Overview
Steptoe Butte is a noteworthy geological feature in eastern Washington. Mostly comprised of quartzite, the butte juts out of the rolling Palouse Hills. It forms a visually striking silhouette against the horizon and is open to the public to access. A paved road runs to the summit where you can take in stunning panoramic views of the surrounding hills. It is an excellent daytrip location from the Tri-Cities, especially if you plan on visiting Pullman or Spokane. For more information on what to do in Spokane, check out our article detailing that destination here.
The Park
Steptoe Butte is an official Washington State Park. From the summit, you can see up to 100 miles on clear days. It reaches an elevation of 3,612 feet above sea level and approximately 1,000 feet above the surrounding area. The narrow, winding road makes for an engaging drive as you ascend to the peak. There are picnic tables at the summit providing stunning scenery to accompany your snack. Be sure to pack something to snack on! If you’d like to learn more about the park, check out the official State Parks website here.
Geology
The rock formation on which the butte sits is more than 400 million years old. While this may not seem odd at face value, consider that the underlying basalts throughout the rest of the Palouse region are between only 7-15 million years old. The composition of Steptoe Butte is significantly older than its surroundings. It is largely comprised of exposed bedrock. Additionally, the butte made a name for itself in the wider geological community: Isolated protrusions of bedrock have now come to be known as “steptoes.”
History
The butte was named after Colonel Edward Steptoe, a U.S. Army officer in the 19th century. He is largely remembered for his defeat during the Coeur d’Alene War. This subject is very interesting on its own and is important to our region’s history. If you’d like to learn some more about it, you can read up on the subject here. Essentially, he and 164 men were ambushed by over 1,000 Native American warriors. He survived, but the incident became forever known as the “Steptoe Disaster.” More recently, a hotel stood atop the butte from 1888 to 1908. However, it burned down shortly after closing.
Directions
Driving to Steptoe Butte takes around two hours from the Tri-Cities. To get there, head north out of Pasco on Highway 395. At the small junction of Hatton just north of Connell, take the eastbound exit onto Highway 26. Follow 26 all the way to Colfax, where you can stop to gather any supplies that you may want or need. Head north out of town on Highway 195 and you will see Steptoe Butte on your left in a few short miles. Take the exit and drive carefully to the summit. Get ready to enjoy one of the best views in Eastern Washington!
