Cowiche Canyon Trail

The primary access points are at the east and west ends of the canyon, just northwest of Yakima. The main trailhead is often considered the one near the city of Yakima, offering direct access to the flat, packed-gravel section. Parking is available at these trailheads.

Yes, dogs are welcome on the trail. Please ensure your dog is kept on a leash and that you clean up after them to help preserve the natural environment for all visitors.

The trail offers beauty year-round. Spring is spectacular for wildflower displays, while autumn brings vibrant red, orange, and yellow foliage. The packed-gravel section is also suitable for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in winter, and the summer provides lush riparian views.

No, there are no permits required or entrance fees to access the trails within the Cowiche Canyon Conservancy. It is free and open to the public.

The main canyon trail is primarily a flat, packed-gravel path built on an old railroad bed, making it an easy and accessible walk. However, the connecting trails in the Cowiche Canyon Uplands offer more varied and challenging terrain, with rocky single tracks, uneven surfaces, and steep sections.

The canyon is a haven for wildlife, with over 125 bird species, including great blue herons. You might also spot salmon and beavers. The scenery includes lush riparian habitats, towering basalt and andesite cliffs, and in spring, spectacular wildflower displays. The uplands offer expansive views of the Yakima Valley and distant mountains.

Yes, the main 2.9-mile section through the canyon, which is flat and packed-gravel, is considered easy and very suitable for beginners and families with children. It's a great introductory experience for hiking.

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the William O. Douglas Trail, and other segments of the Cowiche Canyon Trail itself, indicating a network of interconnected paths within the preserve.

A unique feature is the 'Winery Trail,' which connects the main canyon trail to Wilridge Winery. This offers hikers the option for a side trip to a tasting room, combining outdoor activity with a local culinary experience.

The main canyon trail is a 'Rails-to-Trails' conversion, built on the bed of the Burlington Northern Railroad, which operated from 1913 to 1984. The canyon walls themselves are geologically significant, formed by 17.5-million-year-old Columbia River flood basalts and one-million-year-old andesite from the Goat Rocks volcano.

For the main canyon trail, comfortable walking shoes are sufficient. If exploring the uplands, sturdy hiking boots are recommended due to rocky and uneven terrain. Always bring water, especially on warmer days, and consider sun protection. Binoculars can enhance wildlife viewing.