Smith Rock, Oregon

Oregon's Desert Sculpture Garden

July 6, 2023

  • Photography
  • Travel

Smith Rock is a marvel of the Oregon Desert, a regional climbing mecca, and a playground of light and stone.

Crooked River at Smith Rock
Smith Rock, Oregon

Late in the day, the setting sun touches the cliff spires on the other side of the river. I haven’t yet visited early in the day; I’d expect to find a completely different scene then.

Sun on cliff spires at Smith Rock

Hiking the Crooked River Trail

While there’s a bit of a steep descent to the valley floor, the trail itself is fairly flat and only about 2 miles. Next time, I want to do the Misery Ridge trail that comes back near the upper peaks to the East.

Sunset at the entrance, Mt. Jefferson in the glow.

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