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Columbia Hills Historical State Park
4.6 ★★★★★ 535 Google reviews · Running trail in Lyle, Washington · Dawn to dusk
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Natural surface
- Loop distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Loop
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Dawn to dusk
Confirmed from Columbia Hills Historical State Park's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Native American petroglyphs adorn the rocks at this popular fishing, camping & walking area.
What runners say about Columbia Hills Historical State Park
“No sewer hookups but they do have a dump station and bathrooms were very clean so we use those and the showers most of the time.”
“Petroglyphs, She Who Watches walking tour, Horsethief Lake, short waterfall hike with beautiful views of the river and mountain…a great stop for any or all of these things.”
“It’s super calm, but there is a bit of noise with the train passing by constantly but I don’t mind it at all.”
Amazing location with an amazing lake for fishing, swimming, kayaking etc. Discover pass is required or pay for day use. They have a small amount of kayak rentals available. You'll have to visit the camp host for details on renting. The RV campsites do not have sewer hookups but have electric and water.
Cute little park with some neat Indian petroglyphs super close. The train was loud…so either bring ear plugs or be a heavy sleeper. Overall, the park host was SUPER FRIENDLY and helpful. Beautiful view of the lake and nice place to walk around. I really liked that there were only around 10 RV spots.
I had no idea this park existed. Looks like great camping, swimming and hiking. But the petroglyphs! Amazing. Literally can see them from the car. So grateful to the Native American tribes who pushed to get these out and accessible. What a sacred treasure.
It would be best when all the flowers are blooming. Also plan ahead and make a reservation for hiking, otherwise there isn't access to She Who Watches. There are still other open areas, but make for a shorter stop. Petroglyphs were definitely a bonus.
Trail conditions & character
“Petroglyphs, She Who Watches walking tour, Horsethief Lake, short waterfall hike with beautiful views of the river and mountain…a great stop for any or all of these things.”
“No sewer hookups but they do have a dump station and bathrooms were very clean so we use those and the showers most of the time.”
“Parking is available closer to the petroglyphs alongside a small boat ramp into the river.”
“I hiked mountain ranch road to vista loop to 8 mile creek, then checked out the ranch and farming equipment.”
“Non issue for me, however about 30-45min east is Mary Hills State park.”
“I would not recommend for light sleepers as there is a train that runs regularly across the lake, and the sound travels.”
Plan your run at Columbia Hills Historical State Park
The practical stuff
- AccessDawn to dusk — the gates close, so do not plan a run that finishes after dark
- SurfaceNatural surface — easiest on the joints and the most fun, but expect roots, rocks and mud after rain
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- LightingRunners report lights on the path — useful for pre-dawn and after-work miles. Lighting and opening hours are separate things, so check both.
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms, water — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Websiteparks.state.wa.us
- Phone(509) 773-3145
- Social Instagram · Facebook
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