Umtanum Canyon

The drier east side provided a weather-window for visiting Umtanum Canyon. Located just out of Ellensburg, this hike offers a unique desert experience. There are no crowds and plenty of opportunities for camping and exploring. Beginning on the uphill side of the drainage, the trail is well-defined for about a mile and a half. It then becomes somewhat chaotic immediately after passing a photogenic waterfall. Thorny brush, rocky areas, and multiple stream crossings and re-crossings punctuate the trip from here. However, so do quiet ponderosa pine groves, relaxing meadows, and colorful aspens and maples. We observed a buck with a full-on rack on one side of the canyon. Industrius beavers have provided several mini-detours along the way. My friend pointed out a hiding frog. I located a vigilant orange-clad hunter.

This time of year seems an ideal time to visit. Just be sure to wear some bright orange. Carhartts (or the like) and leather gloves make for an easier time dealing with the desert brush.