Artwork that’s stood the test of millennia

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

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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.

Austin Johnson/For Daytripping