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

Joe K

Jun 28, 2025

Open

Tamarack Ridge Road - This was NOT an easy road. The rock patches are annoying and huge stretches of it. Also - THE CLIFF EDGE??? We stopped and had to slowly reverse because we knew if we kept going, we were going to tip over the cliff and see Jesus face to face. The tire tracks had a massive slope due to all the big rocks embedded in the dirt tipping you towards the cliff right out your drivers side door. So far, the least enjoyable road in this network.

Gavin Norwood

May 25, 2025

Open

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

Rob Blomquist

May 20, 2025

Open

Very rocky road. Suitable for 4x4 and better.