Cowiche Canyon

An easy, 6-mile round trip hike with 100 ft of elevation gain. Part of the Rails-to-Trails system, the trail descends gently, following an old 1880's railroad route that was converted and is maintained by the Cowiche Canyon Conservancy. Enjoy a pristine walk through a natural canyon with excellent potential for flower and bird watching.

Getting there

Follow I-90 E and take exit 110 for I-82 E/US-97 S toward Yakima. After approximately 30 miles, take the exit for Hwy 12 W towards Naches. After a few miles turn left onto Ackley Rd, then quickly after turn left onto W Powerhouse Rd. Another immediate turn; this time on the right onto Naches Heights Rd, will eventually turn into Zimmerman Rd. Take a left onto Weikel Rd. and follow it to the trailhead. 

notes

  • A fairly new addition to the trail is a side trail heading out of the canyon and leading to a winery with picnic grounds and tasting room. It's 1.8 miles round trip from the Cowiche Canyon Trail.
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Length: 6.0 mi
  • Elevation Gain: 100 ft
  • 1,500 ft
  • Land Manager: Cowiche Canyon Conservancy
  • Parking Permit Required: None
  • Recommended Party Size: 12
  • Maximum Party Size: 12
  • Maximum Route/Place Capacity: 12
Map
  • WA DNR Yakima
  • USGS Naches
  • USGS Wiley City
  • USGS Yakima West
  • USGS Selah
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