Peshastin Pinnacles State Park

Peshastin Pinnacles State Park sits on a sun-baked hillside above the Wenatchee Valley, where sandstone towers and spires rise from dry grass slopes. The short loop trail zigzags up through the base of the climbing areas, passing bizarre rock formations including a tree growing straight out of solid sandstone. The terrain here looks nothing like the wet west side of the Cascades.

The recommended route goes left (counterclockwise) from the trailhead, ascending with vineyard views to the east and descending with broader valley panoramas to the west. The trail surface is sandy and eroded, especially at switchback corners, so poles help on the steeper pitches. Climbers frequent the base of the pinnacles, and watching them work routes adds to the scene.

Spring wildflowers put on a strong show here. Balsamroot carpets the hillsides in late April, with lupine following close behind. The east-side location means far more sunshine than Seattle, making this a reliable dry-weather destination when the west side sits under clouds. A picnic area with restrooms sits near the parking lot.