Palouse to Cascades Trail - Thorp Trailhead, Palouse to Cascades Trail - South Cle Elum Trailhead — Tuesday, Sep. 21, 2021

The Palouse to Cascades Trail (previously the Iron Horse/John Wayne Pioneer Trail) is a 285-mile rail trail spanning the state of Washington, from the western slopes of the Cascade Mountains to the Idaho border. The 18.5-mile section from Cle Elum to Thorp makes for a nice day bike ride or a pleasant one way or overnight hike/camp when the weather on the west side of the Cascades is inclement. The trailhead starts at the at the South Cle Elum railway depot and ends at the old railway siding at Thorp.  Parking areas with facilities are located adjacent to the Cle Elum depot and at the Thorp trailhead (Discover Pass needed). The tread is packed gravel all along the trail. The first several miles pass near some large homesteads on the outskirts of town and are mostly shaded.  At about mile 3.5 the trail approached the Yakima River, and two picnic areas (Turkey Gulch/Yakima River Overlook) provide a bit of rest with nice river views.  Elevation loss is minimal as the trail follows the upper Yakima River. At about mile 7.5 the Ponderosa Campground makes a nice midway point for a through hike or turnaround for a day hike. The trail along the Horseshoe Canyon is the most scenic and enjoyable part of the hike. A bit farther along two short tunnels (#47/#46) are a fun highlight. The remainder of the hike is a straight walk to the Thorp trailhead. After your hike, a short mile drive to the Thorp Fruit and Antique Mall off I-90 for a double dip ice cream cone or cold beverage is a great way to end your trip. 

More Information on this Trip Report

• https://palousetocascadestrail.org