Visit Yakima Valley

Yakima Valley Water Recreation — Lakes, Rivers, and Water Sports

Water Sports

Yakima Valley Water Recreation

With 300 days of sunshine each year, the Yakima Valley still offers abundant water. Its waterways descend through the forested slopes of the East Cascade Mountain Range, creating 109 different lakes and a combined 173 miles of flowing rivers.

The Yakima River is Washington State's only designated Blue Ribbon trout fishing stream. Numerous lakes and reservoirs also create excellent opportunities for boating, kayaking, and waterskiing.

Water lovers can find whitewater excitement or spend a quiet afternoon fly fishing along a peaceful river. Across every season, the waterways of the Yakima Valley offer ways to get outside—and a refreshing way to beat the heat.

Yakima River Canyon

Yakima River Canyon is suited to an easy summertime float or a restful day of fly fishing. It is our state's only Blue Ribbon trout stream and provides numerous access points along with many ways to enjoy the water.

24 miles from the Visitor Information Center

Yakima Greenway

Following both the Yakima and Naches rivers, this 18 mile paved pathway includes six small lakes and fishing ponds that are ideal for a sunny afternoon. Boat launches are available at all of the larger ponds, and most also provide picnic facilities.

1 mile from the Visitor Information Center

Rimrock Lake

Located a quick 40-minute drive from Downtown Yakima, Rimrock Lake provides 187 square miles of prime water recreation. Rugged glaciers and towering forests surround the lake with breathtaking views.

43 miles from the Visitor Information Center

Tieton River

The Tieton River is the fastest-moving, fastest-dropping river in Washington. Each September, releases from Rimrock Lake produce 12 miles of exceptional whitewater rafting and kayaking.

33 miles from the Visitor Information Center

Little Naches River

Travel along Chinook Pass Scenic Byway to reach this exciting kayaking destination. Put in at Mathew Creek, then run 9.5 miles of class III and IV rapids to the Little Naches Campground.

53 miles from the Visitor Information Center

Bumping Lake

Glaciers created Bumping Lake naturally, and snowmelt continues to feed it. This picturesque fishing destination includes a boat launch, campgrounds, boat rentals, and tons of accesible adventure opportunities.

59 miles from the Visitor Information Center

Water Recreation Businesses

Blue Sky Outfitters

FOR INFO ONLY: 101 N Fair Ave
Yakima, WA 98901
800-228-7238

Girls With Grit

Naches, WA 98937
509-480-5853

Red's Fly Shop

14706 State Route 821
Ellensburg, WA 98926
509-933-2100

Rill Adventures, Inc.

11440 North Thorp Hwy.
Thorp, WA 98946
509-964-2520

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