Catch the Sunset at Wild Horse Monument

If you're traveling along Hwy 90 in the middle of Washington State, the Wild Horse Monument is a fun and rather quick area to explore. Located 30 miles east of Ellensburg and 60 miles northwest of Yakima, the monument is located just across the Columbia River as you head east. 

As you drive, there are a couple signs which will indicate the location and distance to the monument. Once off the highway, there is a paved parking lot a mere 100 yards away. The parking lot itself offers some great views of the Columbia River, but a little bit of effort climbing towards the Wild Horses will yield even better views. The hike to the top is less than a 1/2 mile with only 150 feet of elevation. However, the path up is filled with gravel and loose rock so be slightly careful. 

Once at the end of the trail you'll encounter 15 life sized horses galloping atop the hill. Explore each of the horses, but make sure you head toward the lead horse for the most sweeping, panoramic views above the Columbia River Gorge. Both sunrise and sunset yield some spectacular colors here, not only from those changing in the sky but also the landscape and rocks surrounding the river. If you're in the area, it's a can't-miss.