Hike Umtanum Creek Canyon

Park your vehicle at the Umtanum Creek Canyon Recreation Area. Be aware that from mid-May to mid-September there is a $5.00 per vehicle, per day parking fee since the land is owned by Bureau of Land Management.

Grab your gear and head for the swinging suspension bridge that will lead you over the Yakima River and to the beginning of the Umtanum Creek Canyon Trail.

Follow the trail under the railroad tracks and when the trail splits, stick to the right. This will lead you on a flat trail running parallel with the chattering Umtanum Creek. After about 0.75 miles, the road will split to the just after a small boulder field, but continue to the right and cross the creek.

Continue on this path through a variety of open fields as the hills of the canyon will tower above you. For those more interested in a challenge, pick a hill and climb to the top for some grand views of the entire area. As always, do so cautiously and safely.

Turn around whenever you feel and return the way which you came.

In addition, a variety of wildlife call the canyon home. On your trip, be sure to keep an eye out for deer, elk, big horn sheep and a variety of bird species.

In the fall and spring, the canyon becomes alive with color. Young aspens glow yellow and an abundance of wildflowers will be in full bloom.

If you are ending your day here, the Umtanum Creek Canyon is a brilliant place to stargaze in the dark of night. Enjoy a glittered sky and a mind full of curiosity!