Yakima Skyline Trail — Sunday, May. 26, 2002

Central Washington > Yakima

We decided to try Harvey Manning's suggested 19 mile loop (from 100 Hikes in Washington), which combines the high terrain and views of Umtanum Ridge with extended hiking along Jacob Durr Road and down the Roza Creek valley. From the North Trailhead, we headed south down the Durr Road for several miles, then east along the Roza Creek road. We camped among the cottonwoods along Roza Creek. There's lots of water there, with beaver ponds further downstream. The second day, we hiked up Umtanum Ridge (fairly steep climb, but not too bad) and back to the trailhead. The whole trail has fabulous wildflowers; the varied habitats make the loop hike even more interesting. It's an excellent birding trip as well, with many colorful birds, especially in the Roza Creek area. We saw other hikers only once, but rattlers twice. Great spring hike.