Hanford: Hike the White Bluffs South Slope Trail

From this trail you can explore the former safety perimeter for the Manhattan Project

©REBECCA BURGHART

The 10-mile (16 km) trail  White Bluffs South Slope Trail in Washington begins atop the bluffs at the White Bluffs Overlook with its sweeping view of the entire White Bluffs/Hanford Reach area, including Manhattan Project facilities such as the B Reactor on the opposite shore.  

To begin your hike, walk around the gate and follow the old paved Ringold Road as it descends the bluffs. Watch for ripple patterns and colorful layers in the cliffs beside the roadway. After about a mile (1.5 km) the road crosses a bench and then descends to river level through a large cut. Follow the road below towering bluffs until you are approximately 2.75 miles (4.42 km) (about 200 yards or 182 meters from the power lines) from the trailhead, then head left across the flats to the trail that climbs into the broad saddle in the low ridge about 100 yards (91.4 meters) away.  

From the saddle go straight ahead on the obvious trail that climbs into a saddle in the higher ridge beyond. If you continue ahead on the pavement, in less than a quarter mile (.40 km) you’ll come to a gate across the road and the south trailhead, which is easily accessible from the Tri-Cities via Taylor Flat and Ringold Roads.  

From here, you can turn right and follow the trail southeast along the crest of the ridge to the high point just beyond the power lines, then drop into the valley for a mile (1.6 km) of easy walking beneath 300-500 foot (91-152 meter) tall cliffs. 

Hiking Tips

Bring plenty of water and wear breathable, light clothes if you go in the spring and summer months. The best times to visit are in the spring and fall when temperatures and conditions are more moderate. It can get very hot in the Hanford Reach and shade trees are rare. Make sure you wear shoes suitable for traveling in steep and rugged terrain. A hat, water, sunglasses, and sunscreen are strongly recommended if you hike this trail between April and September.  

Trail Basics 

The White Bluffs South Trail begins at the White Bluffs Overlook where you can see remains of the town of White Bluffs, such as the White Bluffs Ferry Landing, which is now a boat launch. This is an unmarked but well-traveled trail with many route options. Make sure to remember your route of travel in order to safely return to the trailhead where you started or to another trailhead if that is your destination. 

Getting There 

From I-182, take the Road 68 exit from Pasco and head north on Road 68 until it turns into Taylor Flats. Follow Taylor Flats and take a left after the road ends on Ringold Road. Follow it for a few miles until you reach a sign that instructs you to turn left towards Ringold. Once at Ringold follow the gravel road north until you reach a sign that says no automobiles.  

Details

Duration

6-8 Hours

Activity

Hiking

Pets Allowed

Yes

Activity Fee

No

Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.

Location

White Bluffs South Slope Trail

Hanford Reach National Monument 

Reservations

No

Season

Winter, Spring, Fall

Time of Day

Day

Accessibility Information

None of the Hanford Reach National Monument trails are developed. They are narrow and unmarked. They require several steep uphill climbs and descents on uneven terrain. For more information on accessibility, call the Hanford Reach National Monument at 509-546-8300 or email the monument at [e-mail].