Wine Tastings & Orchard Strolls in Yakima
Yakima
Tips on renting in Yakima
Getting Around
What to Pack
Must-Try Activities
Smart Spending Tips
In Yakima, the air dances with the freshness of cedar and hints of wildflowers, while sunlight glimmers on the Yakima River, inviting you to dive into a world of outdoor adventure. This vibrant hub, home to around 93,701 souls, is a gateway to breathtaking experiences that blend nature and culture seamlessly.
Start your day at the scenic Rimrock Lake, where crystal-clear waters beckon for kayaking or paddleboarding. Rent equipment from local outfitters like Yakima Valley Adventures, and glide across the shimmering surface as Mount Rainier looms magnificently in the distance. After a morning of paddling, indulge in a gourmet picnic among the cherry blossoms at nearby Cowiche Canyon, where the trails lead through emerald forests filled with the sounds of chirping birds.
As evening descends, sip exquisite wines at the family-owned Gilbert Cellars, or savor artisanal bites at the quaint Café Melange. This lesser-known gem is ideal for both couples seeking romance and families longing for adventure. Whispered among locals are secrets to serene riverbanks perfect for sunset picnics. Yakima awaits, ready to envelop you in its water-laden embrace.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to see what Yakima has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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To visit the Yakima Valley Museum, plan your trip between Tuesday and Saturday, when the museum is open from 10am to 5pm. Admission prices are $8 for adults, $6 for seniors and students, $5 for children ages 5-18, and free for children under 5. Be sure to explore the museum’s extensive exhibits, including the historic H. M. Gilbert Homeplace and the nostalgic Museum Soda Fountain, for a comprehensive and engaging look into the region’s rich history and culture.
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For a seamless and scenic boat launch experience in the Yakima River Canyon, head to the Bighorn recreation site, which features a boat launch, campground, and stunning river frontage. This site, managed by the Bureau of Land Management, is one of the most popular access points and offers ample parking for a nominal fee. It’s ideal for launches year-round, but September and October are particularly appealing with warmer water and lower river flows.
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Dogs are welcome on several hiking trails in Yakima, Washington. At the Cowiche Canyon Trail, dogs can accompany you as you hike and cross the creek via numerous bridges, with the requirement that they be under voice control or leashed in busy areas. The Yakima Skyline Trail and Umtanum Creek Canyon also allow dogs, while the Norm and Nellie Byrd Off-Leash Dog Park offers a dedicated space for off-leash fun. However, it’s important to note that some trails, like those in the Selah Cliffs Natural Area Preserve, do not permit dogs.
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For breathtaking scenic views in Yakima Valley, hike the Cowiche Canyon trails, which offer 20 miles of diverse paths meandering through and above the canyon, adorned with wildflowers in spring and vibrant autumn leaves. Another standout is the Umtanum Creek Canyon trail, a 6.5-mile round trip with an easy to moderate difficulty, featuring a suspension bridge over the Yakima River and stunning river views, best enjoyed from February to May with a $5 public parking fee. The Ahtanum State Forest’s Whites Ridge trail is also a must, a 10.9-mile roundtrip loop with significant elevation gain, offering panoramic views of the Yakima Valley and Mount Adams.
