Central Oregon's Smith Rock State Park in Terrebonne is one of the best rock-climbing sites in the world, drawing climbers from as far away as Europe and Asia to its towering walls.

But even if you've just come from Portland for the weekend, you can enjoy the same world-class challenges.

If you are a first-timer, a knowledgeable and well-equipped guide is important for safety; see "Rock climbing basics" below for guide-service information.

Rock-climbing basics and outfitters

Rock-climbing is fun, and offers fitness benefits

Monkey Face, Smith Rock's best-known feature

The 'golden age' of Smith Rock climbing.

Local climbing resources

Podclimber, a locally produced podcast that covers climbing here and around the world.

Watch a Smith Rock TV video clip of local climber Ian Caldwell on Chain Reaction, one of the difficult climbs at the park. The site offers many other Smith climbing videos as well.

Watch OPB's "Oregon Field Guide" video on climbing at Smith.

Check route updates at smithrock.com.

Guide books

"Climber's Guide to Smith Rock," the classic guide book by Alan Watts, often called the godfather of Smith Rock climbing.

"Smith Rock Select," by Jonathan Thesenga.

"Weekend Rock: Oregon," a guide aimed at those new to the sport.

Related links

Smithrock.com's online guide by veteran climber Mike Volk focuses on the heavily climbed Dihedrals area.

Spiritone's online climbing guide

Terrebonne Depot, owned by local climbers Ian and Kristin Yurdin, offers refreshment after a day on the rocks.

Camping at Smith Rock State Park is limited to the bivouac area ($4).

Camping at Skull Hollow Camp, in the Crooked River National Grasslands about 7 miles north of Smith Rock State Park, is more primitive but free.