Smith Rock State Park

Smith Rock State Park is a state-managed park in central Oregon recognised for its sheer volcanic cliffs, river-cut canyon and rock-climbing reputation. The park’s cliffs of welded tuff and basalt form steep faces that are popular with climbers, hikers and photographers.

A dense concentration of single- and multi-pitch climbing routes across a range of difficulties makes the park a major destination for sport and trad climbers. In addition to climbing, visitors use rim and river trails to access viewpoints, the Crooked River and distinctive rock formations such as the freestanding spire known as the Monkey Face.

The area’s use has evolved from local recreation to an internationally known climbing destination while remaining a protected state park with trail infrastructure and visitor facilities. Management balances conservation of the canyon environment with recreation and climbing access.

The park lies in central Oregon near the towns of Terrebonne and Redmond, on the eastern side of the Cascade Range, with the Crooked River running through the park’s canyon.

• Climbing note: Best known internationally for its rock climbing; take appropriate safety gear or hire local guides for multi-pitch routes.
• When to go: Spring and fall offer the most comfortable temperatures for hiking and climbing; summer can be hot on exposed rock faces.

What to See #

• Monkey Face: A distinctive freestanding rock tower and popular multi-pitch objective with bolted sport and traditional routes that is a visual landmark within the park.
• Crooked River Canyon: The canyon carved by the Crooked River that forms the park's central gorge and river-level trails offering close views of the cliffs.
• Misery Ridge trail: A steep rim trail that leads to panoramic viewpoints over the canyon and rock faces, commonly used by hikers and photographers.