First time in the Coulee region of Washington, which is quite beautiful in the spring. Despite earlier trip reports indicating that the initial climb on the trip was difficult, decided to try Steamboat Rock with our two dogs, one large and one small. The initial climb is difficult, made more difficult by the fact that our larger dog can't be let off her leash or she will stray and pulled us up the rocks and scree that make up the trail. The dogs and their people made it up the trail in fine fashion.
When we got to the trail junction just below the top of the rock, we first went south, then came back down to the junction, went to the northern section of the rock and explored the top. Once you get to the top, the hiking is easy. Wildflowers were out, although I think we were a little late for peak wildflower bloom. The views were exceptional and well worth the effort required to get to the top.
Coming down was relatively uneventful except for a minor fall just near the trail junction. Our big dog was very motivated and was pulling throughout the day, but she made it down safely. Overall a lovely hike, and we really enjoyed the Coulee area.
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