Trail Overview
Cayuse Creek Cruise is an exciting moderate-intensity route perfect for intermediate offroaders looking to explore the scenic shrubsteppe of Washington's L.T. Murray Wildlife Area down to the Columbia River. Spanning approximately 6.2 miles, this four-wheel-drive trail starts near the Pumphouse area and descends to the banks of the river, offering a mix of rolling hills and challenging terrain. Along the way, drivers will navigate steep and off-camber sections, large loose rocks, and deep ruts carved by seasonal rain runoff. This route demands careful line selection and a capable high-clearance vehicle, particularly when dealing with the technical challenges rated at a moderate 4. The journey treats travelers to sweeping views of the Columbia River, the Wild Horse Wind Farm, Sentinel Gap, and the majestic Saddle Mountains.
The trail’s elevation ranges from a low point of 579 feet near the river to a high of 2,250 feet, with nearly 1,785 feet of cumulative elevation change that highlights the rugged topography of the Whiskey Dick Unit. Visitors during the spring are rewarded with stunning wildflower displays across the landscape, though summer travel requires extra preparation for high winds, intense heat, and limited cell service. To protect migrating elk herds, the L.T. Murray Wildlife Area, Whiskey Dick Unit is closed to all motorized vehicles from February 1st through May 1st each year. After reaching the Columbia River at the end of the main route, adventurers can choose to extend their journey by connecting to additional trails heading either north or south along the shoreline.
