Wild Horses Monument
Central WashingtonBest Apr–Oct
A steep five-minute scramble to 15 life-size steel horses galloping along a ridgeline above the Columbia River at Vantage.
About This Trail
The sculpture "Grandfather Cuts Loose the Ponies" stands on a windswept ridge above Wanapum Lake, where I-90 crosses the Columbia River at Vantage. Fifteen life-size steel horses charge across the skyline, released from a tipped basket by the Great Spirit. Artist David Govedare began the work in 1989. The rust patina on the steel gives them a warm tone against the desert sky.
The walk from the parking lot covers about two-tenths of a mile on a steep, loose gravel path. Trekking poles help on the way down. The payoff at the top is the sculpture itself plus sweeping views of the Columbia River gorge, the Saddle Mountains, and the surrounding shrub-steppe. Photographers do well at sunset when the horses silhouette against the western sky.
This works best as a quick roadside stop on I-90 rather than a standalone destination. The access road from eastbound I-90 closes for winter (typically November through March). No westbound exit exists; use exits 136 or 143 to loop back. The parking lot holds about 25 vehicles with no amenities.
Astronomy
Trail Conditions
“Arrived at the trailhead at 10:30, there were only two other cars in the lot.”
Last report: May 10, 2026
Scorecard
Safety & Considerations
Today's Hazard
- Strong sun — sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses recommended; water reflection adds glare near the lake
Persistent Hazards
- steep loose gravel trail
- strong ridge winds
- no shade or water
- graffiti occasionally on sculptures
Getting There
Free. About 25 vehicle spots. No restrooms or amenities. Access road from eastbound I-90 only (Exit 139). No westbound exit; use Exit 136 or 143 to loop back.
From Ellensburg, take I-90 east past Vantage. After crossing the Columbia River, take Exit 139. Turn right and follow pavement 0.5 miles to the parking lot. Westbound travelers must exit at 136 or 143 and loop back to eastbound I-90.
Sunset silhouettes the horses and provides the best photo conditions. Midday summer heat makes the exposed ridge uncomfortable. Best combined with a stop at Ancient Lakes or Ginkgo Petrified Forest nearby.
Recent Reports
Arrived at the trailhead at 10:30, there were only two other cars in the lot. This trail is short but steep and the material on the climb up is loose.
Like many eastern Washingtonians, I had driven by "Grandfather Cuts Loose the Ponies" dozens of times and planned to stop for a closer look "someday. " Well, someday was March 16, 2026.
The trail up to the monument/sculptures is STEEP but well worth it. The sculptures are gorgeous up close and the views of the Columbia River are spectacular.
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