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A DAY AT THE CRAG Official Visitor Guide of Bend
Ask anybody where to find the best sport climbing in North America, and most people won’t say the Central Oregon desert. But most people are wrong. Known as the birthplace of modern American sport climbing, Smith Rock State Park is just 30 minutes north of Bend. With towering basalt cliffs and endless blue skies, the area features some of the most spectacular climbing routes in the world. There are literally thousands of established routes to choose from, with options for everyone from pro climbers to first timers—even the kids.
But don’t feel like you need to scale cliff walls to fully appreciate Smith Rock. Lots of hiking trails require no ropes at all. Keep an eye out for eagles, osprey, otters, deer, and other wildlife in the area, especially along the stunning Crooked River.
Though Smith Rock is a year-round climbing destination, summer temperatures can reach 100 degrees, and winter Some of Smith Rock’s most renowned routes and climbing temperatures often hover around freezing. Spring and fall areas include Monkey Face, Mesa Verde Wall, The Dihedrals, are the most popular climbing months. The park and walkand others providing a variety of challenges for all skill levels. in tent camping are open year round. A $5 day use permit or a current state park camp receipt is needed for each Smith Rock State Park encompasses 651 acres on the Or- vehicle. Yearly permits are available for $30, and day use egon high desert plateau, which hovers around 3,000 feet permits are available from the self-service pay stations. in elevation. Hiking trails offer spectacular views of the surrounding area, including the Crooked River winding its Keep in mind that Smith Rock is a popular attraction way through the park. and parking can be challenging in summertime and on weekends. Beat the crowds and visit Smith Rock on a Smith Rock’s major rock faces are composed of compressed weekday, or consider carpooling to reduce congestion. volcanic ash reaching a height of up to 550 feet. The picnic It’s also crucial to stay on marked trails to protect the and tent camping areas sit on top of the rimrock, offering fragile landscapes at Smith Rock. Take plenty of photos, dramatic views of the Crooked River, climbing routes, and but please leave only your footprints! climbers. Interested in other climbing areas around Central OreWant to try your hand at climbing? You’ll find several out- gon? In addition to Smith Rock State Park, Bend offers fitters and climbing schools in the area, equipped to have several other, lesser-known pockets of superb climbing. your whole family safely scaling rock faces in no time. You’ll Check in with one of the local guides or shops for suggesalso find gear shops and restaurants nearby to ensure you tions and directions to other climbing locations in town. have everything you need to safely enjoy your adventure. VISITBEND.COM/CLIMB
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