Umtanum Creek Canyon

Explore the bottom of the steep-walled canyon, following the creek along flower-lined trail through a long-abandoned homestead. The nearly flat trail offers plenty of bootpaths and social trails to do a little extra rambling, making it an excellent choice for hikers of any skill level. More adventurous hikers can climb the ridges in pursuit of desert blooms.

From the parking area, cross the Yakima River on a long swinging suspension bridge. Once on the other side, carefully cross the railroad tracks, finding a signboard marking the beginning of the trails at 0.2 miles. Ignore the trails heading up Umtanum Ridge here, instead heading out straight ahead toward the canyon through desert scrub. Follow what remains of the old homestead road, soon passing apple and walnut trees and old fence posts. Watch the canyon walls for big horn sheep that frequent the canyon as you progress.

There's a lot more to Umtanum Creek, and you can learn all about it in Washington Wildflower Hikes: 50 Destinations. You'll find a trail map, route descriptions, history, and more for this and many other hikes throughout the State. Help support hikingwithmybrother.com and the work we do by picking up a copy!