Fort Simcoe Historical State Park

Nestled in the Cascade Mountain foothills on the Yakama Indian Nation Reservation, discover Fort Simcoe State Park a 200 acre, day-use heritage park.  Located about 27 miles west of the city of Toppenish, this historic park describes mid-19th century army life while providing insights into local Native American Indian culture. Originally the site was an Indian campground and crossroads for many trails. Fort Simcoe was established in 1856 with the primary intent of keeping peace between the European settlers and Indians. 

Today a day park is sprawled amongst an old oak grove, painting a picture of mid-19th century army life with original buildings including the Commander’s house, three captain’s houses and a blockhouse.  Explore the interpretive center and learn about the clash of cultures that took place when settlers and Indians vied for the same territory.  Bring lunch and enjoy a picnic, a little bird-watching and later peruse the half-mile hiking trail.  For more information, visit Fort Simcoe State Park.

Area Birding

Outstanding site for Lewis’s Woodpecker. Also find other attractions: Western Tanagers, California Quail, White-breasted Nuthatches, Spotted Towhees, Common Ravens. Listen and look for Chipping Sparrows, Ash-throated Flycatchers, possible Great Horned Owls.  American Kestrels and Prairie Falcons hunt over sage.

From middle of east side of parking lot, walk loop trail through oaks and sage. Check Mool Mool springs for Lazuli Buntings. Bonus: Fort Simcoe’s historic buildings and exhibits. Also Yakama Nation Museum: From Hwy 97 at milepost 62.8, turn south onto Buster Rd, then right on Spiel-yi Loop, and park in lot. From Hwy 97 at milepost 62, turn west onto Fort Rd. Drive 19.2 miles. Turn left onto Fort Rd Extension. Drive 0.2 mile. At T, turn left onto Signal Peak Rd. Drive 2.0 miles. Turn right onto Fort Simcoe Rd. Drive 5.0 miles. Turn left into parking lot. Order the Sun & Sage Loop Map of the Great Washington State Birding Trail.