Catherine Creek - Natural Arch — Friday, Nov. 21, 2025

The Catherine Creek Trails recently opened after the July Burdoin fire. There were only 4 other cars at the TH when we arrived a little before noon. We walked to the Natural Arch Area and then returned to the TH. The footbridge at the creek is rotted and limbs fell on it, but that was not a problem as there was no water in the creek at the crossing. The coral and other remnants of the ranch burned down and the rail fence has been rebuilt around the Natural Arch Area. There is a new interpretive sign which explains that the natural arch is closed to the public as it is sacred to the Yakima Nation. There was a scent of burned ground and trees, but there is also signs of new growth. It will be interesting to see how the fire will affect the spring wildflowers!