Umtanum Ridge Crest — Saturday, Mar. 8, 2025

The trail starts off moderately steep and rocky, then transitions to moderately steep with sections of slick mud, and finishes with a very steep and a little snowy half mile scramble to the top of the ridge.

We made it all the way up using only poles, but it took persistence and patience.

This early in the year the new green grass was just pushing through and the flowers are weeks away. We did see a coyote, three magpies, several ravens and a golden eagle.

What we had in abundance was sunshine and long distance views. The Enchantments are visible the second half of the way up and at the top we could see three volcanos (Tahoma, Adams,Hood) plus the Goat Rock area peaks.

It would be relatively easy to replace the fall line “trail” near the top with some switchbacks, which would make the hike safer and more enjoyable. Let’s hope WTA can do this sometime soon.