Upper Yakima River
Location: Cle Elum, WA
Region: Central WA
Best Season: Summer
Difficulty: Intermediate
Primary Bike Surface: Gravel Rail-trail
Passes/Permits: WA Discover Pass
Water Length: 22 mi
Bike Length: 25 mi
Suggested Bike Route Map: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/38131645
Recommended Trip Type: One-Stop Adventure (what’s this?)
Parking: South Cle Elum Train Depot, South Thorp Take-out
Description:
This is a beautiful stretch of river and the bike ride goes through two tunnels (bring lights). This section of the Yakima river flows well during the summer months because the river is a steady supply of irrigation for the Yakima Basin. The full route described here runs from the S. Cle Elum bridge to the South Thorp Take-out just upstream from the Thorp low-head diversion dam. You must exit the river upstream of the dam on river left. Danger: People have died going over this dam. This trip on the upper Yakima has a few small rapids and log jams can change from year to year. Before setting out on the river it's a good idea to check with some of the local fishing guides first as to the current river conditions and hazards. The trip can also be shortened at various other river access sites. Note the River Miles are from S. Cle Elum bridge. E. Cle Elum Boat Ramp (5.5mi), Thorp Hwy Bridge (18mi). Additionally the Palouse to Cascades rail trail parallels much of the route in the canyon section so it is possible to exit the river and hop back on the trail with your bike.
PRO Tip: Call a local fishing guide service prior to ask about river conditions. Bring bike light for tunnels. The Palouse to Cascade trail can get soft and thick gravel near Cle Elum. A MTB may be a good choice, although a cross bike will work. The prevailing winds will likely cause the ride into a headwind. Look at the wind forecast and be prepared. For those planning a through trip expedition, this is a good river link.
Water Flow: https://www.usbr.gov/pn/hydromet/yakima/yaktea.html
References: https://parks.state.wa.us/521/Palouse-to-Cascades
https://www.americanwhitewater.org/content/River/view/river-detail/2276/main
Hazards: River current, Log-jams, rapids, strainers
Disclaimer: While we strive to present accurate information, the earth is not static. Conditions change, information may become outdated, and some things you read on the internet just may not be true. If you run across any information that needs updated please Contact Us and let us know. You alone are responsible for your safety. Treat this information as a preliminary guide only. You must evaluate conditions and your experience level to determine your own safety. The authors of this website are not held responsible for your safety.
