At Frenchman Coulee we will take a steep rocky trail to see large specimens of Phlox speciousa and Erigeron thymoides across the top of the basalt columns. Once you gain the top, the trails are relatively flat and easy compared to some of the rocky steep stretches on the way up. The difficult parts of the trail are fairly short, and can be navigated easily with a hiking pole and shoes with good tread. Length of trip will be approximately 4 hours.
Meeting Location + Time: Meet at 9:30 at the Ginkgo Petrified Forest Interpretive Center ( if you want to caravan to the Trailhead. Or if you want to meet at the Trailhead at 10:00 a.m. head east on I-90 and take exit 143, to Silica Road and The Gorge Amphitheater. At the bottom of the ramp, go left under the freeway for 0.7 mile. Turn left on Vantage Road SW. A Discover Pass is required beyond this point. Meet at the parking area past the camping area. There are several vaulted restrooms there.
Registration link not working? Email cbwnpsfieldtrips@gmail.com and include the name of the hike you’re interested in registering for.
You will receive a confirmation email with any additional instructions for that trip.
The weekend of April 28 through April 30 offers an opportunity to get out of town and spend time immersed in the local flora. These Wildflower Walks/hikes will take place on Friday, Saturday and Sunday with opportunity to camp overnight near Vantage and share plant stories around the campfire. Spectacular basalt cliffs and colorful blooms await. When registering, let us know what hikes you’re interested in attending and if you plan on camping.
Friday Basalt Gardens
Saturday for Frenchman Coulee
Sunday The Quillomene
Things to Note:
Dates and times for field trips/activities are subject to change depending on weather and access issues. We will always make an effort to contact registered participants regarding any changes.
All participants will need to fill out a WNPS Liability Release form. Folks under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent of legal guardian.
Long pants and closed toed shoes are recommended. Bring water and snacks.
All our activities are volunteer led. As part of the Washington Native Plant Society mission, the chapter hosts field trips and programs about native flora that are open to the membership and to the public. Anyone interested in learning about the plants of the local shrub steppe and the Blue Mountains are welcome to register for field trips and join in on our activities. No special experience or knowledge required!
Interested in becoming a member of our chapter? Learn more about our mission and how to join.