A River Runs Through It

 

 

 

By Heather Caro

Photos courtesy of Canyon River Ranch

At first glance, the Lodge at Canyon River Ranch, tucked along the Yakima River south of Ellensburg, is reminiscent of any number of luxury destinations. Sweeping architecture and an attentive staff welcome visitors to accommodations loaded with modern amenities. But subtle hints — such as a front-entry reminder to “please remove waders” — suggest this is no ordinary resort.

In fact, with adjacent grounds that include nearly 15,000 acres of pristine sage-steppe terrain and a next-door fly shop recognized nationally for its knowledgeable fishing guides, Canyon River Ranch is fast becoming a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts.

“It’s one of those places that when people know they’re coming, they’re happy before they get here,” says Tim Robins, a Seattle-based physician and co-owner of the ranch.

With the dog days of summer fast approaching, Canyon River Ranch may be a great place for an al fresco get-away — whether you prefer to hike, boat, fish or just lounge poolside.

A day spent among the basalt cliffs and sage-flecked hills of the Yakima River Canyon can include a variety of activities: floating the river, hiking to Umptanum Creek Falls or even a riding on horseback — which can all be arranged at the lodge’s front desk. But for many outdoor devotees, the canyon is nearly synonymous with blue ribbon catch-and-release fly-fishing – and Red’s Fly Shop.

Since 1932 Red’s Fly Shop has been the local go-to spot for good fishing and easy conversation — and it remains the only fly shop located on the Yakima River. But in 2002, Steve Joyce, Tony Robins and Richard Leide took on the task of running the beloved establishment once Red and Marlene Blankenship decided to retire. Today, the previous owners reside in Ellensburg but still make occasional visits to ranch events.

“It’s a special relationship,” says Robins, who recalls bringing his children to riverside campouts near the site years ago.

And the old adage about never making a job out of your hobby? “We would all tend to disagree,” laughs Joyce, who says Red’s highly skilled guides could not be happier with the arrangement — mainly because of their enthusiastic customers. “Everyone we deal with is in recreation mode,” says Joyce with a grin. Visitors can shoot the breeze with the knowledgeable staff or sneak in a fly-fishing class at Red’s University (go to ruflyfishing.com for dates and specials). Through three core classes, Red’s instructors teach participants the basics of fly fishing — minus the fear factor. “It’s not as hard as people think it is,” explains Joyce.  Classes include use of all the necessary gear — including rod and waders.

Red’s Fly Shop

509-933-2300

redsflyshop.com

 

 

 

 

Wingshooting

Depending on season, Red’s Hunting — an upland bird hunting program — also offers pheasant, quail, dove and chukar hunting opportunities across more than 15,000 acres of privately owned land. Guided and nonguided packages are available.

Red’s Hunting

509-929-1802

redshunting.com

Unwind

Canyon River Ranch Lodge features suites with two beds and 1 1/2 baths, which are available on a nightly basis, in addition to several “cabins,” which are available for fractional ownership. Suites include a full kitchen (with full-sized stainless steel appliances and dishware), a living area with gas fireplace and flat-screen HD television, and a washer and dryer — for quick cleanup after a day on the river. But it is the canyon that takes center stage here — thanks to careful architecture and design.

The 10 suites, which range from $139-$299 per night, face the canyon and include either a private patio or deck with spectacular river views.

Additional amenities, such as an outdoor heated pool, a spa, a lodge great room with stone fireplace, a fully stocked game room and a library, are also available for use. And thanks to offerings such as spa services, wine-maker dinners and poolside yoga (available upon request with advance notification), guests can enjoy scenic vistas without breaking a nail.

If you go

Canyon River Ranch Lodge

14700 Canyon Road, Ellensburg

509-933-2100

canyonriver.net

Canyon River Ranch Lodge is managed by wine guru Tim Cook (of Tim’s Downtown Tasting Room fame), so visitors can expect plenty of food- and wine-related events on the horizon, including the first Canyon River Ranch Food and Wine Competition on Saturday, July 16.The sip, sample and swirl event will partner local wineries and culinary professionals — and guests are the judge of the best match. Tickets are $25 with proceeds to benefit Yakima Specialties.