Hiking the Pine Ridge Trail at Kamiak Butte County Park

Kamiak Butte County Park sits between Pullman and Palouse in Whitman County and has about five miles of trail, including the Pine Ridge Trail, a roughly 3.5 mile loop that climbs a forested ridge to sweeping views of the Palouse farmland. The park is open 7 a.m. to dusk with no admission fee, though it can close during fire season, so check before you go.

This week's theme is hikes. Details below were checked against official sources on the dates listed. Hours, fees, and access can change, so confirm before you go.

Kamiak Butte County Park

A Whitman County park on a forested butte with picnic shelters, a playground, a small campground, and about five miles of hiking trails winding up to a ridge with views across the Palouse.

• Access or hours: Gated park open 7 a.m. to dusk; may close during fire season. Address: Kamiak Butte County Park Road, Palouse, WA 99161. Whitman County Parks and Recreation, 509-397-6238.
• Fees: No admission fee, donations welcome. Camping is a separate fee.
• Verified as of September 1, 2026
• Official information

Pine Ridge Trail

A loop trail at Kamiak Butte, about 3.5 miles round trip with roughly 900 feet of elevation gain to a high point near 3,600 feet, alternating between shaded Ponderosa pine and Douglas-fir forest and open ridge views. A short spur leads to a summit picnic table.

• Access or hours: Starts from the park's day-use parking area. Dogs allowed on leash. No parking pass or fee required. Rated moderate; the Washington Trails Association notes it can be hot, so start early.
• Fees: Free
• Verified as of September 1, 2026
• Official information

Before you go

Check the official links above for the current day's hours, closures, and seasonal limits. Weather on the Palouse changes quickly, so plan for wind and temperature swings.

Next step

New to the area and planning weekends? Start with the relocation resource.

About the author

Jordan Vorderbrueggen writes about buying and selling homes in Pullman, Moscow, and across the Palouse with Woodbridge Real Estate. Hard to Spell, Tough to Beat.