Balancing Rocks Overlook
Ghostly pedestals on the canyon’s rim
Ghostly pedestals on the canyon’s rim
Beyond Cove Palisades State Park and over miles of winding back roads, more than 30 pillars stand guard over the Metolius Arm of Lake Billy Chinook. If you’re in the area, this short, barrier-free hike to see Oregon’s “hoodoos”—towering rock formations that are more than 20,000 years old—is well worth the time.
Balancing Rocks is located in the Deschutes National Forest. PGE manages this site in partnership with the U.S. Forest Service.
Balancing Rocks is open year-round for day use only. Please check weather and road conditions. Be sure to also take a look at our Parks & Recreation Rules page.
Directions: From Cove Palisades State Park, head east on SW Jordan Rd to Grandview. Turn left on SW Graham Rd. This will become Montgomery Rd/County Rd 64; look for a small trailhead on the right.
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Things to know before you visit
Use our contact form or call the PGE Parks Information Line at 503-464-8515.
We’re committed to keeping our parks safe, clean, sustainable and welcoming – but we need your help.
Before you go
Make a plan: Check for road closures, construction, fire bans, swimming restrictions or other conditions that may hamper your visit.
…and a plan B: Make a backup plan in case of crowds. Try visiting on weekdays or at off-peak times to beat the masses!
EV adventuring? While our parks do not have charging stations (yet!), check here for nearby locations
that do.
During your visit
Stop campfires from becoming wildfires! Keep campfires small, make sure your tent and anything that can burn is a safe distance from your fire, keep water nearby and never leave a fire unattended.
Keep it clear: Park only in designated areas. Do not double-park or block entrances.
Leave no trace: Help us protect these natural areas by staying on-trail, packing out your trash, and admiring wildlife from a distance.