From the moment I arrived at Smith Rock State Park, views of impressive rock formations and other natural beauty abounded.
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| Smith Rock State Park |
I chose to hike the Misery Ridge and River Trails in a loop around a large section of the state park. From the parking area, I descended down to the bottom of the canyon where the Crooked River lies. Then I began the climb around the right edge of some rock formations.
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| Start of Misery Ridge Trail |
The ascent was steep enough that I quickly gained views of the starting point and the Crooked River below.
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| Partway Up |
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Crooked River Winds Its Way
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| Steep Ascent |
After climbing to the top of the ridge, I gained a perspective of the land surrounding Smith Rock State Park.
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| View from Top of Ridge |
I also took a moment to look back at part of the trail I'd just traversed.
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| Looking Back at Trail Below |
I then hiked along the top of the ridge through some bristlecone pine trees.
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| Trail through Bristlecone Pines |
And saw more rugged rock formations.
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| Impressive Rock Formations |
One sight that captured my attention were a half dozen or so birds soaring and circling on the wind currents. While I can't be positive, I believe they were golden eagles.
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| Possibly Eagles |
As I came to the end of the ridge, I had a good view of Monkey Face Rock.
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| Monkey Face Rock on the Right |
I then began my descent back down to the Crooked River. On the far rim of the canyon were quite a few large houses. With a view like that, I don't want to know how much they cost.
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| Start of Descent |
While the rock formations are quite striking as they towered above me, I also found interest in the small details...like these rocks set in the cracks by Mother Nature.
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| Rocks in Slots |
Having completed the Misery Ridge Trail, I followed the River Trail along the Crooked River to complete the hike's loop.
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| Trail next to the Crooked River |
The canyon bottom was filled with green plants and trees, in stark contrast to the rugged rocks at the higher elevations.
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| Trees, Plants & Wildflowers |
But those rock formations were certainly awe-inspiring.
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| Towering Formations |
They made for a spectacular backdrop to the Crooked River.
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| Crooked River Flows by Rock Formations |
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| End of the Loop Is Just Around the Red Tower |
That is why this is such a popular place for rock climbers and hikers.
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| Rock Climbers |
Today was no different as the parking lots must have been about 90% full by the time I left the park in the early afternoon despite it being a weekday in mid-May.
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