Saddle Mountains is a long 30-mile ridge that towers above the Columbia River in Central Washington and is one of the best places to find petrified wood. Millions of years ago, volcanic eruptions buried forests in lava and ash. Over time, the wood transformed into stone, preserving the bark, tree rings, and even branches. Most pieces are made of silica and shine in red, orange, yellow, and brown.
The ridge is part of a large bend in the Earth’s crust known as an anticline. This bend lifts and exposes ancient rock layers, making petrified wood easier to find.
Collectors can uncover agatized wood, opalized wood, and even fossilized tree limbs — beautiful reminders of these ancient forests. With patience and simple hand tools, rockhounds of all levels can enjoy this rugged landscape.
Since a part of Saddle Mountains is BLM land, petrified wood collecting is allowed. However, be aware of private property on the east side of the ridge. Always respect No Trespassing signs and stay on official roads and trails.
Rockhounding at Saddle Mountains
Saddle Mountains is famous for its abundant petrified wood, making it one of the top rockhounding destinations in Washington.
Most pieces can be spotted on the surface, but walking along the hillsides often reveals promising places where larger specimens may be buried. When you find a likely piece, dig carefully around it—sometimes just a few inches down uncovers a bigger, more complete specimen. It’s also worth checking near old dig sites, as leftover treasures are often nearby.
The petrified wood comes in many colors: reds, oranges, yellows, browns, and sometimes shades of white, gray, or even blue.
Collectors often find limb casts, agatized wood, and opalized wood, many of which show clear tree rings or branch patterns. Other rocks, such as agate, jasper, and quartz, also occur throughout the area.
This petrified wood is valued not only for its natural beauty but also because it polishes beautifully, making it perfect for display or lapidary projects.
Saddle Mountains | Facts
Material: Agatized and opalized petrified wood, limb cast, agate, jasper, quartz
Tools:Rock pick, shovel, chisels
Land type: High desert hills
Best time to visit: Spring through fall
Open: Year-round
Land manager: Bureau of Land Manager (BLM)
Fees: None
Location: 23 miles southeast of Vantage • Washington • USA
Road access: High-clearance 4WD
Elevation: ~2,000 ft (610 m)
Things to Do Near Saddle Mountains: Other Outdoor Activities
Saddle Mountain may be best known for its petrified wood, but the area also offers plenty of outdoor activities for those who want more than collecting.
Even though there are no officially maintained trails, visitors often hike along access roads and ridgelines to enjoy the rugged scenery and sweeping views of the Columbia River. Horseback riding is permitted on established routes, offering another way to explore the open terrain.
The gravel roads also make for exciting off-highway vehicle (OHV) adventures. Riders can follow ridgelines, sandy washes, and old race routes, though caution is needed due to steep drop-offs and rough terrain. A proper OHV tag is required.
Ginkgo Petrified Forest State Park
Just across the river, this park protects one of the world’s most diverse petrified forests. More than 50 types of trees have been identified here, including ginkgo, walnut, and elm. Collecting is not allowed, but the interpretive center displays polished specimens, and trails showcase logs still embedded in the ground.
This site is a must-visit for anyone curious about geology, Earth’s history, or ancient forests, offering a unique blend of science, natural wonder, and stunning scenic views of the Columbia River.
Ginkgo Petrified Forest State Park: A Must-Visit Fossil Forest
Columbia River Rockhounding Destinations
Gravel bars and canyon edges along the Columbia River have long been productive for collectors. Rockhounds report finding agate, jasper, chalcedony, and quartz crystals in river gravels, along with fossilized wood fragments and occasional opalized pieces.
Always check land ownership and stick to BLM land or permitted areas.
Mineral Soap Lake
Located in the Grand Coulee Valley, about 6 miles from Ephrata, Soap Lake is known for its unusually high mineral content.
While not a hot spring, its mineral-rich waters and mud have been used for natural healing for generations, making it a unique stop in Central Washington.
Soap Lake – The Unique Mineral Lake for Healing and Relaxation
Places to Stay at Saddle Mountain Rockhounding Sites
Free dispersed camping is allowed on BLM-managed land (with a 14-day stay limit). There are no facilities—no water, toilets, or trash bins—so come prepared and pack out everything you bring.
If you prefer more comfort, the town of Ellensburg, located about 50 miles away, offers hotels, restaurants, and a full range of services.
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Saddle Mountains Directions
Here 2 sites are listed. You also can use guide books or use your own search but make sure you are on public land.
From WA-243 in Mattawa,
- Take Rd R SW and travel 2 miles east to Rd R SW
- Turn left onto RD R SW and follow it for 3 miles to the Saddle Mountain BLM sign and ORV Parking Area - keep left on the forks twice
- Drive on RD R SW for 1.9 miles to a fork and keep left.
Site 1. Follow 0.2 miles on RD R SW, turn left and continue 0.9 miles to the digging area.
GPS: N 46°48.492' W 119°53.364' | 46.8082, -119.8894
Site 2. Continue 0.8 miles on RD R SW to the site and search hills nearby.
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