“And on the fourth day of May the Dark Lord of the Sith said ‘Let there be scree’ and behold, hiking at Steamboat Rock, there was scree, and he was pleased.”
Steamboat Rock is an excellent hike with amazing views found between Grand Coulee and Coulee City. It is found in Steamboat Rock State Park which requires a Discovery Pass. The trailhead can be found right across from the restroom and tent park near the end of the park road, if you hit the boat launch you went too far.
The trail starts off easily enough, with a well-groomed path and mild elevation gain. The continued views of Steamboat Rock as the path continues are excellent and are currently also filled with balsamroot flowers.
Then the climb to the top begins. This part of the trail is almost entirely scree and can be steep at times. Even though this part of the hike is less than a mile, it takes the most time and effort due to the need to watch footing, however the payoff at the top is worth it.
Once the scree climb is done, the path becomes well defined and relatively flat again and branches off in multiple directions to different viewpoints, but the main loop is to the right. From above there are fantastic views of Devil’s Punch Bowl, Banks Lake, and Northup Canyon. The top is also currently covered in various colored Lupine that add to the scenery.
There were a few insects including a small number of bees doing their thing. There was also one rattlesnake that was given a wide birth by both hiker and bird. There were plenty of areas to rest up top, but it was very exposed to the sun, so take precautions.
The trip back down the scree can be very challenging in spots but taking it slow will lead to success and a safe journey back down.
May the Fourth be with you!
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