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Washtucna Coulee - Kahlotus Railroad Grade

Central Washington > Tri-Cities
46.6635, -118.4836 Map & Directions
Length
8.0 miles, roundtrip
Elevation Gain
30 feet
Highest Point
900 feet
Calculated Difficulty About Calculated Difficulty
Moderate
Photo by trip reporter greymstreet.
  • Wildflowers/Meadows
  • Wildlife
  • Rivers

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The Washtucna Coulee - Kahlotus Railroad Grade will take you past the dried basin of the ancient Lake Kahlotus and through to the eerie former railroad tunnel in Devils Canyon. Continue reading

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Hiking Washtucna Coulee - Kahlotus Railroad Grade

During the last great Ice Age, the Great Missoula Floods carved out deep channels with notably steep walls and flat valley floors known as coulees. This includes the Washtucna Coulee which offers stunning views of the Snake River plateau, Devils Canyon and much more.

The Washtucna Coulee - Kahlotus Railroad Grade will take you past the dried basin of the ancient Lake Kahlotus and through to the eerie former railroad tunnel in Devils Canyon. For an 8.0-mile hike, after taking in the views at the other side of the tunnel, head back to the trailhead.

History enthusiasts can delight in remnants of the railroad. Those more interested in natural history can marvel at the geological impact of the Great Missoula Floods that remain even to this day. Along the way, spot some splendid plants and wildflowers, like sage violets, buttercups, desert parsley and more.

Washtucna Coulee - Kahlotus Railroad Grade

Map & Directions

Trailhead
Co-ordinates: 46.6635, -118.4836 Open in Google Maps

Before You Go

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Parking Pass/Entry Fee

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WTA Pro Tip: Save a copy of our directions before you leave! App-based driving directions aren't always accurate and data connections may be unreliable as you drive to the trailhead.

Getting There

From Kahlotus, head east on WA-260 E. About 4 miles from the city, turn right on Fry Road to park. This will take you to the eastern end of the trail.

More Hike Details

Trailhead

Central Washington > Tri-Cities

Washington State Department of Natural Resources

Guidebooks & Maps

Best Desert Hikes: Washington (Bauer & Nelson - Mountaineers Books)

Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Connell

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Washtucna Coulee - Kahlotus Railroad Grade

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