Rock Climbing Engagement Session at Smith Rock in Central Oregon
Sarah and Chase’s rock climbing engagement session at Smith Rock was all about capturing their love for each other and their shared passion for climbing. Alongside their chocolate Newfoundland, Archie, we explored one of Oregon’s most iconic landscapes and one of my personal places to shoot—Smith Rock State Park. With climbing gear in hand and the stunning scenery as a backdrop, we captured a perfect blend of adventure and connection. It was a dream!
Rock Climbing Engagement at Smith Rock | The Couple
I’m all for a besties turned fiancé’s love story and Sarah and Chase has just that. Sarah and Chase’s story began when their shared love for rock climbing brought them together as friends, and what better way to commemorate their engagement than by showcasing this part of their journey through an adventurous photo session? Sarah was dating someone else at the time but one day realized that one of her best friends (Chase) treated her better than her boyfriend. Their love story unfolded from there. This was one of those sessions that was just easy. The ease and comfortability these two had with each other just showed in every frame.
Adding their cuddly, adorable dog, Archie, to the session was a no-brainer. He’s an important member of their family, and bringing him along for the photos added a personal touch that made the shoot even more meaningful. From posing with Archie by their side to laughing together as he bounded around, it was clear this couple’s connection goes beyond just their love for climbing.
Smith Rock Location Details
Smith Rock State Park, located near Terrebonne in Central Oregon, is an outdoor adventurer’s paradise. Known for its towering cliffs and dramatic landscapes, it’s a popular destination for rock climbers and hikers—making it the perfect spot for Sarah and Chase’s engagement session. The park offers a variety of scenic spots, each with its own unique features, making it ideal for an adventurous photo shoot.
The main park area is home to world-renowned climbing routes, offering stunning views of the Crooked River below and the iconic spires of Smith Rock above. One of the most popular trails is the Misery Ridge Trail, a challenging climb that rewards you with breathtaking panoramic views from the top. For a more relaxed experience, and one of my favorite views, the River Trail offers a gentler walk overlooking the Crooked River in the valley between two giant rock formations. Best of all, it’s just a short 50-yard walk from the parking lot!
What to Know Before You Go To Smith Rock
One of the best things about Smith Rock—and Central Oregon in general—is how reliable the summer weather is. Rain is rare, so you don’t have to stress about chasing the perfect sunny day. If you’re planning your engagement session here, sunset and golden hour offer the best lighting, with the sun peeking through the rock formations and highlighting the landscape beautifully. To avoid crowds (and any unexpected ‘extras’ in your photos), I recommend going on a weekday since weekends tend to be busy, and you’ll have more space to enjoy the beauty of this incredible spot.
One of the easiest spots for a rock climbing photo session is Rope de Dope. This single large rock formation is on the left side of the trail when headed down to the river. It’s flat ground underneath and tendency for shade in the afternoon makes it really easy for photographing without getting in the way of other climbers. Here’s all of Smith Rock’s climbing areas for reference.
Be sure to come prepared if you’re planning an engagement session—or even just a hike—at Smith Rock. There’s very little shade on most of the trails, so bringing plenty of water is a must, especially during the warmer months. The terrain can be uneven and steep in places, so wear sturdy shoes with good grip, particularly if you’re venturing up to any of the higher viewpoints. Comfort and safety make all the difference when you’re trying to enjoy the experience and get great photos along the way.
The Perfect Central Oregon Weekend
If you are looking for a dreamy place to do your engagement photos, I definitely recommend Smith Rock, there are just so many areas to choose from that are all equally epic in their own way. We spend a lot of time in Central Oregon as a family, if you’ve never done it, here’s my recommendations for a perfect little couple’s weekend away.
Stay in Sisters, Oregon
Sisters is the cutest little western-style town situated about a half hour from Smith Rock. The tree main towns of central Oregon are situated in a triangle, all about 25 minutes from each other- Redmond, Bend and Sisters. Sunriver lies farther beyond Bend. Sister’s is one of those towns where everything is picturesque and walkable. I highly recommend it in the Summer but if you are a snow sports person- winter can be good too. Top places to stay are the Best Western- it’s not your typical hotel. This one has alpacas out front! Or the Ski Inn for a more centralized, boutique hotel experience. There are also several air bnbs in the area or you can venture further to Black Butte or Camp Sherman for more options.
Get Coffee at Sister’s Coffee House
There’s not much else to say here. It’s probably one of my absolute favorite spots to just spend time and their coffee is delicious.
Head out for a Light Hike at Wychus Creek
While there are tons of beautiful options for the avid hiker in the Sister’s wildnerness areas, I’m going for the ideal weekend here… light hikes all the way. This one is super easy but has a beautiful view of the three sisters and is just enough to make you feel like you did something so you can go about your day. If you have more time, definitely go do a trail at Smith Rock. It’s worth it.
Get a Massage
Shibui is the most picturesque spa space in Sisters. Complete with the limey spa water, this place has a sauna and hot tub to relax in while you wait for your session.
Go to Dinner on the Patio at the Open Door
There are so many good food options here but this one is one of my favorites if we don’t have the kids with us. They even pass out blankets on the patio when it gets breezy at night. Other favorite places we love to frequent are The Ski Inn Taphouse, The Barn and Three Creeks Brewery.
Go to a Movie at the Sisters Movie House
The Sister’s movie house is the cutest boutique theater. They have so many options for food and drinks… and they even freeze their junior mints. That’s when you know it’s good.
Grab Sister’s Bakery
First thing next morning, make sure you grab pastries from Sister’s Bakery. It is absolutely amazing. Everything they make is my new favorite thing. I am a huge fan of their strawberry rhubarb oatmeal bars and all of their scones.
Other things we love to do in the area:
- Shop around town (my favorite store is Rescued Living and Paulina Springs Bookstore)
- Grab something to Traeger at The Sisters Smokehouse
- Get tea at the cutest tea shop: Suttle Tea
- Head to the Market on Sundays in the Summer
- Head to downtown Bend and visit the shops, walk the river and go to Bend Brewing
- and if you do have kids… visit the many fun parks in the area!
Whether you’re climbers like Sarah and Chase or just love the idea of an epic, scenic engagement shoot in Central Oregon, I’d love to help capture your story. Get in touch here to book your session!
