Teanaway River
The Teanaway Valley Unit consists of conifer forest, meadow, and historic agricultural field, interspersed with riparian corridors. Wildlife use is diverse, including elk, deer, wolf, turkey, grouse, quail, and a myriad of small mammals, neo-tropical/upland birds, raptors, and reptiles. The property is bisected by the main stem of the Teanaway River, which hosts both resident and federally-listed anadromous stocks. Hunting, fishing, hiking, and horseback riding are all popular here. The unit sits amidst the Teanaway Community Forest, and was purchased to protect endangered species, so recreation development will be limited. There is a parking area and non-motorized use is welcomed.
The Teanaway Unit is approximately 13 miles northeast of CleElum in Kittitas County.
The Teanaway Unit is bordered by private property and the Teanaway Community Forest.
This unit is part of the L.T. Murray Wildlife Area.
Game Management Unit: 335
Getting there
Maps and directions to WDFW-managed access points for this unit. Opens Google Maps in a new tab.
Recreation and public access
A Discover Pass is required on WDFW lands -- including water access areas, wildlife areas, and campgrounds -- unless you already have a Vehicle Access Pass issued with the purchase of an eligible hunting or fishing license. Recreate responsibly on public lands: please know the Public Conduct Rules.
Public facility information:
- Parking area
Recreation and access advisories
- Private property and the Teanaway Community Forest border the property. Respect private property; do not trespass.
Hunting
Big game and upland birds, including California quail, turkey, mourning dove, and forest grouse provide significant hunting opportunity on this unit
Hunting advisories
- A SAFETY ZONE has been established near the parking area and neighboring infrastructure. No weapons may be discharged within this zone.
Fishing
The Teanaway River bisects the property and contains both resident and anadromous fish stocks.
Wildlife viewing
This unit includes a conifer forest, riparian corridors, and several small ephemeral streams. It offers opportunities to view a variety of wildlife, including deer, elk, raptors, quail, and wild turkey.
Search for potential birding opportunities on or near a wildlife area unit by using eBird Northwest, a citizen science database portal that provides freely-shared bird lists at 'hotspots' and interactive maps plus other birding information updated daily.
Conservation
Vegetation is mostly conifer forest, a meadow, and an old agricultural field that is undergoing restoration.
Conservation goals
- Maintain or improve conditions for priority species and habitats
- Protect and restore native plant communities
- Protect critical elk winter range and upland game bird habitat
- Preserve habitat and species diversity of fish and wildlife resources
Land stewardship
Acquisition history
The parcels making up this area were purchased in 2017.
| Funder | Fund |
|---|---|
| State of Washington | WA Dept of Ecology |
| US Fish and Wildlife Service | Endangered Species Act Section 6 Program |
Management planning
The planning process for the new management plan for the L.T. Murray Wildlife Area has begun. In lieu of hosting a public workshop, we have prepared some materials for you to learn more about the wildlife area, the planning process, and how to provide your input to us.
Description of the L.T. Murray Wildlife Area (video): An overview of the wildlife area and the key habitats, species, and recreation opportunities.
Management Planning Process (video): An overview of the wildlife area management planning process.
PDF: Brief description of the planning process and wildlife area units.
2023 L.T. Murray Wildlife Area Management Plan
Planning Advisory Committee
L.T. Murray Wildlife Area Advisory Committee