Smith Rock Summit Trail Loop

Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Very Hard
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
1.5-2.5h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
12.5 km
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
321 m
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
Overall Rating
This is the average user-submitted overall rating on a scale of 1 to 10, with 10 being the highest.
9.3
Physical Difficulty
This is the average user-submitted rating on the physical difficulty of this route. In general, green is beginner, blue is intermediate, black is advanced/most difficult and double-black is expert-only. It is recommended that users build up to black and double-black routes.
Advanced (Diamond)
Suitable for advanced experience level looking for a solid adventure.
Technical Difficulty
This is the average user-submitted rating on the technical difficulty of this route. In general, green is beginner, blue is intermediate, black is advanced/most difficult and double-black is expert-only. It is recommended that users build up to black and double-black routes.
Intermediate (Square)
Suitable for intermediates who are ready for a little bit more adventure.
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Directions to Trailhead
Panorama on Smith Rock Summit mountain biking trail in Bend, Oregon

Smith Rock State Park is popular with hikers and bikers for a reason! The towering cliffs and the lush Crooked River are candy for the eyes. And the riding isn’t too bad either, though you will have to contend with a few hikers on the trail to get to the goods.

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Route Description for Smith Rock Summit Trail Loop

From the Visitor Centre descend the Canyon Trail to the river. Cross the bridge then turn right onto the Wolf Tree Trail. This first section of the trail can be very busy, however after a few minutes of riding along the delightful single track beside the river, the crowds will thin, and your smile will grow.

As you cycle along beside the river the trail remains quite flat, and there are a few difficult features. However, we recommend you stop frequently to take photos of the gorgeous scenery. Behind you, the stunning cliffs of Misery Ridge will dominate the view.

In under a 1.6 km you will reach a junction where you will have to turn left onto the Burma Road Trail. Here you are faced with a seemingly impossibly steep climb. Most people will have to walk here, as not only is the trail steep but also technical and loose.

Don’t worry, as soon you reach Burma Road itself, it becomes a dirt double track trail. This path continues climbing all the way to a visible notch up to your left. Exposed to the sun for most of the day, this climb can feel super challenging, even though the trail is not super technical.

After reaching the notch, take a well-deserved break and enjoy the view. To the northwest you will see the incredible Mt. Hood, and to the west the Three Sisters. These incredible peaks are snow covered for most of the year, and offer stunning contrast to the desert you have been riding in.

Take the trail to the left off of the road and start descending the opposite side of the notch, switch backing down a steep trail. These switchbacks are a fun challenge, and offer good variety from the smooth, fast berms in the Phil’s Trailhead Complex closer to bend. After half a dozen or so switchbacks the trail will straighten out and let you pick up more speed.

You will traverse through a sparse pine forest all the way back to the Crooked River, rarely gaining elevation. Once you reach the river the number of hikers will definitely increase, and the scenery will become much more lush. Continuing beside the river you will undulate up and down, never gaining or losing too much elevation.

Follow the River Trail, continuing straight at the two junctions all the way around back to the bridge. Cross the bridge and climb back up to your vehicle.

Insider Hints for Smith Rock Summit Trail Loop

  • This trail is popular with hikers. Watch out for them and slow down when passing.
  • Smith rock is a world-renowned climbing mecca. Hire a guide to experience this incredible vertical world in a whole new way.

Getting to the Smith Rock Summit Trail Loop Trailhead

Head north from Bend along highway 97 for 38.6 km. Once you enter Terrebonne, turn right onto Smith Rock Way, following signs for Smith Rock State Park. In half a mile turn left onto 1st street, then in 3.2 km turn left onto Crooked River Dr — all the way following signs for Smith Rock State Park. Park near the Visitor Centre. Don’t forget to get a parking pass, as day visitors require a permit.

Route Information

  • When to do

    Most of the year it is not too wet and snow free

  • Toilets

    At trailhead

  • Family friendly

    No

  • Route Signage

    Good

  • Crowd Levels

    Moderate to High

  • Route Type

    Loop

Smith Rock Summit Trail Loop Elevation Graph

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Smith Rock Summit Trail Loop Reviews

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