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Hike through a stunning canyon in a state park rich in history from the Ice Age Floods.
From the parking lot at the day use area, look for a paved road that has been blocked to allow for foot or bike traffic. Walk this for one mile, then arrive at a sign that states, 'No Vehicles After This Point'. There may also be an orange sign proclaiming the Park Boundary.
The trail is an old 2-track and is flat for the first mile past the park boundary. Past this, there's a bit of a climb -- keep your eye out and you may spot an old metal raft. Past the climb, the trail continues through a valley with high basalt cliffs on either side. The crumbly basalt and sage brush here call for gaiters at least, long pants are better. It's exposed, too -- wear sunscreen and bring lots of water.
Meandering along the trail, you'll see a good lunch spot just past the raft, which affords visitors a view back down the canyon. Beyond this, you'll have good wildflower spotting at the head of the canyon, look for bitterroot in particular! Wildlife in the canyon is primarily birds: you'll likely see lots of crows, robins and magpies, and maybe even an eagle. On the ground you might be lucky enough to spot a hare.
Three miles in, the jeep track fades away. Turn around here and return the way you came.
WTA Pro Tip: Good side trips can be made to the Dry Falls Information Center, with fabulous views down into the valley, as well as stops at Banks Lake, Northrup Point, Lenore Lake Caves, and the Grand Coulee Dam.
Trailhead
