Washington State Route 129

On Saturday, July 9, 2011, we drove the twisty-turvy length of Washington State Route 129 in the extreme southeast corner of the evergreen state.

RCW 47.17.260
State route No. 129:

A state highway to be known as state route number 129 is established as follows:

Beginning at the Washington-Oregon boundary line in Asotin county, thence northerly by the most feasible route by way of Asotin to a junction with state route number 12 at Clarkston.

Halfway down the hill into the Grand Ronde River canyon, we cross the state line and begin SR 129. Goodbye, Oregon; hello, Washington. Watch out for falling rocks on the road! The speed limit is 50, but you'd be lucky to average 30, for all the sharp curves.


What a difference a few miles makes! SR 129 crosses the Grand Ronde River and climbs at a steady grade up the other side of the canyon, generally following Rattlesnake Creek far below. The road hugs tight to the hillside, wrapping around every ridge and gully. Motorcyclists seem to like this stretch. After a long few miles, we enter a forest, the road straightens out, and we emerge atop the hill in unending farmland. Just north of Anatone, this is the halfway point on the route.


High on a hill above Asotin, we spy the Snake River far below. Thus we begin our winding descent. Which direction are we facing? Who knows. After passing through town, we follow northward the Snake River, replete with jetskiers and boat-loungers. 'Tis a summer weekend, after all. We enter Clarkston, hang a right on Diagonal Street, and just before the Interstate Bridge, we reach our junction with US 12. Highway 129 is at an end.

For those who love to drive curvy roads, this is one for you! Quite a bit like Highway 1 in California but with fewer cars and less ocean... Your focus is necessary!