Washington Trails Association
- Manastash Ridge (wta.org)
The ridge is a gently rolling basalt plateau, running for 50 miles in an east-west direction between Ellensburg and Yakima, notable for cliffs and talus slopes at its perimeter, with elevation varying from 3800 to 6300 feet. The Forest Service’s Wilderness Evaluation from 2009 states, “[t]here are no major scenic values.… The key area attraction is the motorized trail system.” However, you may come to a different conclusion after visiting this amazing area! The northwest segment of Manastash Ridge covers 16.7 miles of rugged terrain from Quartz Mountain to Blowout Mountain, with Mount Clifty near the midpoint. Hiking options include an end-to-end traverse or covering a single segment, but come prepared to camp or bring adequate essentials for the mileage you will undertake.
- Manastash Ridge - Observatory Road (wta.org)
Observatory Road on Manastash Ridge is a popular year-round hike. In winter, it’s a great snowshoe option, and in summer it offers spectacular views into the central Cascade range.
- Umtanum Ridge Crest (wta.org)
Get a workout on this steep hike along the Vista Trail from Umtanum Creek to the ridge above the canyon. In spring, it is filled with wildflowers and birds, with chances of seeing rattlesnakes and bighorn sheep. In the fall, there are amazing views from Ellensburg to the Wenas to Yakima and more with fall foliage.
- Yakima County, Washington (Wikipedia)
Yakima County is a county in the U.S. state of Washington. As of the 2020 census, its population was 256,728. The county seat and largest city is Yakima. The county was formed out of Ferguson County in January 1865 and is named for the Yakama tribe of Native Americans.
