Smith Rock State Park LbNA #417

Volcanic action and water erosion joined forces to create spectacular multi-hued rock formations in breathtaking Smith Rock State Park. The sheer cliffs and ledges attract rock climbers from all over the globe and are perfect sites for eagles to build their gargantuan nests. In season, lovely wildflowers can be found along the trails. Come in early June to see nesting,eagles and early July for Mariposa Lilies.

To the trailhead: The small town of Terrebonne is located between Redmond and Madras on Highway 97. There are signs here to direct you east to the park entrance. You will find vending machines where you can purchase your day use pass. Binoculars will be a big help in locating box #1 and water is essential when hiking to box #2. You should be able to find both of these boxes in a couple of hours.

To letterbox #1, The Golden Eagle: Park at the very end of the road, at the viewpoint turnaround. Find the interpretive sign about nesting eagles and head down the short gravel path to the cliff rim overlooking the Crooked River Canyon. Nearby, find a rocky bowl where you can stand on a carpet of juniper needles about 6 feet back from the cliff edge. There are eagles'
nests on the rock face across the canyon at 345 and 315 degrees magnetic and the turn of a switchback trail at 65 degrees. A pair of junipers about six feet apart are at your back and the letterbox is at your ankles.

To letterbox #2, The Mariposa Lily: Park at the picnic area where you can usually pick up a trail map. Head down the trail and cross the footbridge over the Crooked River. There is a trail map posted here. Go left towards Monkey Face, keeping on the Riverside Trail until you spy the simian monolith. Soon you will meet a ponderous pair of Siamese twins on the left side of the trail. Keep walking until you meet their solo brother standing right in the middle of the path. Walk 60 more steps to the beginning of a small retaining wall where the letterbox lives about 5 feet before a juniper tree. If you feel like you want a serious aerobic workout, and have plenty of water, you can complete a loop back to your car by continuing on to the right fork in the trail which takes you up, over the top of Misery Ridge. Otherwise, double back and enjoy the scenery in reverse.

NOTE: Please do not enter this box into any database. Contact me directly to report on its status.©