Tucannon River Canyon

The Tucannon River Trail follows its namesake river through a deep, forested canyon in the Wenaha-Tucannon Wilderness. The low elevation and gentle grades make this one of the first trails in the Blue Mountains to open each spring, weeks before the high ridges are clear. The first mile or so of trail is well-maintained with a wide tread and cleared brush. Beyond that, expect some blowdown and overgrowth, particularly early in the season through fire-disturbed forest.

Sheep Falls is worth the half-mile detour upstream before the bridge. The main trail continues along the river to the Bear Creek Trail junction at four miles, which is the natural turnaround for day hikers. Between miles two and four you will pass pleasant creekside campsites, making this a good introduction to overnight backpacking for beginners. The canyon stays shady and cool even in summer heat.

A Northwest Forest Pass is required, and you will need to fill out a free wilderness permit at the trailhead self-issue station. The parking area holds about a dozen vehicles and has a privy. Ticks are a real concern here, particularly in spring. Check yourself and your dogs thoroughly after hiking.