It’s hard to beat the iconic backdrop of Smith Rocks State Park against the backdrop of the crisp Central Oregon almost-always-blue sky. As cities are known for their skyline, the outline of Smith Rocks is known across the country as a destination rock climbing spot tucked away in quiet Terrebonne, Oregon. For us locals, it’s an old as time outdoor getaway; a space for everyone who loves the outdoors to mingle on the trails from the easy peasy rim trail to the aptly named Misery Ridge. For me, it’s the place where my dearest childhood friend and I used to bend the rules to be at the top by sunrise. A place where we would sometimes walk to share all our thoughts, sometimes run to train for the next soccer season.
I always love taking new clients, whether they are visitors or new residents, to Smith Rocks for their family photos, seeing people in awe and immediately pull out their phones for a view I’m blessed to know better than the back of my hand. Their heads swivel back and forth from the river at the base to follow the zig zag of misery ridge, then around to where the climbers are gathered waiting their turn.
BUT, it’s even more special to swing by for a mini family session with a dear friend who also grew up in the shade of this remarkable landform, someone else who has journeyed all around and found themselves back here raising a young family in Redmond Oregon. For families like this one with deep roots in the Terrebonne Oregon area, a gallery of photos against the backdrop of Smith Rocks State Park is all the more significant.
I don’t make it out there much just for fun these days; three little ones will do that from time to time! But I have found so much joy in sharing the space with my older kiddos, and my wonderful clients. Every time I swing into the parking lot I’m inspired and grateful. The majesty of this view never fades!
Located just 10 minutes North of Redmond, Oregon; this spot is super accessible. Its only flaw if you can call it that is that it is quite busy on the weekends. Given how friendly its patrons are this doesn’t make for much of an issue at all. We all work together to make sure we all get to enjoy the space!
Head over to www.juniperandrustphotography.com/info to get alll the info to schedule your own Smith Rocks Family Photos!
