Bring good traction and gaiters if you're planning to do this hike in the snow. Even if you're not expecting snow (like me) you should bring it. The trail was covered in snow the whole way. It was easy to follow due to the existing tracks but was very slippery in steep areas, and even though the snow wasn't deep, I kept kicking it into my boots which made for cold feet.
We started up to the ridge first. It wasn't slippery until after we crossed a small stream and the trail became steeper in some sections. Once you get up past this point, make sure to turn around and look north toward Ellensburg. You can see I-90 and the hills in that direction. Couldn't see the Stuart Range yesterday, but the sun lit up the hills and it was still a beautiful sight to see.
We ended up turning around about a half mile from the top since I wanted to get back to the car before dark. Going down was much quicker than going up (about 1.5 hour up, about 1 hour down) so we had time to check out a little of the Canyon trail before heading back to the car. This trail is flat and would make a nice stroll by the creek.
Overall, a nice hike close to home that I plan to check out in dryer conditions, or at least be more prepared for wet/slippery conditions.
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