Headed to state parks today to make use of the free day.
Getting There & Trailhead
Old Vantage Highway is a paved road that poses no issues for any car. Parking lots are rocky and could be treacherous, but there’s plenty of space to park on the shoulder if you’re unsure.
Main parking area was full with climbers and hikers as I arrived at 11.30am. I continued further along the road and parked at a small lot a couple miles down the highway, since trail system is anyway spanning between these two parking areas. There’re no amenities in any lot/pullout besides the main one.
Hike
From where I parked, trail starts in the coulee and heads towards its walls, soon climbing them in a convenient incline (this is, not too steep and not requiring a rope).
Once at the top, there is a primary trail that you will lose and find, but it’s very much a free-ride hike. When wandering close to the edges, be mindful about numerous climbers. They are unseen but can be heard oftentimes. Try not to cause rockfall by stepping too close to the edge and for sure don’t throw anything down the walls.
Near the main parking area, there’re a few trails of different steepness to get back down to the road - or climb the walls if you’re parked there. For the least steep climb, follow the main trail (wide dirt road) as it curves past distinct rock formation and further southeast until it reaches a gap in rocks; from there, pick your favorite trail on your right.
I chose to return to my car via the road rather than trail. Traffic was light, so there were no issues sharing the road.
Timing, Crowds, and More
I’ve been wandering randomly on top of the coulee walls for about 1.40, including hike back to the car.
Tons of climbers but very few hikers; had the top of the coulee to myself pretty much.
Driving down to boat launch on the Columbia will be a nice addition to a gorgeous day at the Coulee. Watch for a large pullout just as the road makes a sharp turn and starts going downhill; views are especially scenic at that point.
Waterfall is another highlight for sure, but there’s no parking close to it that would make the trail easily accessible. There’s a spot designated as camping area overlooking the waterfall, but I wouldn’t attempt entering it in a low clearance car.
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