From mid-September to mid-June, the visitor center is open Tuesday to Saturday, 9 AM to 4 PM. From mid-June to mid-September, it is open 7 days a week, 9 AM to 4 PM. Park grounds and trails are open daily from sunrise to sunset.
There is no entrance fee to visit the Whitman Mission National Historic Site. Admission is free for all visitors.
From Walla Walla, take Highway 12 west, then turn onto Whitman Mission Road. Immerse yourself in the historic landscape where pioneers and Native American cultures intersected, set against the backdrop of Washington’s picturesque wine country.
Parking is available in a circular lot in front of the Visitor Center, suitable for cars, motorcycles, and smaller RVs. No overnight parking or fees. Ample space but limited for large RVs.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Partial
Tucked away in the heart of Washington’s wine country, just west of Walla Walla, lies the Whitman Mission National Historic Site, a poignant and serene destination that intertwines history, nature, and cultural significance. This site, once the home of Dr. Marcus and Narcissa Whitman, is set against the backdrop of the Walla Walla River Valley and the majestic Blue Mountains of southeastern Washington.
As you wander through the mission grounds, you follow in the footsteps of pioneers and Native Americans, their stories etched into the landscape. The self-guided trails, lined with interpretive signs, lead you through the remnants of the historic mission buildings, the restored mill pond, and the irrigation system that once sustained this community. The Great Grave, where the Whitmans and eleven others were laid to rest after the tragic events of November 29, 1847, is a somber reminder of the site’s history.
The Mission Grounds Loop trail offers a 360-degree view from the top of a hill, where the Whitman Memorial stands. Here, the rolling hills and verdant valleys unfold before you, changing with the seasons from lush green to golden hues. The area is rich in wildlife, with birds and deer often seen roaming the grounds.
Visitors can explore the site daily from sunrise to sunset, with the visitor center open from 9 to 4, offering insights into the complex history and cultural interactions that define this place. The site is free to visit, making it an accessible yet deeply enriching experience.
Nearby, the charming town of Walla Walla awaits, filled with artisan boutiques, wineries, and local eateries that celebrate the region’s culinary and cultural heritage. For those seeking more adventure, local outfitters offer guided tours and outdoor activities that complement the historic and natural beauty of the Whitman Mission National Historic Site.
In the summer, the site comes alive with various programs and events, including ranger-led tours and educational programs that delve into themes of religion, land management, and social justice. These initiatives foster a deeper understanding and healing from the historical traumas associated with this place.
- Area (mi²)
- 1
- Annual visitors
- 50 000
- Established year
- 1936
Top 3 Facts about Whitman Mission National Historic Site
In 1847, a measles outbreak killed half the local Cayuse population, approximately 150 people, leading to heightened tensions and ultimately the deaths of Dr. Marcus Whitman and his wife Narcissa. This event was a pivotal moment in the complex and often fraught interactions between the missionaries and the Native American community.
This historic site, where the Walla Walla River and Mill Creek converge, is a tapestry of native grasses and diverse tree species. Field bindweed, an invasive species, coexists with the natural flora. The landscape is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, coyotes, and birds such as the western meadowlark and the American kestrel. The area’s unique ecosystem, rich in cultural and natural history, offers a profound connection to the land and its ancestral stewards, the Cayuse and Walla Walla tribes.
In the heart of the Columbia River Plateau, this historic site is set against a backdrop of gentle slopes and flat floodplains, with elevations ranging from 615 to 724 feet above sea level. The landscape is dotted with maples, sycamores, and elms, and cut through by the meandering Mill Creek and restored Doan Creek. The region’s geology is marked by colossal ripple marks and 200-ton boulders, testament to the immense hydraulic force of ancient floodwaters. Temperatures fluctuate from 39.5°F in January to 89.2°F in July, creating a diverse and dynamic environment.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Ranger-led Tours
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Living History & Cultural Demos
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Visit during summer for ranger programs. Park for free, start at the visitor center, and watch the introductory film. Walk the 0.5 mi trails, anticipating uneven terrain and rest stops. Pack meals, as options are limited. Enjoy sweeping views from the monument hill.
Pack Appropriately
Pack layers for variable weather, sturdy hiking boots, and a daypack with essentials like water, snacks, and a first-aid kit. For camping, bring a tent, sleeping bag, and headlamp. Check the season for specific gear needs.
Respect Wildlife
Respect the land by staying on marked paths, avoiding wildlife disturbance, and not removing native plants. Be mindful of seasonal changes and weather to preserve this sacred and biologically rich environment. Leave nothing behind but footprints.
Stay Informed
Stay on marked trails, avoid ledges and water, and check weather conditions. Follow park signs and rules. For emergencies, call 911 or park authorities at 509-522-6360. Stay informed, stay safe.
Seasons
Visit in spring as temperatures rise to the 60s and 70s, with mild weather perfect for hiking trails and exploring historic grounds. Catch the updated spring schedule starting April 23, with the Visitor Center open Tuesday through Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Immersive outdoor experiences await.
Explore historic grounds from May to September, with temperatures in the 80s and sunny weather. Attend free ranger programs at 11:00 a.m. and 1:30 p.m., immerging in the site’s poignant history and natural beauty. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs.
Visit in fall, when crisp temperatures (40s-60s°F) and golden hues envelop the historic grounds. Attend the annual Cayuse Roots Gathering in October to immerse in Native American culture and history. Mild weather makes for ideal self-guided walks and ranger-led tours.
Visit from September to June, when crisp winter air (30s-40s°F) and occasional snow enhance the historic landscape. Serene trails and fewer crowds make for a poignant, immersive experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Whitman Mission National Historic Site has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
-
The drive from Seattle to Whitman Mission National Historic Site is approximately 270 miles and takes around 4 hours and 30 minutes. From Seattle, you would drive east on I-90, then connect to I-182E, and continue on US-12E to reach the site near Walla Walla, WA.
-
Dogs must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet at all times. They are not allowed inside buildings, and owners must pick up after them. Dogs should never be left unattended.
-
Yes, parking is free. There are no entry or parking fees at this site.
-
The significant events that led to the end of the Whitman Mission include the measles outbreak in November 1847, which killed half of the local Cayuse population but had a lower mortality rate among the white settlers. This led the Cayuse to blame Dr. Marcus Whitman and his wife Narcissa for the devastation, resulting in their murder along with eleven others on November 29, 1847. The attack also led to the capture of forty-seven mission residents and ultimately sparked the Cayuse War.