Top 4 Gorges around Redmond
Best canyons around Redmond are primarily found in Redmond, Oregon, a city known for its high desert environment and unique geological formations. The region features canyons shaped by ancient volcanic activity and river erosion, offering diverse landscapes. These areas provide opportunities for outdoor recreation and connection with the natural environment, characterized by juniper groves, sage, and rock formations. The city's location in Central Oregon contributes to its distinct natural setting.
Best canyons around Redmond
- The most popular canyons is Crooked River, a river that flows through magnificent scenery with spectacular rock formations and sheer cliffs. It is known for its fishing opportunities and is part of a region with several recreational areas.
- Another must-see spot is Misery Ridge Trail, a challenging trail that offers sweeping views of rock formations and distant mountains. Visitors can expect a steep climb rewarded with extensive vistas.
- Visitors also love Smith Rock State Park, a natural monument and gorge known for its stunning scenery and abundant wildlife. It is considered a significant location in the climbing community but also offers exploration for non-climbers.
- Redmond is known for river canyons, deep gorges, and trails that traverse unique geological features. The area offers a variety of canyons to see and explore, from urban recreational areas to more rugged wilderness settings.
- The canyons around Redmond are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 15 photos shared and over 25 upvotes for highlights in the area.
Last updated: August 8, 2026
Crooked River
Highlight • River
Or as someone said: the wild west for your pocket. The area is comparatively tiny and can be explored in a relatively short time, but still offers intensive impressions of the landscape forms that characterize the west, including the associated fauna and flora. Surprisingly, if you take the less traveled paths along the river, you will soon be alone with the birds of prey and waterfowl.
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Rim Rock Trail
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Tips from the Community
Strongly suggest you walk this trail clockwise. This means you descend on steps rather than very slippy gravel & sand.
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The Crooked River meanders slowly through the Smith Rocks, providing a home for herons, mergansers, geese and other birds.
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Smith Rock is an iconic location in the climbing community as it's generally considered to be the birthplace of modern sport climbing. However, there's still plenty of reasons to visit even if you aren't a climber. The scenery is stunning, the wildlife is abundant, and the campground means you can stay a while to explore.
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Savor park vistas on the .5-mile Rim Rock Trail. Picnic, let kids climb Monkey Face, and watch climbers on Christian Brothers, The Dihedrals, and Morning Glory Wall. Bring binoculars for wildlife spotting, as geese and raptors traverse the gorge. Discover Asterisk Pass and the Smith Rock Group, a horse ford where riders may cross in summer.
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From the desolation of Misery Flat near Glass Buttes, the South Fork Crooked River embarks on a 76-mile journey north. Joining forces with Beaver Creek and the North Fork Crooked River, it carves a path through the Ochoco and Maury Mountains, passing by Post and Prineville, finally reaching us here at Smith Rock before becoming a part of the Deschutes River system.
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The Crooked River is a river that flows in Oregon, United States. It rises in the Ochoco Mountains, east of the town of Prineville, and travels approximately 75 miles (125 km) before emptying into Lake Billy Chinook. The Crooked River is known for its magnificent scenery, with spectacular rock formations and sheer cliffs throughout its course. It is also popular for fishing, especially fly fishing, as it is considered one of Oregon's best streams for rainbow trout and cutthroat trout. The surrounding Crooked River region is home to several recreational areas, including Smith Rock State Park, which is famous for its unique red rock formations, steep cliffs, and scenic hiking trails. Visitors can also enjoy hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing and camping in the area.
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The landscape at Smith Rock and Crooked River is as if Bob Ross invented it for one of his paintings: "just put a little nice limegreen down there to highlight the shores of that wonderful crooked river..." Or as someone said: the wild west for your pocket. The area is comparatively tiny and can be explored in a relatively short time, but still offers intensive impressions of the landscape forms that characterize the west, including the associated fauna and flora. Surprisingly, if you take the less traveled paths along the river, you will soon be alone with the birds of prey and waterfowl.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which Redmond is this guide about, Oregon or Washington?
This guide focuses on the canyons around Redmond, Oregon. Redmond, Oregon, is particularly known for its unique geological formations and recreational canyons, such as Dry Canyon, which is a central recreational hub within the city.
