Ahtanum State Forest
Ahtanum State Forest is a moderate 60+ miles off-road trail near Yakima, WA, best run May - November. The gear list marks All-terrain tires, 4WD with low range and Tow strap as required, and 2" lift kit and Skid plates as recommended. A stock high-clearance 4x4 can run it; check the gear list before you go.
Trail Conditions
No reports yet
Ahtanum State Forest covers the eastern slopes of the Cascades near Yakima, where dry ponderosa pine forest replaces the dark, wet forests of the western side. The drier climate means longer riding seasons and more predictable weather. Trail networks wind through open pine forests, past rocky outcrops, and along ridgelines with views of Mt. Adams and the Yakima Valley. The forest's moderate difficulty makes it accessible to most 4WD vehicles while still offering enough challenge to keep things interesting.
Fun Facts
Ahtanum means 'creek by the long mountain' in the Yakama language.
The forest sits on the rain shadow side of the Cascades, receiving only 15-20 inches of rain annually.
The area contains some of the largest contiguous ponderosa pine forests in Washington.
🛞 Tires
🔧 Suspension
⚙️ Drivetrain
🪢 Recovery
🛡️ Protection
Closest campgrounds to Ahtanum State Forest:
- Windy Point Campground · Naches · 12 mi (straight-line)
- Willows Campground · 13 mi (straight-line)
- South Fork Group Campground · 14 mi (straight-line)
- South Fork Bay Campground · 14 mi (straight-line)
- Hause Creek Campground · 14 mi (straight-line)
- Peninsula Campground · 15 mi (straight-line)
Straight-line distance. Check the map for drive time.
GPS Coordinates
Import into Gaia GPS, OnX Offroad, or Garmin
Map of Yakima, WA
5-Day Forecast
Nearby Trails
WHAT YOU'LL NEED
A mild lift, all-terrain tires, and correct gear ratio will get you through this trail confidently.
Tire Size Calculator
Convert tire sizes and compare diameter differences before you swap.
Size up correctly, 33s vs 35s matters on moderate terrain.
Gear Ratio Calculator
Find the right gear ratio after lifting or upsizing tires.
Re-gear after a tire upgrade to restore trail torque and MPG.
Wheel Fitment Calculator
Calculate backspacing and offset so wider wheels clear your suspension.
Extra wheel width = extra clearance on tight lines. Check offset before buying.
MPG Calculator
Estimate fuel economy after a tire upgrade, important for remote runs.
Bigger tires cut MPG. Plan your fuel stops for this trail.