Bethel Ridge

Located between Highway 12 and Highway 410, Bethel Ridge is the last ridgeline separating these highways before they merge near Naches. It's proximity this far east means far better weather and fewer gated roads. The Bethel Ridge Road is one of the finest gravel roads in the region as it climbs up and over Bethel Ridge, nearly to the top. A side road called the tower road, will take vehicles up to the summit area where a large communication tower is located. For the highest point, a high-clearance/4WD meanders through the forest to the summit. Fallen trees will likely impede driving the road so plan on walking.....it's under a mile anyway.

Home

Access:

A few miles east of Rimrock, look for the signed Bethel Ridge Road. Follow the wide gravel road avoiding any smaller turn-offs. Just before reaching the saddle at the top of the ridge, a signed road to the right should say, Tower Road. Take it, it becomes rougher. This road is rocky, well graded but made of large rocks. Most cars could drive it but conditions always change. I have old photos showing it nice and smooth. Where the road bends from the views to go into the woods to reach the communication tower, look for a bumpy road following the rim. Another better road joins this one about 100 yards toward the communication tower.

Washington Hiking

Distance: 0 to 1 mile
Summit Elevation: 6,285 feet
Elevation Gain: 200 feet
Access: Good gravel road, rough rocky road, 4WD road

Route:

Walk or drive the road as far as possible. The further it goes, the rougher the route. Near the top the trail may fade in grass but it re-appears on the other side. Hikers will enjoy the walk, off-roaders will love the challenge of reaching the summit with a vehicle.