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Another unseasonably warm day in Central Oregon meant a nice afternoon at Smith Rock, probably second to Yosemite as a climbers destination on the West Coast. We saw at least 15 different groups climbing today.
Looking Down on the start of the Misery Ridge Trail from our starting point.
Looking downriver, our return route after crossing Misery Ridge
Looking back down from the top
The iconic Monkey Face. In the past I have seen a tyrolean traverse set up. This time people on top and climbing up.
Monkey Face from below
Looking south as we head down to the river and around the distant point as we return to our starting point
Climber on rock face
Warm afternoon Light as we approach the bridge across untroubled waters and our last climb out of the river to the rim on the right
After a delightful afternoon what better way to end the day than to visit a nearby brewpub on the drive home--appropriately named Smith Rock Brewery. We shared a flight of 8 beers and the stout was outstanding and Kathy enjoyed the Misery Ridge IPA. The food was good, the onion rings to die for. Service was great and we talked quite a bit to one of the owners and our waitperson as well. I love it when we go into a small brewpub and the staff have time to talk to you.
Life IS Good!
Mike
Mike
Who can't do everything he used to and what he can do takes a hell of a lot longer!
Hey, Old Ranger:
Nice pix that really capture the stunning beauty of this place. Such a remarkable feature, and to have it named Smith somehow seems so "aw shucks" Oregon. And we don't even know who the Smith really was!
It's a beautiful place. I went there a couple of times on trips to Bend but didn't have time to hike the trail. Thanks for the photos. That looks like a fun trail. The brew pub at the end sounds good too.
