While on a work trip to Oregon this past March (2008), I had the opportunity to briefly tour this wonderful state park. I was really glad that I did! Smith Rock State park is a rock climber's mecca (see photos) and a beautiful place to visit. Watching the climbers from afar was fascinating.
There are over 1,500 documented climbing routes and a climber's guide is available (see http://www.smithrock.com.) Apparently it gets baking hot in the summer, so the favorite time for climbers is in the spring and fall. It is estimated that the park gets 500,000 visitors every year.
I strolled around the river bottom for less than an hour, but according to the information I found in the 'Redmond Visitor's Guide', it is possible to do a half day hike as there are there are 7 miles (~11 km) of trail that follow the Crooked river. It is worth a stop if you are in the area, even if you are not into rock climbing.
There is a $3 per day use fee for parking or a yearly permit for $25.
Other references:
http://www.oregon.com/hiking/smith_rock.cfm
Directions:
From Redmond follow Hwy 97 north until Terrebonne, then continue east for three miles (541/548-7501).
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