Pac-Man Rock (Yakima River Canyon)

VerifiedBeginner (0-30 ft)

46.85490, -120.47460

Confirmed by 2 jumpers

The painted basalt column in the Yakima River Canyon south of Ellensburg, once a smiley face and now a Pac-Man. Ledges run up to 30 feet, with the nearby Fire Rocks closer to 40.

Jumps at this location

Low ledge

15 ft

Beginner (0-30 ft)

Pac-Man ledge

30 ft

Beginner (0-30 ft)

Photos from jumpers

Added by ZL

Off the main ledge on a summer float day · Jul 2026

Tubes, kayaks and boards staging on the bank below the rock · Jul 2026

Looking back at the rock from the water — the walk-up route goes around to the right · Jul 2026

Warnings

A jumper died here in 2023 and others have been seriously hurt. The river moves, the eddy is deceptive, and depth changes with irrigation releases.

Access

Pullouts along SR 821 (Canyon Road) between the Umtanum and Roza recreation sites; most people reach it floating the river. BLM day-use fee at the developed sites.

Best conditions

Late July through September when the river drops and warms.

Submitted by ZLVerified Jul 18, 2026