Smith Rock

Smith Rock State Park near Redmond OR is an impressive setting that draws hikers and climbers.

Reflections from home -- Smith Rock State Park was the fitting end to a road trip that began April 30 in Woodinville WA, passed through Richland WA, McCall ID, Redmond and Portland OR, the Mount St. Helens national park, and finally back to Woodinville. With the national park not yet open, Smith Rock became the highlight of the trip. I will return here for the hiking trails and the stunning scenery, and for the purpose of learning how to deal with my discomfort on trails close to steep descents. The image below shows the extent of my ascent up Misery Trail before I lost my nerve and turned back to walk along the River.

Looking down from a 200-foot ascent above the river, I lost my nerve and followed the river instead.

My path down to the river, up the other side, and then along the river before returning to my car amounted to barely 2 miles. The total ascendancy was barely an easy 350 feet. I decided to come back and hike again when not encumbered with a swinging camera and a large backpack. I didn't feel a sense of balance. I want to try the trail again, more lightly accoutred and with trekking poles deployed for balance. And if I ever had any doubts, I'm certain I will never descend the Grand Canyon. This is a link to details about hikes in the park.

Other sights this day:

Stats for the day:

Distance hiked: 2 miles
Load: 18 pounds
Elevation Gain: 350 feet

Year to date:

Distance: 82.2 miles
Elevation Gain: 21,090 feet