Looking for an active road trip adventure? Get out your mountain or hybrid bike, pack your hiking boots and plan to visit a little-known Washington treasure. 

The 3,876-acre, 130-mile Columbia Plateau State Park Trail is one of the state's hidden riches; explorers who find it are rewarded with big eastern Washington skies, rolling landscapes and unforgettable journeys. 

Start from the Fish Lake trailhead at the trail's northern end. Pass through 4.75 miles of Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge, home to deer, elk, moose, small mammals and 200 species of birds. (The best times to visit are early morning and evening.) Between March and May, and September and November, you'll be treated to spring and fall bird migrations; you may even see a trumpeter swan. The 23-mile improved trail provides rest and swim stops at Cheney and Amber Lake and ends at Martin Road. Most hikers arrange for an overnight stay or a car shuttle. The first 3.75 miles is an asphalt trail; the remaining 19.25 miles are crushed gravel.

The southern end of the trail overlays the former Spokane, Portland and Seattle Railroad opened in 1908. The trail follows the Snake River from the impressive Ice Harbor Dam to the Snake River Junction 15 miles north. This section made of crushed gravel welcomes walkers, bikers and equestrians. The trail has several U.S. Army Corps of Engineers access points.

The trail's nearly 100-mile midsection remains undeveloped and goes for long stretches without resources such as food supplies, potable water and first aid. It is only recommended for expert long-distance hikers who undertake careful planning. 

Columbia Plateau is part of State Parks' commitment to long-distance recreation trails, and long-range plans include developing trail through Devil's Canyon to Benge, with segments along the Palouse River and a connection to Sacajawea State Park. 

Once you've covered the two ends of the trail, why not check out Washington's state waterfall and its dramatic surroundings at Palouse Falls State Park. Plan a picnic overlooking the falls before starting the last leg of travel – the drive home. 

Columbia Plateau State Park Trail

If eastern Washington calls to you, Lyons Ferry State Park is sure to enthrall. Tree-shaded green lawns gracefully slope to the cooling waters of the Snake and Palouse rivers. The hills of the Palouse, on a landscape carved by powerful Ice Age floods, lie beyond the water.

This day-use park also may awaken your inner historian: In addition to its interesting geology, the park was long home to Native people, including the Palouse Indian Tribe. Its history includes a visit by the 34-member Corps of Discovery that included Lewis and Clark, on their westward journey in October 1805. Later in the 19th century, the park became the site of a ferry crossing that served the area for more than 100 years.

For those who want to relax and enjoy, the wide spot on the rivers is a lure for picnickers, boaters, swimmers and water sports fans, as well as anglers casting out for the catch of the day.

Nearby Palouse Falls State Park offers spectacular views of Washington's state waterfall. For more land-based activities in the area, bring bikes and ride the Columbia Plateau State Park Trail from Ice Harbor Dam to the Snake River Junction. Camping is available at Lewis and Clark Trail State Park 45 minutes away.

State Parks Tagged With: Washtucna