Visit One of the 7 Wonders of Oregon Near Sisters

If you’re looking for a Central Oregon experience that tops all the rest, consider adding Smith Rock to your itinerary.

Officially named one of the 7 wonders of Oregon by the state’s travel commission, Smith Rock is one of the state’s greatest natural treasures. A popular destination for rock climbing and other outdoor pursuits, the park’s scenic beauty is marked by golden cliff faces that soar dramatically from the winding banks of Crooked River, creating a landscape that’s both intense and relaxing. It attracts visitors from all over the globe eager to climb, hike, bike, and explore all 650 acres of this dramatic desert wilderness.

Best of all, Smith Rock is a short 40-minute drive from downtown Sisters, making it an easy addition to your to-do list. If you’re visiting the area, be sure to set aside a day (or two) to explore every cliff and cranny of this phenomenal state park.

How to Explore:

Rock Climbing: Smith Rock is Oregon’s premier rock-climbing destination – and for good reason. The park offers more than 2,000 routes of varying difficulty that scale every inch of its volcanic, tuff, and basalt cliffs. Visitors of all ages and skill levels are sure to find a climb to suit their style, from sport climbing to traditional climbing to bouldering. If you’re new to the sport, consider trying one of the park’s many guided climb services!

Hiking: If you prefer to remain firmly on the ground, Smith Rock has a vast network of exceptional hiking trails. Twelve official trails take you through the park’s most iconic scenes, from the famed Monkey Face rock formation to the deep river canyon and everything in between. The most popular hikes include Misery Ridge Trail, a difficult but rewarding trip to the park’s summit, and the River Trail, a more casual 2.5-mile stroll along the scenic banks of Crooked River.

Wildlife Viewing: The park isn’t only popular with humans! The park is home to a ton of native wildlife you’re sure to come across on your Smith Rock adventure. Keep an eye out for prairie falcons, golden eagles, river otters, mule deer, and rattlesnakes as you explore this desert ecosystem.

Walk a Slackline: For a unique Smith Rock experience, test your balance (and your nerve) on a harrowing slackline walk. The park boasts over 35 popular lines that offer a fun and fearful way to take in the scenery.

Know Before You Go

Some fast facts to help you make the most of your Smith Rock trip:

• The park is open from dawn to dusk every day of the year.
• There is a $5 fee per car for day use and parking.
• Dogs are allowed but must be kept on a leash at all times.
• Fall and spring are the most popular times of year to visit the park. Try to visit on a weekday and expect plenty of trail congestion if visiting during peak season.
• If you’re visiting during the warmer months, try to arrive in the morning and be sure to bring plenty of water to avoid dehydration. Summer heat among the rocks can exceed 100 degrees.

Book Your Stay in Sisters Today!

We offer a variety of comfortable and convenient vacation rentals a short 40-minute drive from the park. Choose a downtown rental like our Meadow Sage condo for the perfect blend of luxury and location!