The start of today's hike in Smith Rock State Park. That's the nice, flat return trail on the right bank of the Crooked River.
Bridge over Crooked River. Once crossed there's no going back. That's the troll house on the far bank.
Nothing like that beautiful dapplie light.
Waaay up the switchbacks, Wendy is fascinated by something.
Russ and Emma take a short breather - the top is in sight - Emma's not believing it.
View east to the farmlands from the top.
Yup, we really came up that trail! Not bad for a couple with one good knee between the two of us.
On the summit ridge, a view of the Sisters, hidden in the clouds on the horizon.
The high-rent district's formal garden, waaaay below.
Today's weather system is blocked by the Cascades - giving us a beautiful day, while the coast weeps.
Emma Brown Sock waits for Wendy.
Looks like a scene from an area at least 2 states south of us. This place is a real treasure.
These folks went to a place we dared not try - lots of technical climbing at these amazing rocks of Smith.
The return trail from the highlands is a pleasant stroll along the river. Reminds me of Sedona.
Last rays on this fragile cliff face - the temperature is dropping fast, but does not deter committed climbers.
The skies fill with late day avian activity.
Those who can't hike just go straight up.
The last climb out of the canyon to the parking lot.
Google Analytics