The Canyon
Basalt columns rise from the Tieton river valley providing protected roosts and nest sites for ravens and golden eagles. Climbers are also drawn to the sheer rise, crawling like ants up the walls.
As I walk the trail, I’m tempted to wade through the sage to get closer to the tree along the water’s edge where the birds are flitting about. But the threat of snakes keeps on the well-worn trail. A review from a trail user: “In the first 1/2 mile, we ran into 3 rattlesnakes which all were laying in the path. We turned back. I had enough of the snakes.”


Around a bend, I come onto a broad, flat sagebrush plain accented with wildflowers. It looks like good bobcat habitat. I think it’d probably be good for mountain lions, too.

I’m thinking of turning back again when I pass trail marker #3. I started at #10. Since I’ve come this far, I might as well go all the way to the beginning marked by a rickety suspension bridge crossing the roaring, ice-cold river. I turn back.
It’s completely overcast now. The light is dull and not conducive to pictures. The birds are quiet. I’m walking more purposefully, lost in thought, lamenting the absence of snakes on this hike.

In a fraction of a second, my lizard brain recognizes the hiss and rattle of a snake as I leap left off the trail. Three feet off the right side of this path is a coiled, rattling, pissed-off western rattlesnake. If she hadn’t reprimanded me, I would have walked right by. When cautioned about snakes out here, I thought it meant watch where you step. You know, don’t step on one.
I’m used to garter snakes, gopher snakes, rat snakes – pretty much all of the other defenseless snakes that bask on paths. I photograph them, carefully step around them, and we’re all good. Why does this snake with such formidable defenses need to be so reactive? So defensive? I took my photos as my heart rate returned to normal and let her be.
Friendly snakes I’ve encountered:
For the rest of the hike back, I am hypervigilant about the ground around the trail. There are sections where the grasses are right up next to the footpath. I proceed cautiously. I spent so much time looking down I probably walked right past a mountain lion!
All’s well that ends well. Tomorrow, I will wear close-toed shoes.
If you’re interested in purchasing or licensing any of the images you see here, please email me: SNewenham at exploringnaturephotos.com, and I’ll make it happen.
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Great story and photos. Those rattlesnakes……!!!
Thank you, Steve! It’s always an adventure.
Looks like a great place! Except for … you know. Those aside what a beautiful area. Thanks for sharing your adventure.
The rich yellow on the Bullock’s Oriole is really unique!
I’m glad you are learning quickly and safely first hand about those Western Diamond back rattlesnakes! I know you’ll remember this quite well for future outings. Great pictures I must say!!
Looks like a lot more exploring will take place in that area by you now.