Cleman Mountain - Waterworks Canyon Loop

Cleman Mountain rises abruptly from the Naches River valley east of the Cascades, delivering ridge walking and canyon scenery more typical of the American Southwest than western Washington. The Waterworks Canyon Loop climbs through a narrow basalt canyon lined with weathered cliffs, buttresses, and pinnacles before reaching an open ridgeline with views of Mount Adams, Mount Rainier, and the Yakima Valley. Bighorn sheep inhabit the upper slopes and hikers regularly spot them on the east ridge.

The loop gains 2,000 feet in just 6 miles, with the steepest sections on loose, gravelly terrain. Counter-clockwise travel (ascending the canyon, descending the ridge) is strongly recommended because the east ridge descent involves steep, loose footing that catches people off guard. Spring brings exceptional wildflower displays across the south-facing slopes, and the dry east-side climate means this trail melts out weeks before Cascade trails at similar elevation. Late spring and early fall are prime windows; summer heat makes midday travel punishing.

Ticks are present in the valley from spring through early summer, and mosquitoes concentrate near the trailhead parking area in June. The trail follows a volunteer-maintained boot path that is well-defined but unsigned. Carry more water than expected because there are no reliable sources on the route.