Acquisition of the original property in 1962 was sought to protect big game winter range and elk calving grounds; later purchases served to protect threatened salmonid species and their habitat. Asotin Creek is considered a critical watershed for steelhead, bull trout and spring Chinook salmon, and the State of Washington has designated the drainage a wild steelhead refuge. The watershed is considered at high risk for habitat degradation due to fragmentation and stream modifications. Major habitat types include grasslands and dry coniferous forests. Deer, elk, turkey, quail, chukar, grouse, and many other species afford a variety of hunting and wildlife viewing opportunities.

How to Get Here Click Here for Printable Map and Driving Directions

Access Site #1 Driving Directions North Fork Parking Area: From the town of Asotin, head west on Asotin Creek Road. At the first intersection in the road, stay to the right and continue up the creek for approximately 10 miles to the entrance of the wildlife area. At the fork in the road, stay to the right and travel another 2 miles up the road. Parking area is on the left at the confluence of Lick Creek and North Fork of Asotin Creek. Parking/Restroom Information There is a parking lot available at the confluence of Lick Creek and North Fork of Asotin Creek. There are no restrooms available. Other Information The wildife area is open to the public year-round. However, motorized vehicle traffic is restricted by a gate on the County road from Dec 1st to March 31st of each year to minimize disturbance to wildlife. Gate opens April 1st. Access Site #2 Driving Directions Warner Gulch Buildings: From the town of Asotin, head west on Asotin Creek Road. At the first intersection in the road, stay to the right and continue up the creek for approximately 10 miles to the entrance of the wildlife area. At the fork in the road, stay left on South Fork Road. Follow South Fork Road, which eventually leaves the creek bottom at a hayshed parking lot, and continues west up a steep grade. Follow the grade for approximately 5 miles until you come to a parking area on the left near the Warner Gulch buildings. Parking/Restroom Information There is a parking area at the South Fork hayshed and near the buildings. Restroom facilities are not available. Other Information The wildife area is open to the public year-round. However, motorized vehicle traffic is restricted by a gate on the County road from Dec 1st to March 31st of each year to minimize disturbance to wildlife. Gate opens April 1st.

Unique Features

North Fork of Asotin Creek Trail, bighorn sheep and other wildlife are visible, especially in the spring

Other Information

Elk are usually highly visible on Smoothing Iron Ridge, espcially in early morning and evening hours.