What are the most notable canyons to visit in Redmond, Oregon?
Redmond, Oregon, offers several impressive canyons. Highlights include Crooked River, known for its magnificent scenery and fishing opportunities, and Smith Rock State Park, a natural monument with stunning scenery and abundant wildlife, popular with climbers and non-climbers alike. Additionally, Dry Canyon within Redmond city limits provides extensive trails and recreational amenities.
Are there family-friendly canyon trails in Redmond, Oregon?
Yes, several canyon areas in Redmond, Oregon, are suitable for families. Smith Rock State Park and the Rim Rock Trail within it are considered family-friendly. Dry Canyon also features a 3.7-mile paved trail system and amenities like the Hope Playground, making it very accessible for families. You can find easy hiking options like the Crooked River Trail and Dry Canyon Trail in the Easy hikes around Redmond guide.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see in Redmond's canyons?
The canyons around Redmond, Oregon, especially areas like Dry Canyon Wildlife and Smith Rock State Park, are home to diverse wildlife. You might spot birds of prey, waterfowl, and various high desert fauna. The natural preserves showcase juniper groves, sage, and grasses, providing habitats for many species.
What outdoor activities can I do near the canyons in Redmond, Oregon?
Beyond exploring the canyons themselves, Redmond offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for cycling, running, and hiking. For cycling, consider routes like the Dry Canyon Trail or the Sisters to Smith Rock Scenic Bikeway Loop, detailed in the Cycling around Redmond guide. Runners can explore trails such as the Misery Ridge and River Trail Loop or the Dry Canyon Trail, found in the Running Trails around Redmond guide.
What is the Misery Ridge Trail like?
The Misery Ridge Trail is a challenging but rewarding hike, offering sweeping views of rock formations and distant mountains. It involves a steep climb to its 3,360-foot summit, but the extensive vistas make the effort worthwhile. Remember to carry extra water, especially during summer, as the trail is quite exposed.
Are there any unique geological sites besides canyons in Redmond, Oregon?
Yes, the Redmond Caves Recreation Site offers a different kind of geological exploration. These undeveloped caves, located within Redmond's city limits, provide an opportunity to learn about the area's geology and past human use. Visitors should bring multiple light sources and wear sturdy shoes for safety.
What makes Dry Canyon in Redmond, Oregon, a popular spot?
Dry Canyon is considered the 'crown jewel' of Redmond's park system due to its diverse offerings. It features a 3.7-mile paved trail system for walking, biking, and jogging, sports fields, tennis courts, a disc golf course, and a dog park. The canyon is also a nature preserve, showcasing high desert beauty and offering wildlife viewing opportunities. It's a community hub for recreation and connecting with nature.
Can I bring my dog to the canyon trails in Redmond, Oregon?
Many trails in Redmond, Oregon, are dog-friendly. For instance, Smith Rock State Park is noted as dog-friendly. Dry Canyon also includes a dog park and trails where leashed dogs are generally welcome. Always check specific park regulations and trail signage for the most current rules regarding pets.
What is the best time of year to visit the canyons around Redmond, Oregon?
The high desert climate of Redmond, Oregon, means that spring and fall often offer the most pleasant temperatures for exploring the canyons. Summers can be hot and dry, requiring extra hydration, while winters can bring colder temperatures. Always check local weather conditions before your visit.
Where can I find parking and trailheads for the canyons in Redmond, Oregon?
Specific parking and trailhead information varies by location. For Dry Canyon, there are multiple access points within Redmond, often with dedicated parking areas. For Smith Rock State Park, there is a main parking lot available. It's always advisable to check the official websites or local park information for the most up-to-date details on parking and access points for your chosen canyon destination.
Are there any easy canyon trails for beginners in Redmond, Oregon?
Yes, Redmond offers easy canyon trails suitable for beginners. The paved trail system in Dry Canyon is an excellent option for a leisurely experience. Additionally, the Easy hikes around Redmond guide lists trails like the Crooked River Trail and a section of the Dry Canyon Trail as easy options, perfect for those new to canyon hiking.
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