Smith Rock State Park 1-Day Itinerary | Ultimate Hikers Guide

Driving up to Smith Rock State Park will have you amazed, but it is a rather small park just covering 641 acres. Some people compare it to Zion National Park but I think it’s more of its own unique place. The park is much smaller and I think you can easily visit the park in just 1 day. You might even notice more rock climbers than hikers at this State Park. But in this particular guide I will be covering the Ultimate Hikers Guide on this Smith Rock State Park 1-Day Itinerary.

But that’s not to say you can’t enjoy more than 1 day here as it’s views are stunning and worth enjoying for as long as you need! If you are a fast traveler like us or just looking to spend a day here, let’s dive into this Smith Rock State Park 1-Day Itinerary Ultimate Hikers Guide.

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Fees At Smith Rock State Park:

There is a small fee of $5 for day use at the park. Or if you have an annual Oregon State Park pass, that will qualify as well. There are small pay stations in all the parking areas. Do note, you can only pay by card. Once you have the permit, place it in your windshield visible for the Park Ranger.

One of the famous shots along the Smith Rock State Park 1-Day Itinerary

Safety At Smith Rock State Park:

First, let’s talk about safety on this Smith Rock State Park 1-Day Itinerary.

Temperatures:

Smith Rock State Park gets VERY hot in the summer reaching temperatures over 100 degrees. Therefore, check the weather before making your trip out here, because hiking during the day in these temperatures can easily cause a heat stroke, dehydration and/or exhaustion. This leads me to the next safety tip.

Bring LOTS of Water:

Whether or not you are hiking in the middle of summer, you should always bring plenty of water on any hiking adventure. The rule of thumb is at least 16oz of water on these hiking trails. But honestly, it can never hurt to overpack a little too much water!

Rattlesnakes:

Rattlesnakes can be found in this area. They are important to the ecosystem. But be on the lookout so you don’t frighten them. Rattlesnakes don’t usually attack unless they feel threatened. If you do get bit by a rattlesnake, seek medical help immediately.

Pet-Friendly:

Pets are allowed on leash at Smith Rock State Park, so bring along your furry friend to enjoy the trails with you! But also, bring extra water for your pup friends! There are a few spots along the river where they can cool off on those extra hot days.

Hiking Trail For Misery Ridge on the Smith Rock State Park 1-Day Itinerary — The Switchbacks On The Hiking Trail For Misery Ridge at Smith Rock State Park

Best Hikes On The Smith Rock State Park 1-Day Itinerary:

Emily posing on a rock Hiking Misery Ridge on the Smith Rock State Park 1-day itinerary — Hiking Along Misery Ridge

Misery Ridge and River Trail:

3.5mi, 948ft elevation

First up, on the Smith Rock State Park 1-Day Itinerary Ultimate Hikers Guide is Misery Ridge to River Trail. This hike is 3.5 mi with 948 ft elevation change. The hike does start by descending down toward the river, to then climb back up to the top of the ridge, so no matter what there will be a bit of an elevation climb to get back to the parking lot. But the main elevation of the hike comes from the climb over Misery Ridge. If you take your time and as many breaks as your need, it’s not a super long distance to the top.

This hike has two distinct sections, the steep and abrupt climb up and down Misery Ridge, and the peaceful meander along the river. You can use this information strategically to decide what time of day to do the hike and which direction to hike. Primarily helping you to climb Misery Ridge in the shade, and descend in the sun. Going counter-clockwise in the afternoon will allow you to climb the east-facing slope of Misery Ridge in mostly shade. And going clockwise in the morning will allow you to climb the west-facing slope in the shade. Wish I had known this before we did the exact opposite.

The stairs on the climb up Misery Ridge if you go counter-clockwise on the Smith Rock State Park 1-day itinerary — The stairs on the climb up Misery Ridge if you go counter-clockwise

The decent of Misery Ridge if you go counter-clockwise at Smith Rock State Park — The decent of Misery Ridge if you go counter-clockwise

Jake and I did the hike counter-clockwise which starts with the steep climb at the beginning of the hike. This route has tons of stairs and you get the climb done and over with first. But climbing down the ridge on the other side is a bit slippery as there are no stairs, just a steep loose dirt path. Then you end the hike walking along the river with little to no elevation change and just get to enjoy the view of the rock cliffs up above.

But if you want to do the hike clockwise, you will start with a mellow walk along the river, and climb the ridge at the end. Then you will be walking down the stairs which is a little bit of a more stable descent. So a clockwise hike starting in the morning is probably going to be the most enjoyable way to complete this hike.

Neat patterns in the farms from Misery Ridge on the Smith Rock State Park 1-day itinerary — Neat patterns on the farms from Misery Ridge

If you are traveling to Smith Rock State Park during summer, we HIGHLY suggest starting your hike early to avoid the heat as you climb up the ridge. Once you are on top of the ridge, you will get a panoramic view of the park, as well as a cool view of a farm with neat patterns! You can also get a glimpse of Monkey Face, the best views of it are from the switchbacks on the west-facing slope. So keep looking up to the rock to finally get a true view of Monkey Face.

Monkey Face which is a must see rock formation on the At Smith Rock State Park 1-day itinerary In Oregon — Monkey Face

Misery Ridge and River Trail is an awesome hike that really brings you all around to the different scenic viewpoints in Smith Rock State Park. The hike is moderate, so I think everyone should add this hike to their Smith Rock State Park 1-Day Itinerary.

Rim Rock Trail:

1mi, 22ft elevation

Next hike on the Smith Rock State Park 1-Day Itinerary is Rim Rock Trail. It is an awesome short hike in the park that offers absolutely breathtaking views of the park. We chose to do this hike during sunset to avoid the heat, but if it isn’t too hot out this hike is short and can be done relatively quickly.

Rim Rock Trail is 1 mile with 22ft elevation change. It follows the cliff edge looking toward the famous views of the rock cliffs while the river flows through. The path is well-maintained and has a few benches to either take a break or sit and take in the stunning view.

Northern Point Trail:

.5mi, 0ft elevation

To round out the Smith Rock State Park 1- Day Itinerary, head over to the last parking area to check out Northern Point Trail. It’s a short .5 mile hike, and offers the last remaining views of the park that you haven’t quite seen yet. It doesn’t offer wildly different views, but you can see along the cliff edge to this part of the park.

Where To Stay Near Smith Rock State Park:

Camping At Smith Rock State Park:

After enjoying Smith Rock State Park 1-Day itinerary it might be nice to just sit back and relax for the evening instead of driving home or onto your next destination.

There is a campground in Smith Rock State Park called Bivouac Camp. The campground is only open from early spring to late fall as weather permits. But it is only for tent camping, no sleeping in a vehicle is allowed due to county laws. Also, no fires are allowed on the property. The cost is $9 per person per night. The campground does have showers for registered camping guests. Campsites are on a first come- first serve basis.

If you have a camper van or RV and want to sleep in your vehicle, there is camping at Skull Hollow Campground just 8 miles from the park. The cost is $10 per site & $20 for a double site. Campsites are also on a first come- first serve basis.

Or using the app iOverlander, there is free camping in the Crooked River National Grassland. Check out our post: 3 Great Sites For Finding Free Camping