Smith Rock First Day Parking Still Free, Hikes Not Guided
December 30, 2020
Say goodbye to 2020 with free parking on January 1, 2021, at Smith Rock State Park. While the pandemic has canceled the popular ranger/volunteer guided hikes of the past, here’s your chance to do a little exploring on your own. Have young kids or older folks with you? The Rimrock Trail allows you to stay above the canyon along the park’s rim. Want to put a bunch of trails together and see more of the park? See our Suggested Hikes.
The weather is looking pretty balmy this New Year’s Day, forecasted for overcast and 50° with winds at 10-15 mph, so add a wind jacket to the layers in your pack. And remember to bring plenty of water, as the fountains remain shut off for the season. Sturdy, traction soled shoes and trekking poles are a plus, especially on the steeper trails such as Misery Ridge. Remember too to don your mask when you approach anyone outside your group and can’t safely social distance 6 feet from each other.
As always, be courteous, pack out your trash and dog poop, and smile with those eyes through your mask at others. And celebrate the end of 2020!