Day 3: Ellensburg to Prosser, Wash.

We started an early morning from Ellensburg following what soon became Canyon Road south out of town. The road followed the Yakima River for about 35 miles south of Ellensburg and has likely become the road to beat for other sections of our tour. Weather was sunny and cool, winds were negligible, and although there were some minor climbs, the net elevation gain was negative. At one point, my dad commented that “this is what a 1% grade on pavement feels like.” And indeed, compared with the soft gravel of our first two days, it felt like gliding down a water slide. We sped through the first 35 miles and found ourselves just outside of Yakima for a breakfast stop by 9:30.

After we entered Yakima, the temperatures began to rise, and we lost the occasional shade from the canyon valleys. We also saw a touring hypothesis tested twice in quick succession. First, we turned onto a road that appeared to be a good thru route, bypassing the main highway. A sign read no outlet, but, as we’ve both often encountered, signs for cars don’t always apply to bikes. We eventually found ourselves, however, on a private drive winding through houses and then, eventually, at a locked gate. We decided to pass our bags through and lift our bikes over the gate. Thankfully the goat on the other side was not aggressive. Just down the road from there, a “road closed 1.5 miles” sign had my dad recalling that there was a mountain sliding near Yakima last summer. We eventually found the road closed sign but decided geological statistics were in our favor, and ended up enjoyed the quiet roads ahead.

We stopped for an excellent lunch in Zillah at La Placita, where I enjoyed my first burrito of the trip (inquiring minds should note that the burrito from yesterday was my dad’s). Everyone in the restaurant eventually heard of our trip and wished us well. The post-lunch heat was difficult with bellies full, and we pressed on the last 30 miles to Prosser in 95+ degree heat. Prosser remains relatively unchanged from our last trip here three years ago, though quieter on a Monday. We enjoyed a beer, and a lot of horse-themed kitsch, at Horse Heaven Hills Brewing. Which notably won best brewery in Prosser in 2011. I dare not search whether there was another brewery here at that time, but I know there is not one now.

Tomorrow we will have another long day toward the tri-cities, then eventually toward Waitsburg, Dayton, or Walla Walla for the night.

By the numbers:
Miles traveled: 91
Road signs ignored: 3
Total burrito tally of the trip: 2
Max Temperature: 97?

 Views along the canyon Road.

Much easier climbing than the last 2 days.

Horse Heaven Hills Brewing.

The other side of the gate.