Tieton and the Yakima Greenway
So this is where the weather went wrong last year ... Instead of a new route, we'll try this again and hope for better weather. Like last year there will be a choice of two rides.
If you are already registered for the Yakima Region tour and want to do this ride, please resister for this also!
The Essentials - Plan A
Where: Gilbert Park off of Lincoln Avenue, Yakima, WA
When: Saturday, May 17th, 2025 @ 10:30AM for a 10:45AM rollout
Pace: Steady (12 - 14 mph)
Route: Not Much in Tieton, 35.8 miles, 1,582' of elevation gain.
Ride Leader: Paul Heydron, + 1 425 344 1543, mailto:paulhh.wa@gmail.com
The Essentials - Plan B
Where: Chesterley Park of River Road, Yakima, WA
When: Saturday, May 17th, 2025 @ 10:30AM for a 10:45AM rollout
Pace: Steady (12 - 14 mph)
Route: Mostly like A Kinder, Gentler Trip to Naches, 32 miles, 819' of elevation gain
Ride Leader: Dan Scott, + 1 425 501 6198
Disclaimer #1: Dan may choose a different route and start location. If you choose this ride, be sure to check for updates!
Why two plans?
Firstly, some people may not want the hills between miles 4.5 and 8.5 on the ride to Tieton. I like the ride to Tieton, but it's challenging. Secondly, and perhaps most importantly, plan B is a backup for everyone in case of epic wind (and in last year's case, epic lightening.) The choice of which ride is yours.
Plan A Description
The plan is for a steady pace ride from the west side of Yakima out through Cowiche to Tieton and then returning along the Naches River via the Yakima Greenway Trail. We'll stop in Tieton for lunch, thus the later start. There's not a lot in Tieton, but the Nomad Kitchen, Panaderia Santos, and Don Mateo have good reputations. Of course you can bring your own lunch and there is also a convenience store. Lunch may be in Tieton City Park. The ride out along Summitview Road isn't the most peaceful. It's a busy road but has a wide shoulder. The route may be altered to take a few of the back roads, but expect a similar distance and elevation gain. We'll take the urban trail on the way back and return to the start through Yakima.
Plan B Description
The plan is for a steady pace ride from northwest Yakima to Naches and back using surface streets and the urban trail. The plan is for a coffee/lunch break in Naches ... and seeing an elk or goat if you're really, really lucky.
Nuts and Bolts
HAVE A FLASHING TAIL LIGHT! A headlight is good too.
No restroom at the start.
Remember to bring the usual stuff - snacks, a lunch if you want to pack it, 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. Plan accordingly.