Steamboat Rock — Saturday, May. 14, 2016

Central Washington > Grand Coulee

Long drive from Seattle area but lots to see along the way. Wild flowers, wind farms, strong smell of smoke at the Wild Horses Lookout Point by the Gorge. Lots of camping and fishing along the Coulee Corridor. The drive made me feel thankful for farmers and ranchers and dads who take their kids fishing. I saw a few dogs on the hike but I'm glad I left my pups at home. I was worried it would be too hot and rocky on their little feet. It was warm but not too hot with a nice breeze. The first mile is uphill, sand then scree then dry dirt. Tons of flowers and incredible views from beginning to end. This is a great hike for rockhounds and geologists. Also for bird watchers and flower lovers. I saw: A weasel Ravens Bald eagle Vultures- 7 circling overhead Beetles- big ones Caterpillars and butterflies Lots of gnats but no mosquitos I heard birds the whole time. Chirping, whistling, and some that sound like R2D2. Next time I'll stay the night so I can do a sunset hike. As I drove away and saw Steamboat Rock in my rear view mirror the rain started to fall. Beautiful drive home on Hiway 2.