Trail Overview
Old Durr Road is a historical route between Ellensburg and Selah with lots of beautiful scenery along the way. The trail starts near Ellensburg at a campsite, where you will begin your journey with a steep incline through rough and rocky terrain. From there, the trail gets easier, and your effort is quickly rewarded with the sight of rolling hills as far as the eye can see. On clear days, Mount Rainier and Mount Adams are also visible. Sagebrush and dry grass are abundant, especially during the hotter midsummer months. Spring brings a delicate touch, with small wildflowers also dotting the path. No campfires are allowed from April 15 to October 15, and a Discover Pass or Vehicle Access Pass is required.
Difficulty
This trail is primarily unmaintained dirt and gravel with rocks and erosion in places. It begins with a fairly steep incline where 2WD or 4WD in low gear is recommended. Near the end of the trail, watch out for the deep ruts which could be an issue for lower-clearance vehicles. The ruts were not factored into the difficulty rating due to the road being wide enough to avoid them while still adhering to Leave No Trace practices.
History
Old Durr Road was originally a toll road built in the 1880s (and one of the first toll roads in the state) as an alternative route to the 28-mile wagon road through the Wenas Valley called the "Yellowstone Trail".
