Hike of the Week: Saddle Rock

Balsamroot brighten the bare slopes of Wenatchee's Saddle Rock

Saddle Rock

Gallop to incredible views




by Craig Romano
photo by Craig Romano
produced by Michael Fagin

April 28, 2006

Quick Facts
Location: Wenatchee, Washington
Land Agency: Washington State Department of Natural Resources
Roundtrip: 3.3 miles
Elevation gain: 1,000 feet
Access: From Downtown Wenatchee follow Orondo Avenue to Miller Street. Continue south on Miller Street to its terminus at a junction. Turn right (west) and follow Dry Gulch Road a short distance to its terminus near the Appleatchee Equestrian Center. Park near gate. Trail begins on old dirt road behind gate.
Green Trails Map: Wenatchee/ Mission Ridge No. 211S
Notes: Dogs must be leashed.


The Central Washington city of Wenatchee sits in a scenic bowl on the banks of the Columbia River. Surrounded by a dramatic landscape where the snowy Cascades yield to the golden hills of the Columbia Plateau, Wenatchee lies in one of Washington’s highly scenic transition zones. Long an agricultural center and transportation hub, hikers and other outdoors recreationists are beginning to discover this small and friendly city.
Rising immediately above the city’s western neighborhoods is a series of rocky buttes. Castle Rock, Old Butte, Saddle Rock, and the Rooster Comb-these prominent landmarks not only give the city a scenic backdrop but also thanks to local conservationists, provide wonderful hiking opportunities literally in Wenatchee’s backyard.
Since 1985 the Chelan-Douglas Land Trust has been working with the Washington Department of Natural Resources, the city, and local land owners in developing a system of trails. Collectively known as the Foothills Trail, they’re open to hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians; providing these users outstanding recreational opportunities-and breathtaking views.
Although maintenance tends to be minimal, the trails are well-defined and easy to follow. They aren’t signed however, so be sure to get a map from the land trust. A good sampler is the trail up Saddle Rock. Short and steep, the old jeep track climbs 1,000 feet to reach a high ridge nearly 2,000 feet high. Now turn south and follow the ridge a short distance to jagged Saddle Rock. Enjoy incredible views of the Columbia River and of the city directly below. Enjoy too, views of Mission Ridge and the Entiat Mountains.
In spring, the hike to Saddle Rock is especially rewarding as wildflowers, particularly balsamroot-otherwise known as the desert sunflower-paint the ridges and canyons in brilliant colors.