The Yakima River is a tributary of the Columbia River in south central and eastern Washington State, named for the native Yakama people. The length of the river from headwaters to mouth is 214 miles (344 km), with an average drop of 9.85 feet per mile (1.866 m/km).
The Yakima River is a favorite lazy float of many rafters. It threads through Cle Elum, Ellensburg, and Yakima. Depending on the section of river rafted, the trip is between class 1 and class 2. Hot, dry weather and bright sun make this river a great way to spend a Saturday afternoon. The occasional class 2 rapid or wave train adds some excitement. Between Ellensburg and Yakima the river enters a beautiful canyon with steep basalt cliffs, sagebrush, and the occasional tall pine.
Fun Things To Do:
• Fly-Fishing
• River Rafting
• Hiking
• Bicycling
• Sight Seeing
• Horseback Riding
• Boating
• Golfing
• Swimming
• Only 40 miles from Concerts at the Gorge Amphitheatre
• Rafting
• Kayaking
Fish Type:
• Pikeminnow, Northern
• Salmon, Chinook
• Salmon, Coho
• Steelhead, Summer-Run
• Suckerfish, General
• Trout, Cutthroat West Slope
• Trout, Rainbow
• Whitefish, Mountain
Special Note:
• Handicap Boat Launch: Yes
• Camping Available: No
• Restrooms Available: No
• Boat Launch Available: Yes
• Launch Type: Dirt
• Dates Open: Year-round
• Motorized Boats Allowed: No
Driving Directions:
Exit 63 (Mabton) on I-82 (eastbound), Right on Midvale Rd, Left on Alexander Road to 4-way stop, Right 5 miles on SR 241, Right into access site just before crossing Yakima River.
Click Here for a Map and Direction to Gannon.
Related posts:
- Fishing in Yakima River, Benton City – Benton County Fishing
- Fishing in Satsop River, Double Bridges – Grays Harbor County Fishing
- Fishing in Cowlitz River, Blue Creek – Lewis County Fishing
- Fishing in Naselle River, Bennos Easement – Pacific County Fishing
- Fishing in Elochoman River, Beaver Creek – Wahkiakum County Fishing