Connecting with nature and local communities is core to the Mountains to Sound Greenway Trust’s mission of conserving and enhancing the Mountains to Sound Greenway National Heritage Area (Greenway NHA) – the 1.5-million-acre landscape spanning from Seattle to Ellensburg along Interstate-90.
After a three-year hiatus due to the pandemic, the Greenway Trust is once again offering Explore the Greenway Trips, which are unique, behind-the-scenes opportunities that highlight the rich history, ecology, and recreational opportunities within the Greenway NHA.
Members of the public are invited to register for these events and enjoy a fun day of discovery and community building with other local residents who care about conserving this region’s incredible natural beauty and celebrating its heritage.
“Explore the Greenway Trips offer unique and memorable outdoor experiences in the Greenway NHA,” says Jon Hoekstra, Greenway Trust Executive Director. “They are also an opportunity for people to go a little deeper and learn more about the landscape and how we can all play a role in caring for it.”
The Greenway Trust is hosting two Explore the Greenway events during summer 2022: a Yakima River Float on June 18, and a Snoqualmie Valley Trail bike ride on August 20. Those who are interested can learn more and sign up here: https://mtsgreenway.org/get-involved/events/trips/. All participants will also receive a special Explore the Greenway t-shirt.
Yakima River Float – Saturday, June 18, 2022 (10 a.m. – late afternoon)
Those who join the Yakima River Float will have the opportunity to take in new perspectives while rafting the Upper Canyon between Cle Elum and Thorp. Attendees will float through the basalt canyons, rolling forests, and green farmlands along the Yakima River with expert guides and enjoy the expertise of special guest speakers during a locally-sourced lunch.
This event will cover 18 river miles in approximately 3.5 hours. This event is limited to 80 participants; spaces will be available until filled. There is an $85 participation fee to cover event costs, and some scholarships are available.
Snoqualmie Valley Trail Bike Ride – Saturday, August 20, 2022 (9 a.m. – Noon)
The Snoqualmie Valley Trail Bike Ride is a FREE event thanks to generous support from King County. Tune-up your bike and enjoy a leisurely ride along the beautiful Snoqualmie Valley Trail, which parallels the river and occupies the historic path of a spur line of the Chicago, Milwaukee, St. Paul, and Pacific Railroad.
Riders will have the opportunity to visit two Snoqualmie Valley farms, beginning and ending the day at Remlinger Farms and pit-stopping at Oxbow Farm & Conservation Center as the turn-around point. In total, the ride will cover 11.5 miles roundtrip on a nearly flat trail. Remlinger Farms offers an on-site restaurant, brewery, and other activities that attendees are welcome to enjoy following the ride.
Learn more and sign up: https://mtsgreenway.org/get-involved/events/trips/
