Robinson & Ainsley Canyons: a treat of quaking aspen & wildflowers
Details
This is a loop with wildflowers and aspen groves that winds through meadows above the canyons, past an old stone building and back into the canyons. It will be a treat to walk through the Quaking Aspen groves, as these occur only in eastern Washington and usually at much higher elevations than this location. On a clear day, there could be a view of the Stuart Range. Since there are a lot animal, horse, ORV and hiking trails, we’ll stick to the mapped route as best as we can. I’ve shared the GPS route (below) so that others can assist with navigation.
A portion of our route is on abandoned logging roads. Crossing Robinson Creek may involve walking on logs/woody debris; so, hiking poles for balance are a good idea. There’s a picture in this trip report (LINK).
Meeting date/time – Friday May 15, 10AM. Meet at TH. Ready to hike when we’re all geared up.
Trailhead – Elk Meadows Area Parking, Ellensburg (google map link - https://maps.app.goo.gl/k4gHw4Ajh6JtcdJd8)
Distance/gain - 5 miles, 900'
Pace – social to allow for flora & fauna appreciation
WTA - https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/hikes/robinson-canyon-ainsley-canyon
- No restrooms at trailhead
- All the gorgeous flowers come with a price -- be sure to check for ticks!
- Like almost all hikes east of the Cascades – we will be in rattlesnake habitat.
- We may have to sit on the ground for lunch/snack, bring something to sit on.
- Carry your 10 essentials, including rain gear
- Discover Pass is required
Route Map – https://www.gaiagps.com/datasummary/route/65185101-e5c0-471e-ae7d-a7cd0a915813/
Weather - https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lon=-120.74&lat=47.017
Optional after-hike social opportunity - Grass Roots Grill for a beverage, snack or meal. How does a milkshake of blueberry lemonade sound 😋? Just 15 minutes away. Here's the menu (LINK) and the address (1504 US-97, Cle Elum, WA 98922).