Buffalo Eddy: Artwork that’s stood the test of millennia

Artwork that’s stood the test of millennia

Buffalo Eddy’s petroglyphs are the handiwork of Nez Perce people from hundreds or even thousands of years ago

By KERRI SANDAINE

FOR DAYTRIPPING

ASOTIN — Buffalo Eddy is a popular destination along Snake River Road for visitors who want to view unique petroglyphs containing hundreds of distinct images that possibly date back as far as 4,500 years ago.

On the Washington side of the Snake River, the petroglyphs are within walking distance of the road, along with signs that provide historical information about the Nez Perce people and rock art. Tour boats regularly idle on the Idaho side of the river so passengers can take a closer look at ancient images there.

Tribal artists from thousands of years ago chipped and scraped the rocks, creating designs of people

> See ARTWORK, Page 7

> Buffalo Eddy

LOCATION: 16 miles south of Asotin along Snake River Road.

WHAT YOU’LL DO: Walk along a short trail to view ancient Nez Perce petroglyphs, and you can also enjoy a picnic lunch and the scenic drive to the sacred site.

DIFFICULTY: Difficulty is a 1 or 2 out of 5, depending on walking ability. Parking is available and a small hiking trail with interpretive signs is accessible.

DON’T FORGET: Swimming at Buffalo Eddy is dangerous. Multiple drownings have occurred in the strong current. The petroglyphs are protected by federal law. Digging or damaging the resources is a felony, punishable by a fine of up to $100,000 or imprisonment.

NEARBY SITES OF INTEREST: If you continue driving along Snake River Road to Heller Bar, you will be able to see where the Grande Ronde and Snake rivers meet. TOP: Petroglyphs etched into the rocks shine in the morning sunlight at Buffalo Eddy, located 18 miles south of Asotin. The site contains hundreds of distinct drawings left behind by the Nez Perce people, with some of the etchings being 4,500 years old. ABOVE: Jerry and Cindy Reisinger, right, of Pomeroy, along with Anna Medici, a friend visiting from Maine, read an informational plaque at Buffalo Eddy. LEFT: Cindy Reisinger and Medici take photos of the petroglyphs etched into the rocks at Buffalo Eddy along the Snake River, 18 miles south of Asotin. These drawings left behind by the Nez Perce people give evidence of their strong connection with the animals and land.

Asotin W A H S H

Anatone

129 I D A H O Snake River

Buffalo Eddy Petroglyphs

Artwork

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and animals, along with abstract shapes. The site has been known as a sacred space for the Nez Perce people for countless years, and the carvings likely had spiritual significance and were also used to tell stories related to hunting.

Additions to the rock art stopped about 300 years ago, according to historians. The arrival of white settlers and horses may have been the cause. The Snake River corridor is now populated with houses, ranches and vacation homes.

The drive from Asotin to Buffalo Eddy is beautiful, especially in the spring when the hills are green. Wildlife sightings along the way are common, and the sparkling river leading to Hells Canyon is breathtaking.

Buffalo Eddy is one of the deepest parts of the river, and its swirling water acts as a whirlpool that can suck down swimmers. Signs have been posted to warn visitors about the dangers of taking a plunge. However, anglers often cast their lines from the banks, and tents along the beach are a frequent sight on hot summer days.

The road gets busy in the summer as people flock to beaches, boat ramps and other areas of interest. In recent years, access to beaches has been reduced as more and more private landowners install fences and “no trespassing” signs.

Buffalo Eddy is one of the few spots with room for parking and public access. The other side of the river is privately owned.

No fees or reservations are needed for recreational activities at Buffalo Eddy. The site is managed by the National Park Service, and more information about the petroglyphs can be found at the Nez Perce National Historical Park visitor center at Spalding. n

Mountains are seen in the distance across farmland near Bennington Lake in Walla Walla.

Elaine Williams/For Daytripping

Cycling

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Creek from the Mill Creek project office to Rooks Park, where there is a playground.

Starting in the same place, an experienced rider could head east along Mill Creek and then circle Bennington Lake before going back, a loop that would take about one hour.

Those who seek an even greater challenge could go to downtown Walla Walla or explore the foothills of the Blue Mountains on nearby roads. Allegro Cyclery at 200 E. Main St. in downtown Walla Walla has bicycle rentals and information at the store and on its website at allegrocyclery.com. n Reisinger and Medici explore the rocks at Buffalo Eddy along the Snake River, 18 miles south of Asotin.

Austin Johnson/For Daytripping

> Mill Creek Trails, Bennington Lake and Rooks Park, Walla Walla

LOCATION: From the Lewiston-Clarkston Valley, travel west along U.S. Highway 12 to Walla Walla. The drive takes about two hours. Exit south on Airport Way and drive south. Head east on Reservoir Road and take the second left to reach the Mill Creek project office, one of many access points to the system.

WHAT YOU’LL DO: Bicycling, hiking, fishing, wildlife spotting and boating in vessels powered by electric motors, wind or human strength.

DIFFICULTY: 1 to 3 out of 5 depending on what you do.

DON’T FORGET: A map of the system. They are available at a chamber of commerce kiosk in downtown Walla Walla at First Avenue and Main Street. (It can be confusing the first time you visit.) Bicycle helmet, sunscreen, fishing license, water, snacks and life jackets for anyone who is boating.

NEARBY SITES OF INTEREST: Downtown Walla Walla is packed with independent restaurants, ice cream places and coffee houses, as well as stores that sell clothing, books, furniture, souvenirs and second-hand merchandise. Consider Colville Street Patisserie. It has espresso, pastries, gelato and wine by the glass.

WINE: Walla Walla is known for its wines for good reason. It is home to well-known brands that include Dunham Cellars and Canoe Ridge. Check out Vital Wines at 17 N. Second Ave. Its wines are exceptional, especially for the price. The profits go to health care and other resources for vineyard and winery employees.