Discover the Birthplace of Sport Climbing - Smith Rock

For prime rock climbing in North America you would go to Smith Rock State Park in Central Oregon. Climbing in Smith Rock State Park became popular with the advent of bolt climbing. Smith Rock State Park is in Central Oregon's desert and close to the towns of Terrebonne and Redmond and is said to be the place of sport climbing in America was born.

There are two volcanic rocks on which you can climb. The primary rock formation is difficult as it has angles that are irregular and the face is pocked and knobbed. The columns of basalt are steep but offer delicate face climbs that are bolted.

The best time to climb at Smith Rock State Park is the spring and summer although the summer is extremely hot. Although the winters are cold and snowy, climbing can be managed.

Rope climbing is limited because the formations are just a bit more than half of the length of a rope high. There are many good well protected climbs that are easy for the beginning climber.

In addition to is popularity for the sport of rock climbing, Smith Rock State Park is famous in the field of movie making. It was featured in such famous movies as The Postman, Swordfish, and the famous Rooster Cogburn. The entrance to the park has on it the movie set that was used in Kate's Saloon.

If you plan on climbing in Smith Rock State Park hire a guide. A guide is the most effective way to experience climbing in the park, as the guides work with climbers of all levels of climbing experience. Your guide will also have whatever supplies or equipment you will need without any further charge. Hiring a guide can save you both time and energy.

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