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Coal Creek and Hyak Creek are other environmentally sensitive areas, which will require protection and special attention.\ 2.5 Subarea "E" 2.5.1 Location and General Description The Hyak subarea is the largest of the subareas, covering over ten square miles and spanning the southern end of the study area from east to west. The northern end of Keechelus Lake and Interstate 90 form the eastern boundaries. 2.5.2 Natural Features Mount Catherine at 5,052 feet is the center piece for the Hyak area. The Cold Creek valley leads to Twin Lakes and a spectacular view of Silver Peak at 5,605. Other small lakes are tucked in the area north of Mount Catherine. Keechelus Lake, although a controlled reservoir, provides the visual image and, most of the year, the recreational attributes of a large natural lake. This may be affected for a time by dam stability concerns and repair efforts. 2.5.3 Existing Land Use and Ownership Over five square miles (fifty percent) of the planning area is Forest Service land and over two square miles is owned by Plum Creek Timber Company. Keechelus Lake, which covers over one square mile of the subarea, is managed by the Federal Bureau of Land Management. The remaining land is owned by numerous private owners and public agencies, with varying uses. Hyak Estates is located east of the Summit East ski area, and the Suncrest and Sundance Condominiums are located at the base of the ski area. There is also an approved Hyak PUD for a 25 lot development. The Snoqualmie Pass Sewer and Water District's sewage treatment plant is located near Hyak Division 4, and the District's effluent spray field is located on Forest Service and owned land farther to the south. The Washington State Department of Transportation operates a highway maintenance facility near the head of Keechelus Lake, which includes maintenance shops, garages and areas to stockpile sand and gravel. The Iron Horse State Park (and John Wayne Trail) is located on the abandoned Milwaukee Railroad right-of-way. The State Parks Department also owns some small parcels of adjacent land. The Summit East Ski Area is located on a combination of Forest Service and private land. The base of the ski area, including its support buildings and services, is on private land. 2.5.4 Access and Utilities The Hyak area has access from Interstate 90 at Exit 54 and SR906. SR906 provides a direct route to other areas near the summit. Kittitas County Comprehensive Plan December 2016