100. Yakima Peak, 6226' (S)

Yakima Peak is a short scramble, but don’t let the distance lull you into thinking this is easy. There is a serious gully leading to the summit. Even so, the time required to reach the summit is not long, and Yakima can be combined with other peaks in the area. The peak is named for the Yakima Indians.

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Driving

Drive SR 410 0.2 mile north of Chinook Pass (elevation 5430') and park on the west side of the road near the restrooms.

Route

Hike the Pacific Crest Trail heading north. Approximately 80 yards north of the restrooms, leave the trail and turn left, heading up the gully at a bearing of approximately 290 degrees. You will likely find a footpath on the left side of the gully, as well as animal trails. Upon reaching the ridge and saddle at 5800', turn left. Initially you will be heading on a bearing of 180–200 directly toward the summit of Yakima. Continue a short distance, gaining 100' of elevation. At approximately 5900', bear rightward and head below cliffy rocks at a bearing of 270. Continue westward, staying at an elevation of approximately 5900', until you reach a scree field; look for a large gully that doubles back toward the summit. Take the gully, staying mostly on the right side for better traction. Continue to the summit. Depending on snow conditions it may be easier to cross over to the left side of the gully where there is also a footpath.

Comments

A helmet is strongly recommended in the gully. Yakima can be combined with other peaks, such as Naches, Tahtlum, or Seymour.

Vital Statistics: Yakima Peak

• Skill: Moderate scramble

• Beauty: 4

• Effort: 2

• Round-trip distance: 3 miles

• Elevation gain: 800'

• Total time: 3 hours

• Best season: When Chinook Pass is open, July through September, or first snow

• Equipment: Scramble gear, helmet