Central Oregon boasts some mighty pretty country. Dry. Rugged. Still pretty. (for large images, just click on the photo)

Smith Rock is spectacular in any weather at any time of day.

Batman and I took a little hike today. We drove to Terrebonne, OR (home of Smith Rock State Park). We entered and drove past the main parking area and continued all the way to the end of the paved road to the last parking lot available. This is where we like to go for a little hike. The trail down from the main parking lot is pretty steep in places and it kills my knees. So we use this other trail. Plus, it’s usually less occupied and more peaceful. All of the trails around Smith Rock are pretty manageable. There are some rough patches on some of the less-traveled trails (the die-hards like those trails). Most of the trails are fairly tame.

Here’s what the minor tricky parts (on the easy trails) can often look like. Not too bad. I managed these in sandals. Piece of cake. Be warned, though. Not all hiking trails are alike. Check out the situation first before you take off. Check the maps and guides before heading out. Make sure you’re not getting into something you can’t handle.

Look what else we saw!

An added treat at Smith Rock is sighting a Golden Eagle. They have nests all around in the rocks. There is a nest in the photo above. About an inch above the ‘p’ in my watermark.

Note: The parking lot referred to in the photo above is the MAIN parking lot.

Lando got to play in the river. His photos will come later in the week.

I hope you get to visit Smith Rock one day. You won’t be sorry.