Trail Overview
Greek Creek is known as one of the hardest trails in the Manastash dirt bike trail system south of Cle Elum. It is rated as Extreme by the Forest Service. The south entrance starts off with a steep, rocky, and root-filled loose descent right away that is visible from the entrance to the trail, so riders can see what type of terrain they are entering right away. It descends steeply for the first mile, with several root drop-offs, narrow exposed terrain, and tight turns through the trees. There is a rocky stream crossing with a narrow and exposed exit from the stream. Then it starts climbing back up through a series of tight and loose switchbacks that are silty and steep. One of the switchbacks has a tree closely lining the trail that makes it narrow and difficult to make the turn. Some of the switchbacks have small boulders or rock faces on the inside corners that make them more technical. There is exposed and narrow side-hilling required between each switchback as well. After the switchbacks, it gets more gradual and continues as a narrow trail, side-hilling through the trees, until it intersects with North Ridge at a scenic viewpoint overlooking Cle Elum Lake.
Difficulty
This is an advanced trail due to a series of tight and technical switchbacks that are steep and loose with embedded rock in the corners. The loose, steep terrain will be very difficult for a lot of riders, and they will require expert pivot skills. Riders should also expect narrow terrain and significant side-hill exposure. Riders will go up the switchbacks in the south-to-north direction. The trail may be slightly easier from north to south if you prefer going down switchbacks.
