Cle Elum Canyon
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| Put-in: |
Cle Elum |
| Take-out: |
Ellensburg |
| Difficulty: |
Class II
|
| Length: |
13 miles |
Yakima Canyon
|
| Put-in: |
Ringer Access |
| Take-out: |
Roza Access |
| Difficulty: |
Class I
|
| Length: |
18 miles |
|
The Yakima River rises in the high peaks of the Snoqualmie and drops down through the foothills of the Cascades, though the fertile wine country and finally into the Columbia at the tri-cities. There are a few different options for floats on this scenic river, and these are all great stretches for beginning kayaks to practice rolling, or anyone looking for a mellow day on the water. The surrounding scenery and wildlife will offer plenty to soak in, with Ponderosa pine forests, towering basalt spires and spawning salmon on lively gravel bars.
While adrenalin junkies may be put off by the Class I and II rapids of this lazy river, the hot dry weather, easy access and interesting surroundings make floating the Yakima River a perfect way to spend a summer afternoon.
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