Steptoe Butte State Park

Located near Washington state's eastern border in Whitman County, and featuring a thimble-shaped, quartzite butte that looms over the surrounding flatlands, Steptoe Butte State Park is famous for the panoramic view it provides of surrounding farmlands, and the Blue Mountains. From the top of the butte, the visitor can see other ranges and peaks at a distance of 200 miles. Native Americans called the butte "the power mountain", believing that the mountain's guardian spirit bestowed a gift of power those who came to visit. The butte is named after Colonel Edward Steptoe, whose men were killed in a conflict, which he tried to prevent, with Native Americans. Interpretive signs provide information on the butte, surrounding mountain ranges, and the history of the Cashup Hotel, which once stood on top of the butte. The park is open year round for day use only, and offers seven unsheltered picnic tables and four braziers for cooking.