Kamiak Butte — Saturday, Aug. 8, 2020

I parked in the upper lot and went up the West End trail, which is steep albeit mostly smooth and clear of obstacles. Shaded by trees, you get brief glimpses of the Palouse. Eventually, I hit the intersection with the Pine Ridge trail, and I took the spur up to the summit—of course, because it's the payoff for the steep West End hike! Nice views from the top, although due to COVID, I didn't want to linger there. It wasn't crowded at all, but still too many people around not wearing masks in the presence of others. Went back down the spur and then took the longer Pine Ridge trail back to the lower parking lot, where I walked back to my car in the upper lot on the paved road. Note the comment on the hike description: "Hiking this loop counter-clockwise is easier on your knees, but if you're looking for a workout, head up clockwise." I went counter-clockwise from the upper lot, and I have bad knees. Even so, it was tough coming down the Pine Ridge trail from the summit, because of the uneven terrain and the rocks. Will definitely do the hike again, though: The views were stellar!