Homestead Trail

Dogs Leashed

Features Birding · River/Creek

This trail starts off in the north point parking lot. It is wide and well traveled with side markers. As you start, you'll see the overlook to you left. There are quite a few weddings held here each year. The graveled trail will continue out to the end of North Point where you can look over the cliff. But Homestead Trail will break off left about half way there, there is a good clear sign.

As you approach the edge of the cliff the trail will start down. It cuts through several small rock outcroppings and begin down. There is the occasional loose pebble that will roll if you are not careful. When you reach the switchback you'll see a trail continuing more or less straight. This is a climbers trail, if you take it you well soon be boulder hopping to the base of the cliff.

Continuing down the switchbacks you'll get a good view of the river. At the bottom of the switchbacks is an intersection. Straight or slightly right will take you to the river and the horse crossing.

The main trail turns left. You'll pass an ancient pine tree with a huge bent limb. This is a great area for photo ops. The trail flattens out along the river and is very easy going. You'll soon come to a grassy meadow near the bridge - this is the end of the trail. There is a picnic table and a water fountain here. It is also the start of most of the other trails in Smith Rock State Park. This trail is open to bicycles and horses.

The upper river section is somewhat less traveled resulting in the ducks and geese congregating on this section of the river.