Outdoor Adventure in the Yakima Valley: Hiking, Biking and Off-Road Fun

Enjoy hiking, biking and running in the Yakima Valley, where there are under 300 days of sunshine.

Explore the Trails

Hiking, Biking and Off-Road Routes

The White Pass and Chinook Pass Scenic Byways both lead into the Yakima Valley, placing the Cascade Mountain Range’s varied geology within an easy drive. Three major rivers also cross the Valley, creating 109 lakes and 173 miles of flowing river for activities such as fishing, rafting and standup paddleboarding.

With so much geological variety, you can ski in the morning, mountain bike in the afternoon and play golf at twilight. The biggest challenge of visiting the Yakima Valley may be deciding which activity to try first.

Hiking Areas

Biking Areas

Off-Road Areas

Hiking Trails

Yakima Valley Outdoor Adventure

The Yakima Valley’s distinctive geology and location near the eastern slopes of the Cascade Mountain Range make it a hiker’s paradise. Rocky granite canyons rise into scenic high-desert terrain, while wooded paths open onto breathtaking mountain views. These landscapes are only minutes from Downtown Yakima, so a short drive and brief hike can lead to postcard-perfect scenery in about the time many people spend in daily traffic.

Hikers of every fitness level can find an appropriate route in the Yakima Valley. Options range from an easy walk along the 18-miles of paved pathway on the Yakima Greenway to an outing in the Yakima River Canyon or an ascent of Mount Rainier. Many trails also pass through local winery vineyards, making it easy to finish the day with a delicious stop.

Cowiche Canyon

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

9 miles from the Visitor Information Center

Chinook Pass

This Scenic Byway reaches three designated wilderness areas, two national forests and a national park. Hiking choices range from gentle nature walks to demanding uphill climbs.

67 miles from the Visitor Information Center

White Pass

The White Pass Scenic Byway offers numerous ways to hike, including summit ascents, wilderness lakes and rolling canyons. Adventure on foot is available throughout the area.

54 miles from the Visitor Information Center

Umtanum Recreation Area

Within the scenic Yakima River Canyon, this recreation area leads hikers past enormous basalt cliffs. The route crosses the Yakima River before continuing into striking, rolling desert hills.

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 an ideal place to take the dog for a walk.

1 mile from the Visitor Information Center

Biking Trails

Yakima Valley Outdoor Adventure

Mountain Biking

The Yakima Valley combines 300 days of sunshine with varied geology, creating excellent conditions for mountain biking. Riding areas are close by rather than requiring a long drive, and trails welcome everyone from new riders to seasoned pros.

Road Biking

Cycling in the Yakima Valley offers scenic rewards in addition to exercise. Every season brings another view, from blooming apple orchards and miles of vineyards to hop fields during harvest. Riders can expect smooth roadways and changing scenery throughout the year.

Cowiche Canyon

Mountain Biking

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

9 miles from the Visitor Information Center

Chinook Pass

Mountain Biking

Low-elevation routes through sage-covered forest edges are especially appealing for spring and fall rides. Higher in the country, riders can weave through trees across miles of alpine terrain.

67 miles from the Visitor Information Center

White Pass

Mountain Biking

After the snow melts, cyclists can climb to the top of White Pass Ski Resort, gaining nearly 2,000 feet in elevation. Riders seeking something less strenuous will find accessible trails only minutes away.

54 miles from the Visitor Information Center

Yakima River Canyon

Road Biking

Cycle alongside the basalt layers exposed in the valley walls and follow the winding Yakima River. In places, the river cuts between basalt cliffs created by centuries-old upheavals.

24 miles from the Visitor Information Center

Yakima Greenway

Road Biking

The Yakima Greenway is an 18-mile paved route that follows the Yakima River between Union Gap and Selah. Three parks along the way offer places to pause during the ride.

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

Nearly 30 miles of trail run over two hilltops and through a scenic canyon. This popular local destination combines smooth gravel routes with aggressive single-track.

33 miles from the Visitor Information Center

Oakcreek Wildlife Area

Lower-elevation routes through the sage-covered forest margins are well suited to spring and fall rides. In the high country, trails pass through trees and continue across miles of alpine terrain.

42 miles from the Visitor Information Center

Wenas Wildlife Area

Mountain Biking

Once the snow has melted, riders can make their way to the top of White Pass Ski Resort with an elevation gain of nearly 2,000 feet. More approachable trails are also available just minutes away.

30 miles from the Visitor Information Center

Planning Your Yakima Valley Visit

The Official Yakima Valley Travel Guide™ offers maps, trip ideas and information about the area’s many attractions. It is the single best resource for planning your visit to the Yakima Valley and can serve as a companion throughout your stay.