Rising dramatically from the heart of Washington’s desert, Umatilla Rock is a striking remnant of the Ice Age floods. Surrounded by the rugged beauty of Sun Lakes-Dry Falls State Park, this scenic hike offers a journey through an otherworldly landscape of towering basalt cliffs, sweeping coulees, and stark, desert terrain.
Tucked within Sun Lakes-Dry Falls State Park, Umatilla Rock rises from the heart of Washington’s otherworldly desert landscape—a towering remnant of the Ice Age floods that shaped this region.
While most visitors only see it from the scenic overlook off Highway 17, few take the opportunity to experience this incredible formation up close.
The Umatilla Rock Trail offers a unique chance to hike around the base of this geological landmark before leading you to the park’s namesake, Dry Falls. With no elevation gain, it’s an easy trek where you can soak in the striking scenery without breaking a sweat.
And if you make the effort to explore this seldom-traveled path, you’ll be among the rare few who can say they’ve seen Umatilla Rock from the ground up. But be sure to stop by the overlook afterward—it’s just as impressive from above!
Best time to hike Umatilla Rock Trail
The best time to hike the Umatilla Rock Trail is during spring and fall when temperatures are mild. Spring (March–May) offers warm weather, making for a pleasant trek through the desert terrain. Fall (September–November) offers crisp air and golden hues, creating a stunning contrast against the rugged basalt formations.
Summer (June–August) can be extremely hot, with no shade along the trail. If hiking during this time, start early in the morning, bring plenty of water, and wear sun protection.
Winter (December–February) is generally mild, but occasionally there can be snow or ice on the trail. Checking conditions beforehand and dressing in layers will help ensure a safe and enjoyable hike.
How to hike the Umatilla Rock Trail
Start the hike at the Umatilla Rock Trailhead. To reach the trailhead, drive down State Park Road and follow the signs to Dry Falls Lake. You’ll know you’ve arrived at the trailhead when you see Umatilla Rock towering dramatically over the landscape—it’s impossible to miss! The parking area is located right beneath the rock itself.
This hiking trail forms a loop around Umatilla Rock, so you can start the hike in either direction. There is no need to worry about getting lost because there are red markers to guide you along the way. We hiked along the eastern side of Umatilla Rock first and returned on the western side.
The full loop spans three miles. On the trail, you’ll pass through mint-green sagebrush and encounter intriguing rock stacks. These bizarre rock formations are fun to explore and will leave you wondering how they ended up in such unusual positions.
Once you reach the far end of Umatilla Rock, you’ll see a spur trail that will take you to Green Lake and another spur trail that leads to Dry Falls Lake. If you have time feel free to explore beyond Umatilla Rock.
The spur trail to Dry Falls Lake is short, and at the end, you’ll not only see the lake but also get an up-close view of Dry Falls. This ancient waterfall was once the largest in North America—four times the size of Niagara Falls! It’s a stunning reminder of the cataclysmic Ice Age floods that shaped this dramatic landscape.
Continue the hike back towards the trailhead along the western side of Umatilla Rock to complete the loop hike. On the way back you’ll pass by Perch Lake which is worth a quick stop to see.
Tips for hiking the Umatilla Rock Trail
- Eastern Washington is rattlesnake territory, and there are plenty of rattlesnakes on the trails out here—trust me, I’ve seen them! While it’s perfectly fine to hike around Umatilla Rock in tennis shoes, it’s a good idea to wear hiking boots for that extra layer of protection.
- Keep an eye out for rattlesnakes especially in the early morning and late afternoon during the warmer months. We encountered four on the Umatilla Rock hiking trail! If you get too close, they will rattle their tails as a warning. Even if you don’t see them but hear them, proceed with caution. Due to this risk, bringing your dog on this trail is not recommended.
- Eastern Washington can get extremely hot in the summer, with temperatures often surpassing 90°F. While the Umatilla Rock hike is short, it’s smart to carry water with you on your hike, particularly during the summer months.
- During the off-season, the gates to the road leading to the Umatilla Rock trailhead may be closed. However, hiking is still allowed—you’ll just need to walk an extra mile to reach the trailhead.
- A Discover Pass is required to enter Sun Lakes Dry Falls State Park. You can pick up an annual park pass here or pay $11.50 for day use at the park.
Discover more hidden gems near Umatilla Rock
Sun Lakes-Dry Falls State Park is home to Dry Falls, a massive geological wonder carved by Ice Age floods, as well as multiple lakes, all set against the dramatic backdrop of the Columbia Plateau.
Steamboat Rock State Park is a stunning 3,500-acre park offering dramatic cliffs, hiking trails, and spectacular views of Banks Lake. It’s a perfect summertime destination for outdoor recreation like swimming, paddleboarding, and fishing.
Soap Lake is a unique mineral-rich lake known for its healing waters that attracts visitors seeking relaxation and wellness.
Grand Coulee Dam is one of the largest concrete dams in the world! Stop by the dam’s visitor center for guided tours and to see informative exhibits about its construction.
Where to stay near Umatilla Rock
For those looking to extend their adventure, Sun Lakes-Dry Falls State Park offers a well-equipped campground with plenty of amenities. The park features 150 campsites, including 41 full-hookup sites, all set in a shady, scenic environment.
Each campsite comes with a firepit, perfect for cozy evenings under the stars. The campground also has a dump station, six restrooms, and twelve showers to ensure a comfortable stay.
If you prefer a more structured overnight option, the park also offers basic-style cabins located near the lake. These rustic accommodations provide a convenient and scenic retreat for visitors who want to experience the park’s beauty without pitching a tent.
Where is Umatilla Rock?
The Umatilla Rock hiking trail is located inside Sun Lakes-Dry Falls State Park, which is situated right in the middle of Washington State, halfway between Seattle and Spokane. Coming from either of those cities, you’ll need to take Highway 2 to Highway 17. Travelers from the Tri-Cities can reach the park by taking Highway 395 north to Highway 17.
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