It was 6 p.m. and the sun was still shining high in the sky. My Nikes were laced up, water in my pack, and hair braided tightly back. My family and I had arrived at Smith Rock, ready for the Misery Ridge trail.
Utter beauty was all that surrounded us. The landscape took me back to my summers in Arizona: red rock, dry brush, and lizards running free. Even before the hike started, we seemed to be engulfed in all that nature had to offer.
Blue skies and sunshine haloed above us. A wide river flowed down below. Lush, green trees stood around us. Massive and uniquely crafted rocks made up all that we came to see.
A wooden sign pointing towards Misery Ridge trail guided us to the beginning of our adventure of the night. Looking ahead, each one of my family members braced themselves for the steep, uphill task. We knew it would all be worth it. We took our time, enjoying the beauty around us.
Each step burned my calves, as dust flew up and caked my legs. It was like climbing up a skyscraper, sheer and everlasting. The amazing view never left us, though.
Most hikes are tree covered and reveal the view you’ve been waiting for at the end. Smith Rock was different. It was a jaw-dropping sight every second of the way.
After much calf burning and sweat dripping down our backs, we reached the top. How great it was to see a 360 view of the wondrous Smith Rock. I felt on top of the world, despite the soreness of my legs.
A little bit to the right was the famous Monkey Face rock. Standing tall above the trees, we all admired it. Pictures were snapped. Oohs and Ahhs were dropped.
After we had taken in all that there was to offer, my family and I headed back down towards the bottom part of Misery Ridge loop. It was steep, and heavy footed steps were a must. Once we reached the bottom, though, a path by the river awaited us.
Trickling water and river creatures surrounded us. It was a good change of scenery, and a relief to be on flat ground. Our feet thanked us, our breaths were slowed a little.
Once we reached the end of the hike, panting and covered in dust and sweat, smiles were on our faces. Two and a half hours and many steps later, we had completed the Misery Ridge trail. Our bodies finally got to rest.
My family and I had conquered and greatly enjoyed one of the seven wonders of Oregon.
A celebration bottle of wine was popped as the sun set around us. A night filled with family and nature was one to be cherished. Once again, Oregon’s beauty didn’t fail to amaze me.
