Joy Run: Umtanum Creek Canyon

Justin is at the height of his Western States 100 training and when we saw that Yakima was 82F last Sunday we jumped in the car and B-lined it to the other side of the Cascades. We reached the east side just in time for a few hours of sunny miles in the canyon. The day ended with a thunder storm in the late afternoon, but it was better than the alternative in Seattle. Either way I think the heat is going to be a total shocker to Justin come race day.

 We parked at Umtanum Creek Recreation Area, which is also where the Yakima Skyline Rim 50k starts. This particular race is known for its grueling climbs so it seemed perfect to pair elevation gain with exposed heat. I started out on the canyon trail while Justin went directly up to the ridge. The canyon trail was extremely overgrown to the point I had to wade through all the brush. The day previous I ran 20 miles at a moderate effort so this was a recovery day for me which is why I stuck mostly to the lowland. There were myriad trails from Untanum Creek, offering plenty of variety for anyone seeking adventure. The canyon trail is only 7 miles round trip, but it ends at a waterfall. It was a nice change to be in a dry desert-like landscape. In a month the wildflowers should be in full bloom so I hope to make it back!

Umtanum Creek Canyon: State Route 821, mile post 17
Distance: Variable, 7 miles round trip in the canyon
Elevation Gain: Variable