Misery Ridge Loop
Terrebonne, Oregon
Details
Distance
2.57 miles
Elevation Gain
774 ft
Route Type
Loop
Description
Added by Sarah Horn
Tour of Smith Rock SP from the canyon floor to the top of one of the tallest formations, past Monkey Face and along Crooked River.
This hike takes you on a tour of the park, starting out with a steep climb up to the top of the formations and then back down past Monkey Face and to the canyon floor.
It's a very popular place so if you're hoping for solitude start early -- the light on the rock walls will be worth rising early.
You'll start the hike at the Smith Rock Trailhead and then the main trail down to the Crooked River Bridge. A sign at the far end of the bridge marks the Misery Ridge Trail. Head straight up the switchbacks. The trail climbs continuously through switchbacks and oversize stairs. It's about 3/4 of a mile from the bridge to the Misery Ridge Summit. The trail continues up and around a bend to a viewpoint overlooking Monkey Face. From here you'll also see Mount Hood, Mount Jefferson, Three Sisters, Broken Top, Three Finger Jack, and Mount Bachelor on a clear day.
The trail then heads steeply down the west side of the ridge. The Misery Ridge Trail meets the Mesa Verde Trail at the base of Monkey Head, head left on Mesa Verde. It's about a half mile farther down to the River Trail. Continue straight ahead on the River Trail. You'll follow the river back to the bridge and then up the trail back to the parking lot.
It's a $5.00 fee to park for the day.
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Misery Ridge Loop Reviews
This is a great hike and a butt kicker! I like that you can loop it and don’t have to go out and back the same trail. Remember when you’re “done” you still have to hike back up to the parking lot!
5.0
This hike definitely has some steeper uphill sections, but they're not long so you can definitely take your time. It's a great loop that takes you from down by the river to up on the cliffs. Best hiked in springtime when you can catch some wildflowers blooming! There are some precarious sections during the wintertime and early spring (packed ice on the trail) and spikes are highly recommended.
5.0
Hiking up Misery Ridge is a great little climb, with some steep sections and switchbacks that make for an awesome workout. The views from the top are nothing short of epic. It is really cool to see the iconic climbs on Monkey Face as well. The full loop takes you along some charming scenery beside the river.
5.0
Great hike. Well groomed trails. Wonderful diverse scenery.
5.0
Leave No Trace
Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!
Nearby
Summit Trail Loop at Smith Rock
Snow Camp at Smith Rock
Misery Ridge Trail
Canyon Trail and Homestead Trail
Smith Rock State Park Canyon Trail
North Point Loop
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