Sagebrush Trail

The Badger Skyline Trail offers a rewarding experience with diverse terrain and expansive views, making it a popular choice for a quick escape. You'll hike on a 3.5-foot-wide path of crushed rock and gravel, winding through sagebrush and dryland grasses. The route provides panoramic vistas of the Tri-Cities, the Columbia and Yakima Rivers, and even distant mountains like Rattlesnake Mountain on clear days. Expect a consistent, though not overly steep, incline as you make your way up Badger Mountain, with the first half-mile covering much of the 751 feet (229 metres) of elevation gain.

Planning your visit to the Badger Skyline Trail is straightforward, as no passes or permits are required. The trail is accessible year-round, but spring is particularly vibrant with wildflowers like yellow balsamroot. While the 3.3-mile (5.2 km) hike typically takes around 1 hour and 41 minutes, it's wise to carry water, especially in warmer months, and be aware that rattlesnakes have been sighted. The trailhead offers convenient parking, making it easy to start your adventure.

This easy route is part of the larger Badger Mountain trail network, offering various Badger Skyline Trail hiking options for different fitness levels. Along the way, you'll find informative signs detailing the geological impact of the Missoula Floods, which shaped the unique landscape of the region. Near the summit, communication towers serve as a clear landmark, and the varied microclimates you pass through add to the trail's appeal.