I started out through the canyon. I took the winery trail and came back to the main trail. Then I took the Teton Andosite trail to the South Rim trail to the Historic Jeep trail and back down to make a big loop. The trail is slightly overgrown on the lesser used portions. I encountered about 15 hikers/trailrunners and a couple of bicyclists. Overall, it was great for peace and quiet.

Arrived to the trailhead to a very sunny, and windy 75 degrees. I hiked the Jeep Trail from end to end and back. 4.4 miles round trip. I saw some Kildeer and Quail along the way. No Rattlesnakes. Not yet, that is. As usual bring a hat, sunglasses, and water as there is no shade. Good views of the entire Yakima Valley and the Cascades were to be had.

This was a beautiful hike, though hot and unshaded for the dogs. We also had 3 encounters with rattlesnakes on the trail - so be cautious with kids and pets.

Phlox, phlox, and more phlox! Wildflowers are at their peak. There are a variety of trails to choose from at the preserve. Most people strolled along the wide trail that follows the river. We went up to the ridge along the Lone Peak trail and made a nice five mile loop with the Radio Flyer trail. We only saw three other hikers and a few bicyclists. The sage smelled lovely. We enjoyed the views of the farm houses and orchards on the neighboring hillside. Adams was also visible through the haze. The only downside for me was the lack of balsam root. There are a few scattered plants on the river trail, but not the flood of them you can find on other trails. It was a small price to pay to have the trail to ourselves while we delighted in all the other spring wildflower varieties.

Lots of parking available at the west side parking lot. There’s an unattended porta potty, so you need your own TP. No pass is needed.

Parked at the West Cowiche Canyon Trailhead. A nice sunny 62 degrees. Wildflowers are at their peak right now. I hiked the trail all the way to the Winery Trail. Hiked halfway up the Winery Trail. I saw a hawk of some sort. Lots of birds along Cowiche Creek. No rattlesnakes. Not yet that is.