Umtanum Creek Canyon — Friday, Oct. 25, 2013

Central Washington > Yakima

This was our third hike in Eastern Washington this year and one well worth the drive. The canyon is broad for all the way we took it (between 2.5 and 3.0 miles up the trail) and with multiple trails that all lead to the same destination. We were able to find the Homestead remains (stairs to a 'root cellar'?, a concrete foundation from 1933?) about a 1/2 mile from the bridge over the Yakima. This is a good spot to cross Umtanum Creek, as it is braided and the trails on the east side of the canyon extend about 1.5 miles before the next creek crossing. The details of the hike note a 700 foot elevation gain, but I did not note or feel like we gained much if any elevation. This is a great trail for new hikers and the creek did not require any special skills to cross if you looked for good spots. We did see lots of evidence of beaver dams and residence. Not many people out on Friday but we all enjoyed the sun and mild temperatures (in upper 60's). It was a nice break from the fog and low clouds in Seattle. Aspen were out in their full glory and we did see a doe about 1.5 miles up the trail. Did not see any beaver or other animals. Trail should continue to be good for another few weeks. Ended the day with another great Mexican meal in Ellensburg. There are some really good and authentic Mexican restaurants in town and very reasonable.