Kittitas County (WA) Survey on River Use and Access
Posted: 05/17/2018
By: Evan Stafford
Kittitas County has released a survey to gather input and data on how people are using the
various portions of the Yakima and Cle Elum Rivers. It also seeks information from participants
as to what improvements would be appropriate. The survey is part of an ongoing effort to develop
a strategy for improving access along both river corridors. The County began the planning process
several months ago by hiring a consultant, Beckwith Consulting, and by appointing a
Citizen’s Advisory Committee to direct and manage the effort. The survey can be found here:
The survey includes known whitewater runs on the lower Cle Elum River from Cle Elum Dam (Old
Winston Bridge Site) to Yakima River (Bull Frog Road Bridge) and Yakima River from Teanaway
confluence (Teanaway Junction - Hwy & 97) to Thorp (Thorp Bridge). The survey does not
include the runs on the Cle Elum or Cooper on US Forest Service land, but includes a space to
list "other sites." Given increased use of the Cooper and Cle Elum by whitewater
paddlers we have encouraged the Forest Service to formalize existing social trails. We also
believe the County should recognize these incredible whitewater resources as part of the overall
river resources in the County.
The river access improvement planning effort is led by the County’s Public Lands Advisory
Committee. It is a county-wide effort focusing on the entire mainstem of the Yakima River
and the portion of the Cle Elum River downstream from Cle Elum Dam. Funding for the plan is
being provided by the County’s lodging tax program. The County hopes to complete the
plan by June 30.