Always thought this hike sounded neat and I was not disappointed! There were plenty of people in all the parking lots on this Memorial Day weekend, but lots of spaces still available near the boat launch. Weather was a perfect mix of clouds and sun.
We crossed the road and started on the sandy trail around 3:30pm. Very glad I put on sunscreen and lip balm as there was no shelter from the sun or wind at the top. Someone has marked a white arrow on the basalt to guide your way up the slope. It was a tricky scramble up the rocks, especially with hiking poles in tow. Took the trail to the right and met only a handful of other hikers along the way. Stayed "snake awake" but I guess the snakes were not awake. Instead, marmots, swooping swallows and a few determined mosquitoes kept us company. Lots of wildflowers still in bloom. Beautiful views over the lake and very peaceful apart from the music blaring from the boats on Banks Lake.
The farther out the trail goes, the harder it becomes to follow, but not impossible and definitely worth the trek. All the wide open space lets the soul breathe. We looped back toward the initial trail split and butt-slid down the slope. Shoes with good traction are very handy. Arrived back at the car around 6:30pm. We took our leisurely time on this hike, so most folks can probably do it in less time.
Personally I see more "Cargo Barge" and less "Steamboat" in the whole rock formation, but the latter is more charming.
Really cool Sate Park too -- pick up a brochure at the ranger station to see all the fun stuff you can do in the campgrounds (kayak and cabin rentals!). Also worth a side trip up to Grand Coulee Dam Visitor Arrival Center to learn plenty of fascinating history of the area.
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