Ahtanum State Forest

About 10 miles east of the Goat Rocks Wilderness and 25 miles west of Yakima, this forest is a varied area of working forest that transitions from high ridges of the eastern Cascades to desert plains. It is criss-crossed by roads and several hiking trails and is used by nature lovers, hikers, hunters, motorcycleists, and snowmobilers. Enjoy early spring wildflowers, vivid fall colors, golden Western Larch trees in late October, and excellent views of Mount Adams.

Getting There

Whites Ridge Trailhead

From Yakima, drive south on I-82 for 2 miles to Union Gap. Turn west on Ahtanum Road tooward Tampico. Turn right on North Fork Road and drive 9.5 miles to the A2000 Road (Middle Fork Road). Drive 0.25 mile and turn left into Whites Ridge Trailhead.

On the Trail

Whites Ridge

10.9 miles round trip, 1,900 feet of elevation gain, high point ~5,000 ft

This is the main trail in the forest . It is a ridge hike with great views of the area and Mount Adams.  It is open for hiking or backpacking only from April 1 to November 30. During the Winter season it is limited to snowmobiling only. Longer backpacking trips can be accommodated by linking various trails, roads, and off-trail routes.

  • Suitable Activities: Backpacking, Day Hiking
  • Seasons: April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November
  • Weather: View weather forecast
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Length: 10.9 mi
  • Elevation Gain: 1,900 ft
  • 5,000 ft
Map
  • Green Dot Maps (wdfw.wa.gov)
Activities
Trip Reports
Titles

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  • Whites Ridge
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