Smith Rock
Smith Rock, a 641-acre park,
is located in central Oregon. The rock there is welded tuff, consolidated from
molten ash 30 million years ago. I like to describe it as tiny pebbles held
together by plaster of paris. Along the Crooked River, in the upper and lower
gorge, are basalt cliffs as well.
There are over a thousand
climbs at Smith Rock, both sport and traditional, up to 600 feet high. Besides
having one of the most difficult climbs in the country ('Just Do It' - 5.14c),
it also hosts an array of easier and challenging climbs. For example, over 75
three and four star climbs are rated 5.10. Check the routes page for a visual parade
through over 200 of Smith Rock's finest climbs.
The best times to visit the park are autumn, spring and winter.
You can find yourself sweltering in 90+ degree (Fahrenheit) heat in the summer
(check the
weather!). The day use fee is currently $4, an
annual pass is $25. There is a bivouac area just west of the main parking area
(check the
map!) where, for a small fee, camp sites are
available within walking distance of your vehicle. The bivouac area contains
picnic tables, toilets and showers. There is also camping available at Skull
Hollow, otherwise known as 'The Grasslands'. Skull Hollow, located about 6
miles east of Smith Rock, is somewhat primitive (it contains only 2 pit
toilets.)
The town of Terrebonne offers the Redpoint store for
gear, a grocery store for supplies, Java Rock for expresso, the Sunspot and La
Siesta for dining out. Redmond, 10 minutes south of Terrebonne, offers more
and Bend, 30 minutes away offers still more.