My last 12 years living here in Pullman has been an amazing time in my life. Having had the opportunity to explore all the outdoor activities in and around the Pullman area has been exciting. One of my favorite places to hike happens to be in Pullman’s backyard. This place is none other than Kamiak Butte County Park, about 15 miles north of Pullman off Highway 27.
The Palouse area has a rich history and Kamiak Butte is no different. Named after Chief Kamiakin of the Yakama tribe, Kamiak Butte was thought to be part of the remains of an ancient mountain range destroyed by lava flows between 65 million to 2.6 million years ago. Kamiak Butte County Park was established in September 1979 and is one of nearly 600 landmarks to be considered a National Natural Landmark.
Being located close to Pullman, Kamiak Butte was one of the first parks I visited after moving to WSU. I was pleasantly surprised at the upkeep of Pine Ridge Trail, the 3.5 mile loop that begins in the parking area and zigzags through the forested area up to the ridge. From the ridge, breathtaking views of the Palouse can be seen in almost every direction. Following the trail around, the backside leads hikers through a steeper and more dense area of forest. To my surprise, on my first ascent to the top, I rounded a corner to find the ground covered in snow even though there was no snow in Pullman, (this reminded me of my original home in the German foothills).
In addition to the hiking trail, the park offers camping year round. The picnic area offers tables, cooking grills, campfire pits, 3 smaller shelters (Pine Shelter), and 1 larger shelter (Larch Shelter). Camping and shelter use both have a cost for use. Shelters require reservations and camping is first come, first serve. Its location about a mile from the highway and surrounded by trees, camping at Kamiak Butte is a wonderful get-away for a night or two to reconnect with the outdoors.
Because of its geological history, scenic views, great hiking trail and location, I highly recommend to everyone a visit to Kamiak Butte at least once; it will likely be a place you will continue to visit throughout your time in Pullman.
