- 100 Classic Hikes of Washington, Hiking
Steamboat Rock Hike: 100 Classic Hike of Washington
Steamboat Rock trail is one of the most magnificent hikes in the Washington State Park System. As one of the best hikes in Washington, one would think that the trail would be extremely busy, however I had the trail entirely to myself.
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Comprehensive Guide to Hiking Steamboat Rock Trail
Steamboat Rock Trail Information
General Information:
Region: Eastern Washington
Distance: 4.0 miles
Elevation Gain: 1000′ Gain
When to go: Year-Round
Pass/Permit?: Discovery Pass
Dogs Allowed?: On-Leash
Bathrooms?: At Trailhead
Located in Steamboat Rock State Park in Coulee County, Washington, the park has a number of trails to offer as well as beautiful campsites throughout the park.
Not sure what to bring on your hike? Check Out: Ten Hiking Essentials
Trailhead Parking
Near the end of the park road hikers will find plenty of parking spaces available along with bathrooms. The trailhead can be found across the road from the parking space. Just look for a sandy trail and a trail post!
Passes/Permits
This trail is located in a Washington State Park which requires a State Park Pass, the Discover Pass.
The Discover Pass as an annual fee of $35 dollars and can be purchased here or during your Washington Car Tabs Renewal.
Hiking Steamboat Rock Trail
The elevation gain of this hike is attributed to the ascent along the butte. Hikers will begin with a relatively flat, meandering trail that will bring them to the base of the Butte. With a little scrambling, hikers will find themselves on top of the butte with extensive views of the surrounding area. The trail splits off and hikers can choose to follow the path in the direction of their choosing. I chose to hike Steamboat Rock by following the trail counterclockwise.
Once on top of the steamboat rock butte, there is little elevation change. The trail follows along the outside of the butte providing hikers views of Banks Lake and Grand Coulee.
Throughout the park there are a number of deer and rabbits, which means the park is also home to predators such as bears, bobcats, and coyotes. When it comes to mammals in the park, I only saw deer. But I did see a number of eagles, crows, and ducks.
Steamboat Rock was once an island in the Columbia River bed during the Great Missoula Flood. When the flood subsided, the large basalt butte was left behind and became an important landmark for native tribes.
Want to learn about another amazing 100 Classic Hike in Washington?
Check Out: White Bluffs
This short hike has become one of my favorites in Washington because of the unique views it has to offer. The Steamboat Rock Trail makes me feel as if I were in a different country since the scenery is unlike everything I am used to seeing in Washington. On top of the butte, I hiked past a number of deer and could see eagles circling overhead.
Should Steamboat Rock be a 100 Classic Hike of Washington?
This should absolutely be a 100 Classic Hike of Washington. The formation of the Butte is significant to the natural history of the state. Steamboat Rock has an exclusive landscape unlike anything the rest of the state has to offer and should be experienced by everyone. There are a number of butte hikes on the list but none as strikingly beautiful as this.
What Else is There to do Near Steamboat Rock?
After exploring this hike, I would encourage you to visit Dry Falls State Park. Just as Steamboat Rock was formed by the 200 mile stretch of the Missoula Flood, one of the largest waterfalls in the history of the United States was also formed. No longer flowing with water, Dry Falls was 3.5 miles wide with a 400 ft drop. You can stop for a quick view of Dry Falls at the overlook or enjoy a close up view of the area by doing another hike!
Meet the Author -
Sarah Borgen
I am an Educator and outdoor Enthusiast based out of Seattle and writer of Exploren Borgen! My adventures consist of weekends spent in the woods, on a hike, car camping, and taking a deep breath of fresh air. When not on an adventure, you can find me in a classroom teaching high school science! I love having a job that allows me to the opportunity to discuss things like conservation, sustainability, and accessibility.
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Meet the author
Sarah Borgen, AKA your outdoor bestie
I’m an outdoorsy educator and adventure advocate, which is why I’m passionate about creating resources – like blogs, guides, and interactive maps – to simplify your travels. I’m eager to share some of Washington’s greatest destinations and hidden gems with you.
