Misery Ridge Trail

This morning I started from the trail head Smith Rock State Park at 7:00 am. There were a few other people in the park, some looking to summit the rocks (as I was) some looking to do some rock climbing at this world renowned park for rock climbing. It was a cool sunny morning but the temperature starting to rise along with the rising sun.

The climb to the summit happens via Misery Ridge Trail which is very appropriately named. The trail is literally a climb everyone step of the way. The trail is a dry dirt trail with loose rocks every now and then. So be cautious at every step. Once you reach the summit you get spectacular views of the valley below, the Deschutes River, the town of Terrebonne, and the 7 peaks that central Oregon is famous for.

After taking a few pictures at the summit, and eating a few snacks (and catching my breath) I headed back down the steep trail to the trail head. The park has much more to offer than just this trail I took today. There are many trails to hike, bike, climb, and horseback along the river or up to the summit. It seemed to be a very popular state park as witnessed as I returned to the parking lot full of cars and tour buses at about 10:00 am. It truly looks like a park full of options and fun to be had.