Columbia Hills Historical State Park rises above the Columbia River in south-central Washington, near the old Horsethief Lake area. It holds Tsagaglalal — 'She Who Watches' — one of the most revered Native American rock-art images in the Northwest, along with the Temani Pesh-wa display of relocated petroglyphs and pictographs. Washington State Parks protects Tsagaglalal behind a guided-tour-only policy, so a visit here is something to plan for and approach with respect.
Best season — April through October (Tsagaglalal tours; reserve in advance)
At a glance
The facts worth checking before you roll out
Conservative, source-minded facts for planning your visit — always worth confirming against current conditions before you travel.
State
Washington
Manager
Washington State Parks
Signature image
Tsagaglalal ('She Who Watches')
Tsagaglalal access
Reserved guided tours only
On the ground
Washington State Parks runs the Tsagaglalal ('She Who Watches') trail and tour on a reserved basis only — small groups, set tour times in the April–October season, and advance registration that opens weeks ahead. Pets are not permitted on the trail or tour, and visitors are not allowed to wander off-trail. These limits exist to protect a sacred image.
Separately, the Temani Pesh-wa display gathers relocated petroglyphs and pictographs that can be viewed self-guided during daylight hours in season. Even where access is easier, the rule is the same: look closely, photograph respectfully, and never touch or trace the rock art.
Plan ahead — tour spots are limited and fill quickly. Book through the Washington State Parks site, confirm current tour days and registration windows, and arrive ready to treat the place as the living cultural heritage it is.
Official sources
- Washington State Parks — Columbia Hills Historical State Park State parks agency
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