Washington's Channeled Scablands Guide - by John Soennichsen (Paperback)

About the Book

Explore Washington's canyons of Ice Age wonders -- great trails, stunning scenery, and amazing history

Book Synopsis

Explore Washington's canyons of Ice Age wonders -- great trails, stunning scenery, and amazing history

* Comprehensive guide to a fascinating region rich with history and recreational access to camping, hiking, fishing, and more
* The Ice Age Floods National Geologic Trail was designated by the National Park Service in 2009. Once completed, the Trail will connect interpretive facilities, signage, and other tourism activities
* Features regional maps and photos

Often overlooked by those cruising on the highway to Spokane or the Tri-Cities area, more than 2,000 square miles of terrain in eastern Washington are home to a striking collection of sharp-edged coulees slicing through a crust of basalt. In this stunning landscape, deep lakes fill the depths of dramatic gorges flanked by steep walls of towering rock columns, labyrinthine channels, and wide tracts of scabby rock that give the region its name -- geologically, no other region in the world contains features like those found in the Channeled Scablands.

Where-to guidebook and travel narrative come together in the Washington's Channeled Scablands Guide to offer a comprehensive and intimately knowledgeable tour of this one-of-a-kind region. Local writer and historian John Soennichsen is your guide to fascinating lore; snapshots of the unique towns connected by this singular landscape; descriptions of the unique geology; advice on how to explore whether by auto, horseback, canoe, bike, or on foot; and essential info like where to fuel up and stop for dinner.

Take the family to scenic camping and fishing in Coffeepot Lake, and read out loud the legend of Old West outlaw Harry Tracey as you cruise along on a "Back Roads Auto Tour." Lace up your boots for a cross-country hike in the Juniper Dunes Wilderness Area or up Badger Mountain Trail. Explore the unearthly crater-like formations in the Telford-Crab Creek Tract, or set up with your camera for a stunning sunrise over Palouse Falls. Whether you're a boater looking for new waterways to explore, a naturalist interested in unique ecosystems, or just a curious traveler -- if you're seeking adventure and intrigue just a little off the beaten path, you'll find the keys to a whole new world of exploration with Washington's Channeled Scablands Guide.

Review Quotes

"John Soennichsen's book is a must for those wanting to explore this fascinating but not well-known area." "A book well worth adding to your Washington library."-- "The Acorn Fall 2012"

a fun way to learn about most of the geology of Eastern Washington....-- "The Guardian"

Check out....Washington's Channeled Scablands Guide for more hikes, more sights and more adventures in coulee country.-- "Washington Trails Association magazine"

Get an in-depth look at scabland recreation opportunities in John Soennichsen's new book "Washington's Channeled Scablands Guide."-- "Tacoma News Tribune"

Pick up a copy of Cheney-author John Soennichsen's latest book, "Washington's Channeled Scabland Guide" and you'll understand as well as be amazed at aspects of area topography and history that many area residents have spent their entire lives, or most of their lives, observing on a daily basis.--John McCallum "2012 Outdoor Guide"

Soennichsen...has become a local sage of sorts, looking into the region's geologic past and translating what happened for the lay audience.--Nicholas Deshais "Pacific Northwest Inlander"

This guidebook has accomplished what other Ice Age Floods publications are lacking in that the author comprehensively describes his travel experiences and observations of Floods features, then enhances his narrative with humor. Schoolaged children, senior citizens, and those of all ages in between can read this book easily and understand it.-- "The Ice Age Floods Institute"