Explore Deep Time at Coyote Wall with Geologist Lloyd DeKay
White Salmon Wildflower Festival
Where: Meet by 7:45 at the Mt Adams Visitor Info Ctr at Mile Post 65, Highway 14, Lot 1 Heritage Plaza Parking, White Salmon (Scroll down for directions & map)
When: Meet by 7:45 Sharp | May 9 and May 16 | 2026
Cost: Free
Sign Up: Scroll down to sign up – each date will fill at 15 participants.
Have you ever looked at the dramatic cliffs and unusual rock formations of the Columbia River Gorge and wondered how they came to be?
This May, during the White Salmon Wildflower Festival, you’re invited to step into “deep time” on a guided geology walk with professional geologist Lloyd DeKay. This is more than a hike—it’s a journey through millions of years of volcanic eruptions, massive floods, and the relentless shaping power of water and time.
A Walk Through Ancient Landscapes
Set against the stunning backdrop of Coyote Wall, this experience explores the interconnected terrain of the Labyrinth and Syncline—some of the most geologically fascinating features in the Gorge.
Participants will:
- Walk the scenic roadway and venture into the Labyrinth
- Observe unique rock formations and folded layers up close
- Learn how lava flows, Ice Age floods, and tectonic forces shaped the land
- Pause for a bring-your-own sack lunch beside peaceful Rowland Creek
Expect a moderately active outing of 2+ hours and 2+ miles round trip, with some light rock scrambling along the way.
Meet Your Guide: Lloyd DeKay
Lloyd DeKay brings a lifetime of geological expertise and local passion to this experience.
- BA in Earth Sciences – California State University, Northridge
- MS in Geological Oceanography – University of Rhode Island
- 27-year career in global exploration with Gulf/Chevron
Since moving to the Gorge in 2007, Lloyd has become a cornerstone of the local naturalist and geology community. He serves as President of the Columbia River Gorge Chapter of the Ice Age Floods Institute and has led extensive efforts to expand educational resources, including interactive maps, field guides, and regional programming.
Locally, he’s also a co-founder of community initiatives in White Salmon and Bingen and a frequent field trip leader for Oregon State University’s Gorge Naturalist Program.
See the Gorge Differently
By the end of this walk, you won’t just see the Gorge—you’ll understand it. Layers of basalt, carved valleys, and scattered boulders will tell a story of fire, flood, and time on a scale that reshapes your perspective.
Whether you’re a curious local or a visiting wildflower enthusiast, this is a rare opportunity to connect more deeply with the landscape that defines our region.
Come ready to hike, learn, and never look at the Gorge the same way again.
Meet Up Location
SIGN UP
By checking the acknowledgement box on the sign-up form, I acknowledge that I am voluntarily registering for and participating in the Coyote Wall geology walk led by Lloyd DeKay as part of the White Salmon Wildflower Festival. I further certify that I am at least 18 years of age and that I have the authority to agree to this waiver on behalf of all individuals included in my registration (collectively, “my party”), including minors for whom I am the parent or legal guardian.
I understand that this activity involves inherent and unavoidable risks under Washington law, including but not limited to uneven and rocky terrain, loose footing, steep slopes, exposure to natural elements, falling rocks, wildlife encounters, and the risk of serious injury or death. I knowingly and voluntarily assume all such risks on behalf of myself and my party.
On behalf of myself and my party, I hereby release, waive, and hold harmless the White Salmon Wildflower Festival, its organizers, sponsors, volunteers, landowners, and agents, as well as Lloyd DeKay, from any and all claims, liabilities, damages, or causes of action arising out of or related to participation in this activity, including those resulting from ordinary negligence, to the fullest extent permitted under Washington State law.
I agree that all members of my party will follow instructions, use reasonable care, and participate at their own risk. I understand that I am responsible for ensuring that all members of my party are properly prepared, equipped, and physically able to participate.
By checking the “I agree” box in the following sign up form, I confirm that I have read, understand, and agree to this waiver on behalf of myself and all members of my party.
