Most well known for climbing, Smith Rock State Park also has miles of singletrack for mountain bikers to enjoy in spring before the summer crowds arrive.

This Pacific Northwest rock climbing mecca isn’t just a place to bag peaks. It’s also a lesser traveled mountain biking destination that welcomes pedalers with miles of singletrack. Ambitious adventurers can easily turn a day at Smith Rock State Park into a classic multi-sport day.

We started our ride at Skull Hollow Campground, riding along the singletrack switchbacks of Gray Butte, the tallest peak in the greater Smith Rock area. This pronounced butte hosts myriad epic climbs as well as grand scenery. We circumnavigated the entire feature. After reaching the base of the summit, we dismounted and scrambled up the final steep section of scree. Our ride culminated with a descent that provided plenty of burly thrills and fast shoots.

There are plenty of riding options at one of Oregon’s most photographed state parks. Take the classic Summit Loop, or link up with the Cole Trail that circumnavigates Gray Butte.

After Party: Wild Ride Brewing

This family-friendly taproom in the heart of downtown has been a welcome addition to the Redmond scene. With the beautiful mountain peaks huddled in the distance, a 3 Sisters American Red Ale seemed the logical choice. I added a Yakisoba bowl from Shred Town, just one of the many food trucks Wild Ride has on site.