Umtanum Creek Canyon — Friday, Mar. 23, 2012

Central Washington > Yakima

Day 3 of 3, see previous posts on March 21st and 22nd. Little did I know what was ahead of us! I never thought the hike to the top of the ridge overlooking the Yakima river was going to be so strenuous!!! After you cross over the suspension bridge at the trailhead you take a left at the fork in the trail which takes you UP to the top of the ridge. In just a few miles you gain over 2100 feet in elevation. If you are not in good shape or have a weak heart I would not suggest taking this trail. The last portion of the trail is the steepest! We set up camp on the top of the knoll and enjoyed the fantastic 360 degree view. We took our walkie talkies with us so we listened to the local weather. It was going to be 26 degrees in Ellensburg so we knew at 3500 feet it was going to be a very cold night, around 20 degrees. I am now a very steadfast believer in emergency blankets. Without them it would have been a very uncomfortable night. We wrapped one around ourselves inside our sleeping backs and then put one over the top of both our sleeping bags. At times we were almost too warm. Always pack emergency blankets with you! They saved us. The views are amazing and the stars at night unbelievable. You can also see the city lights of Ellensburg and Yakima. In the morning we enjoyed a hot breakfast, packed up and headed down the trail. All in all, a great start to the hiking season.