The Misery Ridge Trail At Oregon's Smith Rock State Park Is Hard, But The Views Are Amazing
By Catherine Armstrong|Published August 10, 2020
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Catherine Armstrong
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Writer, editor and researcher with a passion for exploring new places. Catherine loves local bookstores, independent films, and spending time with her family, including Gus the golden retriever, who is a very good boy.
Smith Rock State Park is one of central Oregon’s most amazing places. 30 million-year-old rock spires and cliffs draw rock climbers from all over the world, and the views in this 650-acre park are unbeatable. For one of the best views, take the strenuous Misery Ridge Trail. It’s a tough slog… but this hike, one of the best hiking trails in the U.S., is worth it!
Smith Rock State Park is truly a gem, and people come from all over the world to scale its towering buttes. You don't need to be a rock climber to enjoy the natural wonders here, though - you'll get your share of views and vistas while your feet are firmly planted on the ground.
If you're visiting during summer months, make sure to bring along plenty of water, and slather on the sunscreen. This part of Oregon can experience triple-digit temperatures, and the trail is mostly sun-exposed.
There's a reason this trail is called "Misery Ridge." There are a few spots that feel like they're straight up and down, and your knees and leg muscles will quickly remind you that even though you're not rock climbing, you're definitely still climbing.
The views might temporarily distract you from the burning in your thigh muscles. Stop along the way to catch your breath and admire the vistas that stretch for miles.
The trail takes you up-close to the park's most famous rock formations - Monkey Face. If you use your imagination a bit, you can see that the rock really does bear a resemblance to a monkey face!
Climbers get a thrill from tackling this 350-foot tower, and compete to see who can create the most difficult climbing route. From the safety of the trail, you can imagine what it must be like to stand atop Monkey Face...
The trail makes a loop, so you'll end up right where you began. Smith Rock State Park currently offers day-use activities with reduced service due to Covid-19. The bivouac camping is closed. Check the park's website for the latest updates.
Learn more about Smith Rock State Park on the Oregon State Parks website. If you love beautiful Oregon views, you might want to join our Oregon Nature Lovers Group on Facebook. You’ll see lots of gorgeous photos taken around the Beaver State, and can post your own to share.
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