Hike, Bike and Run beneath 300 days of sunshine in the Yakima Valley

On the Trail

Hiking, Biking & Off-Road Trails

The White Pass and Chinook Pass Scenic Byways lead into the Yakima Valley, placing the varied geology of the Cascade Mountain Range within a short drive. Three major rivers cross the Valley, creating 109 different lakes and 173 miles of flowing river for activities including fishing, rafting and standup paddleboarding.

That range of landscapes makes it possible to ski in the morning, mountain bike in the afternoon and golf at twilight. The real challenge of visiting the Yakima Valley is deciding which adventure to begin with.

• Hiking Areas
• Biking Areas
• Off-Road Areas

Hiking Trails

Yakima Valley Outdoor Adventure

The Yakima Valley’s distinctive geology and closeness to the eastern slopes of the Cascade Mountain Range make it a hiker's paradise. Rocky, granite canyons rise into scenic high-desert landscapes, while forest trails open onto breath-taking mountain vistas. These settings are only minutes from Downtown Yakima: take a quick drive and a short hike to reach postcard-perfect views in about the time many people spend sitting in traffic each day.

Hiking opportunities in the Yakima Valley suit every fitness level. Walk the 18-miles of paved pathway along the Yakima Greenway, head into the scenic Yakima River Canyon or scale the summit of Mount Rainier. Many routes pass through local winery vineyards, so plan to finish your hike on a delicious note.

Cowiche Canyon

Cowiche Canyon Conservancy maintains more than 30 miles of hiking trails for a broad range of fitness levels. Four trailheads provide convenient access to day hikes near Downtown Yakima.

Distance: 9 miles from the Visitor Information Center

Chinook Pass

This Scenic Byway reaches three designated wilderness areas, two national forests and a national park. Hikers can choose among easy nature walks and demanding uphill climbs.

Distance: 67 miles from the Visitor Information Center

White Pass

Hiking at the White Pass Scenic Byway can include summiting peaks, discovering wilderness lakes or heading into rolling canyon terrain. The area offers many ways to explore on foot.

Distance: 54 miles from the Visitor Information Center

Umtanum Recreation Area

In the scenic Yakima River Canyon, this area provides a route through massive basalt cliffs, across the Yakima River and onward into spectacular rolling desert hills.

Distance: 24 miles from the Visitor Information Center

Yakima Greenway

An 18-mile paved pathway runs beside two rivers, multiple fishing ponds and three parks. Open year round from dawn to dusk, it also provides a convenient place to take the dog for a walk.

Distance: 1 mile from the Visitor Information Center

Biking Trails

Yakima Valley Outdoor Adventure

Mountain Biking

With 300 days of sunshine and diverse geology, the Yakima Valley is a prime spot for mountain biking. Riding areas are close by rather than requiring a long drive, and trails welcome everyone from people just beginning to ride to seasoned pros.

Road Biking

Cycling in the Yakima Valley offers more than exercise. Each season brings another view along the route: apple orchards in bloom, miles of lush vineyards and hop fields during harvest. Smooth roadways and changing scenery make every time of year a reason to pedal the miles away.

Cowiche Canyon

Mountain Biking

Nearly 30 miles of trail cross two hilltops and a scenic canyon. This local favorite combines smooth gravel routes with aggressive single-track.

Distance: 9 miles from the Visitor Information Center

Chinook Pass

Mountain Biking

Low-elevation trails through sage-covered forest fringes are well suited to springtime and fall rides. Higher in the country, riders can weave through trees and cover miles of alpine terrain.

Distance: 67 miles from the Visitor Information Center

White Pass

Mountain Biking

After the snow melts, riders can climb to the top of White Pass Ski Resort, gaining nearly 2,000 feet in elevation. For those seeking a less demanding ride, accessible trails are only minutes away.

Distance: 54 miles from the Visitor Information Center

Yakima River Canyon

Road Biking

Follow the meandering Yakima River by bicycle and pass the basalt layers in the valley walls. In places, the river cuts between basalt cliffs shaped by centuries-old upheavals.

Distance: 24 miles from the Visitor Information Center

Yakima Greenway

Road Biking

The Yakima Greenway provides an 18-mile paved pathway following the Yakima River from Union Gap to Selah. Three parks along the route offer places to pause during the ride.

Distance: 1 mile from the Visitor Information Center

Biking Recreation Businesses

Cycle Yakima - Rentals & Tours

Yakima, WA
509-833-8133

Girls With Grit

Naches, WA 98937
509-480-5853

Wilridge Vineyard, Winery and Distillery

102 Wilridge Way
Yakima, WA 98908
509-966-0686

Off-Road Trails

Yakima Valley Outdoor Adventure

Ahtanum State Forest

This local favorite offers nearly 30 miles of trail across two hilltops and a scenic canyon, with a varied combination of smooth gravel and aggressive single-track.

Distance: 33 miles from the Visitor Information Center

Oakcreek Wildlife Area

Low-elevation routes pass through sage-covered forest fringes and work well for springtime and fall rides. In the high country, trails move through trees and across miles of alpine terrain.

Distance: 42 miles from the Visitor Information Center

Wenas Wildlife Area

When the snow melts, riders can reach the top of White Pass Ski Resort with an elevation gain of nearly 2,000 feet. More accessible trails are available nearby for those who do not want that challenge.

Distance: 30 miles from the Visitor Information Center