Getting Oriented
The Saddle Mountains sit in Grant County in south-central Washington, between the Columbia River and the Wahluke Slope (a wildlife refuge with restricted vehicle access). Mattawa anchors the northern access; the Vantage area on Interstate 90 sits west. The ridge rises 2,000 feet above the river, and the OHV area covers most of the western half of the range. The eastern half is intermixed with private grazing land and is harder to navigate without a current parcel map.
Trail Overview
This is open OHV riding rather than a marked trail system. Riders cross-country across the ridge using a network of unmarked dirt roads, two-tracks, and informal paths. Surface conditions vary: some climbs are loose rock, some sections are sandy wash, some are packed dirt. The west end has more BLM land and clearer access; the east end risks crossing onto private parcels.
Most riders enter from Mattawa and explore north into the range. There is no central staging area. Multi-day groups camp dispersed and ride loops out and back from camp.
Points of Interest
- Saddle Mountains crest. Panoramic views of the Columbia River and the Hanford Reach.
- Petrified wood. The area is known for petrified wood deposits. Casual collection is allowed under BLM rules.
- Hanford Reach National Monument. Visible to the south. Closed to motorized vehicles but a significant landscape feature.
- Wahluke Slope. North of the OHV area. Wildlife refuge with restricted access.
- Sagebrush flats. Open desert terrain typical of the Columbia Basin.
Where to Camp
Dispersed camping is allowed throughout the BLM portion of the area with the 14-day stay limit. There are no developed campgrounds. The Wanapum State Park area west on the Columbia has fee camping. Mattawa has commercial RV parks.
Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Trip
- Visit spring or fall. Summer temperatures top 100°F with no shade.
- Stay on the west end of the range to avoid private-land conflicts.
- All OHVs need a current Washington ORV tab plus a Discover Pass.
- Carry water; the area has no potable water.
- Cell service is spotty.
- Watch for rattlesnakes in warmer months.
- The Hanford Reach National Monument is closed to motorized vehicles. Stay on BLM land.
- Petrified wood collection follows BLM rules: hand collection only, limited quantity, no commercial use.
- Contact the BLM Wenatchee Field Office at 509-665-2100 for current conditions.
