Steptoe Butte is an iconic natural landmark in eastern Washington, offering stunning 360-degree views from its 3,612-foot summit. A narrow paved road winds around the butte, leading to a parking area at the summit. Steptoe Butte has become an archetype, as isolated protrusions of bedrock, such as summits of hills or mountains, in lava flows have come to be called “steptoes”. In 1946, Virgil McCroskey donated 120 acres (49 ha) of land to form the park, which was later increased to over 150 acres (61 ha). The rock that forms the butte is over 400 million years old, in contrast with the 15–7 million year old Columbia River Basalts that underlie the rest of the Palouse. One sign shares the history of the Cashup Hotel, which once stood atop the butte. Interpretive signs provide information on the site’s natural history and surrounding mountain ranges. Steptoe Butte is a thimble-shaped, 3,612-foot tall quartzite butte in southeast Washington. Steptoe Butte Reopens After Yearlong Closure for Road Work Listen to the Audio Guide for insider tips, fascinating facts, and stories that enrich your journey. Steptoe Butte has historical significance as it served as a lookout point during the Nez Perce War in 1877, witnessing the movement of both the Nez Perce tribe and the U.S. The park is named after Colonel Edward J. Steptoe, a U.S. Popular activities include sight-seeing, paragliding, hang gliding, kite and model airplane flying, and photography. The owners planned to protect their 437 acres (177 ha) of land from development, eventually donating it to the state. “Cashup” Davis stood atop the butte from 1888 to 1908, burning down in 1911. Call the park for conditions. During winter, the road is not maintained. See all other general park rules We recently completed repaving work on the road to improve your experience, access and safety. Popular Holidays This 1,144-acre (463 ha) area, designated in 1965, includes land in state and county ownership. Steptoe Butte is a quartzite island jutting out of the silty loess of the Palouse hills in Whitman County, Washington, in the northwest United States. Learn about seasonal closures and operational changes during the off-season on the Winter Schedule page. Colors seem to shift and change in the light. It stands out against soft hills of green and mauve, an occasional barn dotting the landscape. Groups coming in buses, please schedule with the park. Activities and amenities A visit to Steptoe Butte State Park in Washington offers breathtaking natural beauty and sweeping vistas. This road features several viewpoints along the way, allowing visitors to experience the breathtaking scenery from different angles.2. The park was initially closed following a flood in late February 2025, and crews then began the road work last spring, leading to several delays in getting the butte back open to the public. The iconic Washington landmark will welcome visitors again this Sunday. Experienced paragliders and hang gliders can enjoy an uncommon view of the park. Steptoe Butte State Park Please “know before you go!” Check park alerts, road conditions and […]