Anyone in Clarkston/Asotin, Wa or Lewiston, Idaho is familiar with this striking feature on the Snake River between Clarkston and Asotin. It rises some 400' above the road and has a sheer face that makes it look like a local version of The Rock of Gibraltar.
I recently noticed a trail leaving a parking area at the junction of Riverside Drive and Critchfield Rd on the south side of the rock and determined to check it out.
A trail indeed exists, albeit a rather a rudimentary one. It is steep in places and could be slippery when wet, but goes all the way to the top in about 1/4 mile with 400' of gain. The view over the river is interesting but the drop down to the roadway is downright intimidating as it is close to vertical.
This is private property but the landowner is kind enough to allow passage as long as users are respectful. A sign states, "keep the gate closed so that the horses don't get out. Walking in is OK."
The hike is short and passes by some interesting rock formations in sandstone on the way as well as a cave in the basalt.
A worthwhile side trip if you are coming or going to the nearby Blue Mtns or areas further up The Snake.
Drive south on Riverside Dr (SR 129) from Clarkston to Critchfield Rd and park in the small lot on the north side of Critchfield. The trail takes off from here.
Comments
Wow, I'm going to have to budget in time for this on my next visit through Clarkston/Asotin. I've always called it the "shark fin," and figured it was off-limits as private property. Nice to know the owner doesn't mind so long as everyone is respectful!
Posted by:
Holly Weiler on Dec 23, 2019 02:25 PM
It's a cool little jaunt if you are in the area.
Posted by:
RichP on Dec 27, 2019 06:13 AM