The Yakima River rises in the Cascade Range at an elevation of 2,449 feet (746 m) at Keechelus Dam on Keechelus Lake near Snoqualmie Pass, northwest of Cle Elum. The river flows through that town, skirts Ellensburg, passes the city of Yakima, and continues southeast to Richland, where it flows into the Columbia River at an elevation of 340 feet (100 m).

It is used for fishing, rafting and kayaking, especially around the Ellensburg area during the summer months. It's a real favorite of many rafters as it winds through Cle Elum, Ellensburg, and Yakima. Depending on the section of river rafted, the trip is between class 1 and class 2. Our weather makes this river a great way to spend a Saturday afternoon. Between Ellensburg and Yakima the river enters a beautiful canyon with steep basalt cliffs, sagebrush, and the occasional tall pine.

Popular Fishing Spots

There are several fishing holes in the Ellensburg area.  Most are stocked with rainbow trout and may also have yellow perch and sunfish in the waters.

• Mattoon Lake:  Located on 25 acres and open year round. It offers good bank fishing for those who do not have boats. Internal combustian engines are prohibited.  Disabled accessibility - Level3, Small dock. It is located about a mile on Umptanum Road, off of Canyon Road.  A sign is posted on the left side at the road entrance that takes you back to the lake.
• Fiorito Lake: Located on 54 acres and is open year round.  Good access facilities for shore anglers and car-topper boats, but internal combustion engines are prohibited.  Disabled accessiblity level 1 with trails to lake and shelters.  The lake is about threee miles southeast of Ellensburg.  Follow Canyon Road and take Thrall Road.  Turn left onto No. 6 Rd. Follow until you reach the lake on left.  3-day camping is allowed with no fee.
• Naneum Pond: Is a local favorite for juveniles 15 & under.  It is located on 4.4 acres and is open year round.  From N. Main St. turn right onto University Way.  Continue after the road turns into Vantage Hwy.  Turn left on Naneum Road, pond is on right. 

There's also a marathon for a weekend's experience is the Yakima River Canyon. The Experience can't be beaten!  There's a dinner the night before where you can meet new people and make new friends. You will ride the bus the next moring to the destination where the course begins.  And to top it off there's an afternoon baked potato and salad bar awards dinner that's a blast, especially after making all your newfound friends throughout the weekend. 

If you are not into running a race, there are others who are right there with you that take the opportunity to just enjoy the scenery either alone or in a group.