Snow Mountain Trails
Two designated backcountry loop trails are available to hikers at Snow Mountain Ranch. Both loop trails are good for Fall or Winter hiking. Be prepared for cold, windy conditions and open, scenic vistas.
Note: Mountain Biking is prohibited on much of Snow Mountain Ranch (uplands). Snow Mountain Ranch was purchased using federal and state grant funds for the purpose of preserving and protecting natural shrub-steppe habitat, an increasingly rare and sensitive ecosystem. One of the grant conditions requires CCC to allow only light, low-impact recreation uses, i.e., no motorized or mechanized uses. Any type of wheeled vehicle can cause accelerated erosion on thin shrub-steppe soils, especially when the ground is moist. Per the grant conditions, no wheeled vehicles are allowed south of the distinct fence/gate as you cross in the canyon -- a lttle south of the open fields. We appreciate your patience, consideration and caution.
The Cowiche Mountain Loop Trail starts at the parking lot and climbs 1,140 feet to the summit of Cowiche Mountain (2,970'). The round trip distance is 6.1 miles. On a clear day, the top of Oregon's Mount Hood can be seen from the summit of Cowiche Mountain, along with sweeping views of the Yakima Valley.
The Bench Loop Trail provides a shorter route through canyons and upland shrub steppe, with views of the South Fork Cowiche Creek area. It has a round trip distance of 3.7 miles with 370 feet of elevation gain.
Attention: Do not leave any valuables in your parked car. CCC is not responsible for any lost or stolen items.
