Outdoor Pursuits and Rentals

CWU Outdoor Pursuits and Rentals offers guided-excursions as well as discounted rental equipment and special event programs.  With a complete storefront and rental shop, CWU students, faculty, staff, and alumni association members are offered a wide array of equipment to use on their own as well as scheduled trips they can participate in!

Outdoor Pursuits and Rentals is a year-round rental shop and provides equipment for all seasons. In addition to offering everything you could possibly need to navigate the Yakima River, or snowshoe in the Cascades, a full supply of camping gear is also available.

Participation in the Outdoor Pursuits and Rentals program is more than just fun in the outdoors. Outdoor Pursuits and Rentals supports the individual development of participants through outdoor experiences. Outdoor Pursuits and Rentals aims to inspire participants to pursue their goals and challenge what they thought were their limitations. 

Outdoor Pursuits and Rentals is welcoming and suitable for participants of all backgrounds and skill-levels. Whether you're an expert or a first-timer, OPR has something to offer you. Come by OPR and let us try to enhance your outdoor experience!

Check back soon for our updated trip information!

Lower Umtanum 
Trail Map | Driving Directions

Manastash Ridge 
Trail Map | Driving Directions 

Manastash Lake 
Trail Map | Driving Directions 

Pete Lake 
Trail Map | Driving Directions 

Umtanum Ridge 
Trail Map | Driving Directions 

Enjoy a scenic float down the Yakima River, take in the stunning views of the canyon and valley, and watch for wildlife along the banks of the river. Be adventurous, see what the nature around the Lower Kitittas Valley has to offer. 

Action Stage - (33.5 feet - 35.5 feet.) At this stage, the river is near bank full at Ellensburg. Lowland flooding is possible in the low areas along the river. If the water level is above 33.5 feet, please consider your recreation options carefully and know that you are responsible for your own safety while on the river.  

The Yakima water level is always very closely monitored by the USGS. You are able to see what the water level for each of the stages in real-time. Click here to see the Yakima River's real-time water levels. 

What to Bring

• PFD (Personal Flotation Device) / Life Jacket & WEAR IT! 
• Water 
• Food 
• Waterproof sunblock 
• Chapstick 
• Proper footwear with snug straps that will not fall off 
• Inexpensive sunglasses 
• Swimsuit 
• And the pump. When the raft hits the cold water it can lose pressure over the duration of the float. During a break in your float, keep the raft out of direct sunlight and give it a couple pumps before heading back out! 

Caution:

Rafting is a potentially hazardous activity. Always raft with a group and seek training prior to floating the river on your own. Moving water is a powerful element and awareness of potential hazards may allow you to have a more safe and enjoyable experience. OPR offers a Swiftwater Rescue course annually each Spring for those interested in getting more training. 

On the Yakima River, OPR equipment is prohibited floating the stretch between the Upper Bridge at KOA campground to the Lower Bridge at Irene Rinehart Park (People's Pond), and from the Lower Bridge (People's Pond) down to South Ringer Loop launch. AVOID THESE AREAS!!! These areas are potentially hazardous and are off limits for OPR equipment. The Ringer Loop Road is closed in the middle because it was washed out by the Yakima River a few years ago. Please avoid putting your water vessel in the river at North Ringer Loop. North Ringer Loop is the little grassy park with the picnic table that is near the Yakima River RV Park. This section of river is within the prohibited stretch referenced above. For the Ringer Loop put-in, you should drive to the second road named Ringer Loop Road and drive to the WA state managed parking area with boat launch to put your water vessel in the river. At this site, there is a Bureau of Land Management sign labeling this area South Ringer Loop. Please note a Discover Pass or day use fee is required here. For a list of Yakima River put-ins & take-outs and FAQ on our rental gear and floating the river, click here. 

Please send inquiries via e-mail outdoorpursuits@cwu.edu. Or contact Outdoor Pursuits and Rentals by phone at (509) 963-3537. 

Ellensburg’s NOAA weather 

Winter Resources
Washington State Dot Mountain Passes
PNW Avalanche Forecast
Nationwide Avalanche Forecast
American Avalanche Association 
American Institute for Avalanche Research & Education

Hiking, Mountaineering & Climbing Resources 
Washington Trails Association
Caltopo - Backcountry Mapping Website
Mountain Project
Summit Post
Turns All Year

River Flow Resources
Dream Flows
Professor Paddle
USGS Current Water Data 

Outdoor Activities Waiver - Hiking Trips
Outdoor Activities Waiver - Winter Activities
Rafting and Kayaking Waiver
Climbing Trip Waiver
Medical Information Form