Rock the Trails and Conquer Misery Ridge at Smith Rock State Park

The beauty of Smith Rock State Park is indescribable. There’s a reason trail runners, climbers, hikers, mountain bikers, campers, bird watchers, and fishermen and women flock here during every season. It’s simply gorgeous.

If you love Smith Rock as much as I do, put Alpine Running‘s 2024 Run the Rock event on your calendar. It will take place on November 9th and both the 50k and Half events promise plenty of incredible views.

50k | Start time: 7:00AM | Price: $185

The 50K route takes runners across nearly every trail in the park, including a challenging ascent up Misery Ridge and a close pass beneath the iconic Monkey Face rock formation. From there, participants embark on a sweeping loop around Gray Butte, where they’ll be treated to panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and the towering Cascade Peaks.

With 5500 feet of both elevation gain and loss, this course offers a tough yet rewarding adventure. Approximately 85% of the trail is single-track, while the remaining 15% consists of double-track and dirt roads. Along the way, there are 4 well-stocked aid stations to support you.

Half | Start time: 8:30 AM | Price: $142

The half marathon offers stunning vistas of the Cascade Mountains and Monkey Face. Runners will encounter one fully equipped aid station and climb a total of 2500 feet over the course of 13.1 miles. Single-track trails make up 90% of this scenic route.

​Registration includes a post-race meal from Longboard Louie’s and a custom award for each finisher. The top 3 male and female winners will receive prizes as well.

The beneficiary of this event is the Ridgeview High School Cross Country Team. Also, if you are a veteran or an immediate family member of a veteran, please email the race director and you will receive a 25% discount off registration.

You can visit the race website for additional details and stay up-to- date by following Alpine Running’s Facebook page here. See you at The Rock!