Umtanum Creek Canyon — Tuesday, Jul. 12, 2016

Central Washington > Yakima

This trail is stated as "easy" but I would definitely give it at least an intermediate level. I'm not sure if it was from the heat, but I definitely feel that this is more than a 500 elevation gain. I was feeling it. I ran into another lady who said she thought it was 2000? Who knows. Beautiful hike! Left the trailhead at 12, and after the train tracks it was a constant climb. Like other reports have noted- some parts of the trail are fairly overgrown, but it always clears up. Did see any snakes, but was definitely aware and listening for their rattle. Lots of bugs, noticed cicadas & grasshoppers the most. I chose to wear long pants & sturdy boots after seeing that ticks were an issue on this trail. I didn't use my hiking poles on the way up, but certainly my preferred them on the way down. Many steep parts with loose dirt & gravel. Was slipping even with my poles. I don't think I actually made it to the end... Stopped on the top of a hill where a man made old fence was posted up. Arrived there about an hour & 10 mins after I started hiking. Ate my lunch & starred at the beautiful view, then headed back down around 1:40. Definitely recommence this hike, just make sure you are hydrated & ready for some heavy heat.