CHS 2 Hike - Yakima Skyline Ridge

This is a wonderful spring hike to view wildlife, wildflowers and the Yakima River.  We will be hiking in the L.T. Murray State Wildlife Recreational Area.  This area is home to mule deer, bighorn sheep, elk, coyotes, raptors and other birds including bluebirds and quail.  Therefore, I suggest you bring a set of binoculars for viewing.  Our route starts off of Buffalo Road, elevation 1260 feet, and heads northeast and then north along the ridge line until we reach the 3000 foot elevation mark. We will have a nice short break at our turnaround point where we should have exceptional views, weather permitting, of the Yakima River and surrounding topography. 

Please remember to bring the Ten Essentials.  Green Trails Maps does not offer a map of this area.  Therefore, you will need to purchase US Topographic Maps "Pomona" and "Wymer".  These maps can be purchased at the Mountaineers bookstore.

Plan on stopping at the Yellow Church Cafe in Ellensburg after our hike for a bite to eat before heading back over Snoqualmie Pass.  Expect to be back at the Preston Park and Ride by 5:30PM.

We will meet at the Preston Park and Ride (Exit 22 off of I-90) at 7:15AM.  We will consolidate into carpools and be on our way by 7:30AM.  

Drivers must have a Discover Pass to park at trailhead.  Riders should expect to compensate drivers for an approximate travel distance of 230 round trip miles.