🌤 Weather at Peter Skene Ogden State Scenic Viewpoint by season
| Spring | Summer | Fall | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| 28–69 °F | 43–88 °F | 28–79 °F | 23–48 °F |
Each range runs from the coldest monthly average low to the warmest monthly average high in that season (1991-2020 climate normals), measured at Redmond Roberts Field, 7 mi away, elevation 3,043 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.
🏆 Oregon’s Deepest Gorge — Viewpoint above the Crooked River Gorge — a 300-foot volcanic canyon with a historic 1926 bridge
Peter Skene Ogden State Scenic Viewpoint perches on the rim of the Crooked River Gorge, a dramatic 300-foot-deep canyon carved through volcanic basalt near Terrebonne in Central Oregon. The viewpoint overlooks the historic 1926 steel arch bridge (now pedestrian-only) spanning the gorge, with the modern US-97 bridge adjacent. Far below, the Crooked River winds through columnar basalt walls. The park is named for the Hudson’s Bay Company fur trader who explored Central Oregon in the 1820s. Nearby Smith Rock State Park is visible from the gorge rim.
Visitor Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Terrebonne, Deschutes County, OR |
| Entry Fee | Free |
| Gorge | 300-foot volcanic canyon |
| Bridge | Historic 1926 steel arch (pedestrian) |
| Nearby | Smith Rock State Park |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I walk across the old bridge?
Yes — the historic 1926 Rex T. Barber Veterans Memorial Bridge is now open to pedestrians and provides vertigo-inducing views 300 feet down to the Crooked River.
About Peter Skene Ogden
Peter Skene Ogden State Scenic Viewpoint overlooks the dramatic 300-foot-deep Crooked River Gorge in central Oregon. The gorge was carved through volcanic basalt by the Crooked River over millions of years. The viewpoint also offers views of the historic 1926 highway bridge spanning the chasm — a marvel of early 20th-century engineering.
Things to Do
Viewing the dramatic gorge and bridges (the modern Highway 97 bridge soars 300 feet above the river), photography, and short interpretive walks. The area is a haven for rock climbers on the basalt walls. Smith Rock State Park — Oregon’s premier climbing destination — is just 15 minutes north.
Make it a road trip: Pair a visit with Smith Rock State Park (a short drive away) or Cline Falls State Scenic Viewpoint (a short drive away).
🌉 Visit Peter Skene Ogden SSVP
300-foot volcanic gorge — walk the 1926 bridge over Central Oregon’s deepest canyon.
Wildlife & Nature
Peter Skene Ogden SSV — overlooks the Crooked River Gorge — a 300-foot-deep canyon carved through volcanic basalt. The gorge’s cliff walls, sagebrush, and river support golden eagles, prairie falcons, and river otters. Named for the Hudson’s Bay Company fur trapper who explored the area.
Nearby Attractions
Terrebonne — adjacent. Smith Rock SP — 5 miles south — birthplace of American sport climbing. Redmond — 5 miles east.
🐾 Dogs & Pets at Peter Skene Ogden State Scenic Viewpoint
- Pets allowed? statewide rule
- Pets are welcome in Oregon state parks and on most ocean beaches but must be leashed except in designated off-leash areas.
- Leash rule statewide rule
- Leash no longer than 6 feet required in developed park areas
- Beaches & swim areas statewide rule
- Pets are allowed on most ocean beaches under direct control; western snowy plover nesting areas restrict pets March 15 - Sept. 15; leash required on the beach at some parks (e.g. Cape Lookout)
- Cabins & lodging statewide rule
- Designated pet-friendly yurts and cabins at many parks (South Beach has 14 pet-friendly yurts, Tugman 8); maximum two dogs and/or cats; $10 per night pet fee
- Pet fees statewide rule
- $10 per night for pet-friendly yurts/cabins; no pet fee for day use or campsites
- Statewide exceptions statewide rule
- Pets prohibited at Dabney SRA, the Trail of Ten Falls at Silver Falls, and Shore Acres; off-leash areas at Stub Stewart, Willamette Mission, Elijah Bristow, Cottonwood Canyon and LaPine
Are dogs allowed at Peter Skene Ogden State Scenic Viewpoint?
Pets are welcome in Oregon state parks and on most ocean beaches but must be leashed except in designated off-leash areas. Individual parks can post stricter rules — check signage on arrival.
Rules verified July 2026 via stateparks.oregon.gov. More: Oregon state parks guide · Dog rules in all 50 states compared
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