The Yakima Canyon
The Essentials
Where: S Canyon Road at the Roza Recreational Area
When: Sunday, May 17th, 2025 @ 9:45AM for a 10:00AM rollout
Pace: Steady (12 - 14 mph)
Route 1: The Official Route, 35.1 miles, 1,364' of elevation gain
Ride Leader: Paul Heydron, + 1 425 344 1543, paulh.wa@comcast.net
If you are already registered for the Yakima Region tour and want to do this ride, please register for this also! You also need to register for the event!
The Description
This ride is an annual event that benefits Crime Stoppers of Yakima County. You need to do two things. First, register for the this ride here, with BIKES Club. Second, you need to register and pay for the ride here. Registration is open.
Now, about the ride ...
The ride starts at the south end at the Roza Recreation area and heads to the north end of the canyon at the Yakima Canyon Interpretive Center near Thrall Road. It's a pleasant 17.5 miles out, slightly up hill and usually against the wind, which of course makes the way back slightly downhill and usually with the wind.
Please read the description on the registration we site. They state there will be "light snacks and water along the route". There's not a lot in the canyon, so plan to bring enough to eat and drink and consider the light snacks and water as bonus. I would assume nothing except at the Thrall road turn around.
Nuts and Bolts
HAVE A FLASHING TAIL LIGHT! A headlight is good too.
The last time I was at Roza it was a pit toilet. I can't imagine it being closed when they hold the ride, but I can imagine it being pretty ... adventurous. Plan accordingly.
Remember to bring essential bike tools - especially flat repair equipment, sunscreen, and plenty to drink.
The mean daily high temperature is around 75F in mid-May. It can be substantially hotter or colder though. May is usually pretty dry, but not completely. Again, plan accordingly. The canyon can have it's own weather. Be prepared for wind.
