Wildlife/DNR area that has generally passed under the radar for mountain bikes. There is some single track, a lot of double track, and a LOT more to explore. Pine forest, prairie, and shrub-steppe eco
Wildlife/DNR area that has generally passed under the radar for mountain bikes. There is some single track, a lot of double track, and a LOT more to explore. Pine forest, prairie, and shrub-steppe ecosystems collide in this area, and climbing onto the plateaus offers incredible vistas from Ellensburg, through the Stuarts, and even some of the Alpine lakes region peaks.
For those who love wild places, fantastic views, and great adventures it is recommended to get up on top of the rim or at least out onto the upper portions of the Tamarak Ridge road. The rock gardens are somewhat formidable but the landscape is breathtaking.
How to Find It
Travel approximately 0.75 mile South from Exit 101 on Thorp Highway to Thorp Cemetery Road and take a right onto it. Thorp Cemetery Road parallels I-90 like a siding road and heads NW. Follow it for approximately 3 miles, and go left onto Watt Canyon Road. Travel past the end of the pavement, across the canal, and up to the elk fence. Use the gate to the right (North), as the one by the barn and facility is locked for administrative use only. Please close the gate behind you.
Typical Conditions
Prime time is May and June, although cooler summer days aren't bad as long as you can deal with some dust. I would definitely avoid the area during modern firearm hunting seasons (October). The soil makes riding shortly after a rain a near impossible hike-a-bike. Fortunately, the area dries quickly.
Hidden "rock IEDs" are common along the trails out there... basically chunks of basalt sitting quietly in the grass and sagebrush waiting for you to get your speed up so they can send you flying.
Local Points of Interest
Closest gas station in Thorp, also has a fruit stand with interesting snacks/produce & coffee.
Closest bike shop is Recycle in Ellensburg. http://www.recycleshop.us/
Iron Horse Brewery in Eburg.... get your Irish Death on!
For excellent Eburg eats on the cheap: Fidelina's Taqueria
Advocacy & Stewardship
Turn by Turn
There's so many options in here, especially if you're willing to ride the roads (which tend to be pretty rocky and rough, fat tires recommended). Many folks climb through north Winegar canyon and loop out from there more or less clockwise. Lots of race-route-loops visible on Strava that more or less stay down low.
HOWEVER, for those who love wild places, fantastic views, and great adventures I HIGHLY recommend getting up on top of the rim or at least out onto the upper portions of the Tamarak Ridge road. The rock gardens are somewhat formidable but the landscape is breathtaking.
