impaired visitors.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Misery Ridge section dangerous?
The Misery Ridge section is steep and exposed, with significant drop-offs and loose rock on the ascent. The trail is manageable for most fit hikers in dry conditions but should be avoided when wet or icy. Hikers with a fear of heights may find the east-facing exposure challenging.
How do I get to Smith Rock State Park?
The park is located at 9241 NE Crooked River Drive in Terrebonne, approximately 9 miles north of Redmond and 30 minutes from Bend via US-97. No public transit serves the park; a private vehicle is required.
Can I watch rock climbers from the Misery Ridge loop?
Yes. Smith Rock is one of the premier sport climbing destinations in the United States. Climbers are visible on Monkey Face and the surrounding walls year-round, with the highest activity in spring and fall when temperatures are most favorable.
Is there water available on the trail?
A water fountain is available at the main trailhead parking area. No water sources exist on the Misery Ridge or River Trail sections; all water must be carried from the parking area.