Tamarack Ridge Road

Total Miles
6.9

Technical Rating

Easy

Best Time

Spring, Summer

Trail Type

Full-Width Road

Accessible By

Trail Overview

This riding area does not open until May 1st. The trail is on a mostly well-groomed forest service road, but you might come across some loose rocks and a few potholes. This 7-mile stretch connects the Manastash and Gnat Flat Trails, and there are lots of fun turns off the main trail that make for awesome camping spots. Plus, some cool single tracks are great for a more private riding experience, even though they are a bit too narrow for full-sized vehicles. Enjoy checking it out!

Photos of Tamarack Ridge Road

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Difficulty

The terrain is composed of well-compacted dirt blended with basalt gravel, with wide areas for pull-offs to allow vehicles to pass.

History

Joe Watt Canyon is named after Joe Watt, a local rancher and stockman from the Ellensburg area. He was known for his extensive land holdings and his significant contributions to the local agricultural economy. Joe Watt's name is often linked to the region's landscape, particularly the L.T. Murray Wildlife Area, where the canyon is situated.

Technical Rating

Status Reports

Great scenery, good weather, very rocky road. took some years off my truck... good trip overall

Very rocky road. Suitable for 4x4 and better.

Access Description

Take exit 101 from I-90 at Thorp (the iconic fruit stand exit) and head towards Watt Canyon at LT Murray Wildlife Area. Turn right onto Thorp Cemetery Road, then left onto Watt Canyon Road. Continue into the LT Murray Wildlife Area. There is a large parking lot, and you will need a Discovery Pass to park your tow vehicle. Alternatively, you can enter through an "elk gate" and park or dry camp. Just remember to close the gate behind you.