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The Chief Joseph Wildlife Area is 9,735 acres in size and
is located in Asotin County, 30 miles south of the town of Asotin. Elevations
range from 825 feet to 4,913 feet at Mt. Wilson, the highest point in the vicinity.
Dry grasslands surround riparian woodlands on most of the area. Bluebunch wheatgrass
is the dominant bunchgrass. Riparian areas are found along the streams, draws,
outwash areas at the mouths of draws, and around the numerous springs and seeps.
Most of the species on the area are found either in riparian habitat or very
close to it.
Since department acquisition bighorn sheep have been successfully introduced; the sparse,
nomadic elk herd has increased to approximately 150 resident animals; wild turkeys have been
introduced successfully; and pheasant have been reintroduced. Large populations of valley quail
exist. Blue and ruffed grouse, as well as Hungarian and chukar partridge use the area. Peregrine
falcons have been reared (hacked) on the Wildlife Area with some success, however no known
nest sites have been located. A wide variety of nongame wildlife is found on the area, and more
than 100 species of birds have been counted by the manager. Mule deer also use the area. There
are 11.5 miles of streams supporting anadromous fish on, or bordering, these lands. Endangered
salmon and depressed fish stocks will be factors in management of these lands in the future.
Access Sites
Ebson #1 - Asotin County
From traffic light in Asotin, go south 26 miles on Snake River Road to area on the left.
Ebson #2 - Asotin County
From traffic light in Asotin, go south 26.1 miles on Snake River Road to area on the left.
Ebson #3 - Asotin County
From traffic light in Asotin, go south 26.7 miles on Snake River Road to area on left by the
county bridge (washed away).
Ebson #4 - Asotin County
From traffic light in Asotin, go south 26.7 miles on Snake River Road the county bridge. Go
straight ahead 2 mile to Public Fishing sign.
Schumaker Grade - Asotin County
From Anatone, go south 1.6 miles, then east 1 mile on Montgomery Ridge Road, then south
on Schumaker Grade Road 7.1 miles to Parking Area on the left.
