We will float 20 miles down the Yakima river thru a wonderful canyon from Ringer Loop (5 miles S of Ellensburg) to Roza Dam recreation area (5 miles north of Yakima).  Lunch stop and hike at Umtanum creek.  The area’s ecology is called shrub-steppe (semi desert) and we will see spring flowers including Lupine and Balsam root, and possibly mountain goats and rattlesnakes. The canyon is up to 1000 feet deep, surrounded by spectacular basalt cliffs.

Paddlers should have good bracing and maneuvering skills, and be able to paddle backward in control.  Experience in moving water like deception pass is a plus. This is stretch is similar difficulty to eagle watching trips on Skagit River: Current about 3-5 mph with occasional 1-2 ft waves.

Warning: All rivers are powerful and hazards are different from typical sea kayaking.  All participants accept the risk and are responsible for themselves.