Trails with great overlooking views of Yakima!
How long is the trail?
Depends. Approximately 3 miles roundtrip. However, this is an out-and-back trail, so you can make it however long you want. Approximately 3 miles roundtrip.
How difficult is it?
Highlights: multiple loop trail options; steep at some places; be aware of rattlesnakes during the summer months; the trail is often closed during winter and early spring months; ample parking; good place for bicyclists
About the trails: Parking at the Cowiche Canyon Scenic Trailhead, located at the end of Scenic Drive, offers access to 3 different trail options. trail is about 3 miles out-and-back (turning around at 1.5 miles, when the trail meets a connecting trail to the Cowiche Canyon Trail), but there are multiple loop trail options of varying lengths (follow the signs!). The substrate is a mixture of gravel and dirt, with surrounding sagebrush vegetation. There are steep ascends and descends depending on the trail you choose.
Special consideration: watch out for rattlesnakes during the summer months and pack some water. The trails are often closed during the winter and early spring months due to mud.
Getting there: The trailhead is located at the end of Scenic Drive. There is ample parking at the trailhead and we've rarely encountered a full parking lot. Here's a Google map of the location:
Our experience: This is perhaps one of our favorite trails in Yakima. As you start this trail, you will find that you have multiple options. All of the trails are loop trails except the one that connects to the Cowiche Canyon East trail (follow the signs.) You get to see a panoramic view of Yakima from up top.
Our dogs love this trail too. They love to run off-leash and appreciate the short sage bushes. If you are coming here during the sunny summer months, be aware of rattlesnakes.
For more information, go to the Cowiche Canyon Conservancy website.
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