Details
Region: Central Oregon
Location: US Hwy 97, Terrebonne, Oregon 97760
DEN Rating: 5/10
Trail Length: 0.25 miles total
Trail Type: loop
Hike Time: 5-10 minutes for entire loop
Trail Difficulty: extremely easy 1/10
Elevation Gain: 2 feet
Trail Surface: paved, gravel
Popularity: 5/10
Family friendly: yes
Pet friendly: yes (no at viewpoints)
Handicapped Accessible: yes
Swimming: no
Camping: no
Restroom: flush toilets
Open Hours: 24 hours
Season: year-round
Pass or Permit: none required
Managed By: Oregon State Parks
Peter Skene Ogden State Scenic Viewpoint is essentially a highway rest area and picnic area with a big parking lot and decent viewpoints of the Crooked River as it flows through the bottom of a 300 foot-deep basalt canyon. There are two viewpoints – one across the lawn looking over the canyon edge, and the other from the bicycle & pedestrian bridge that spans the canyon. Pets are not allowed anywhere near the viewpoints due to the high number of dogs that have jumped or have accidentally fallen into the canyon.
While the canyon is really cool – a surprising feature given the flat terrain that surrounds it. However the views are just ok, with the railroad bridge to the west and the highway bridge to the east boxing in the views both directions. On the plus side, most of the picnic tables are in the shade, scattered across the big lawn. The restrooms are nice as well and open 24 hours. And the entire park is ADA accessible.
The park was named after Peter Skene Ogden, an early pioneer and known figure who originally ventured to the region as a fur trapper. The city of Ogden, Utah is named after him as well.
Overall Ogden Viewpoint is worth a quick stop if you’re in the area but certainly isn’t a destination on par with nearby parks like Smith Rock and Cove Palisades. If you’re traveling and need a break, stop here. If you’re pressed for time at all, skip this one.
Cautions
The 300 foot drop to the canyon bottom is the glaring danger here. Stay behind barriers, keep pets well away and keep a close eye on kids. Watch for bikes if you go out on the bridge.
Getting There
Ogden Viewpoint is located on the west side of Hwy 197 just north of Terrebonne, Oregon.
Photographer’s Tip
The canyon is cool to look at but difficult to photograph if you don’t want bridges in the scene. My advice is to focus your efforts elsewhere.
Links
https://stateparks.oregon.gov/index.cfm?do=park.profile&parkId=35
https://oregondiscovery.com/peter-skene-ogden-wayside
https://www.outdoorproject.com/united-states/oregon/peter-skene-ogden-state-scenic-viewpoint
