On the Trail
Hiking, Biking & Off-Road Trails
Both the White Pass and Chinook Pass Scenic Byways funnel into the Yakima Valley, making the geologic diversity of the Cascade Mountain Range just a short drive away. There are also three major rivers flowing through the Valley, forming 109 different lakes and a total of 173 miles of flowing river, perfect for everything from fishing to rafting to standup paddleboarding. All this geologic diversity means this is one of those places where you can ski in the morning, mountain bike in the afternoon, then golf at twilight. You know what the hardest part about coming to the Yakima Valley is? Figuring out what to do first!
Because of its unique geology and proximity to the eastern slopes of the Cascade Mountain Range, the Yakima Valley is a hiker's paradise. Rocky, granite canyons are topped by scenic, high-desert landscapes. Forest trails give way to breath-taking mountain vistas. But the best part? It's all just minutes away from Downtown Yakima. A quick drive, a short hike, and you get postcard-perfect views, and it took the same amount of time most people spend sitting in traffic every day.
It doesn't matter what your fitness level is, there's plenty of hiking options in the Yakima Valley! Stroll along 18-miles of paved pathway down the Yakima Greenway, escape into the scenic Yakima River Canyon or scale the summit of Mount Rainier; the possibilities are endless and easily accessible. And since many hiking trails pass through the vineyards of our local wineries, make sure to plan accordingly and end your hike on a delicious note!
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Cowiche Canyon
Cowiche Canyon Conservancy maintains more than 30 miles of hiking trails that cater to all fitness levels. And with four different trailheads, that means easily accessible day hikes close to Downtown Yakima!
Learn More9 miles from the Visitor Information Center
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Chinook Pass
This Scenic Byway connects three designated wilderness areas, two national forests and a national park, so there are limitless hiking options, from easy nature walks to thigh-burning uphill climbs!
Learn More67 miles from the Visitor Information Center
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White Pass
The White Pass Scenic Byway has endless options for hiking. Summit peaks, explore wilderness lakes or dive into rolling canyon! There are endless ways to find adventure on foot!
Learn More54 miles from the Visitor Information Center
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Umtanum Recreation Area
Located in the scenic Yakima River Canyon, this beautiful spot lets you hike through massive basalt cliffs before crossing the Yakima River and transitioning into spectacular rolling desert hills.
Learn More24 miles from the Visitor Information Center
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Yakima Greenway
18 miles of paved pathway parallels two rivers, several fishing ponds and three parks. And since its open year round from dawn to dusk, it's the perfect spot for getting the dog out for walk!
Learn More1 mile from the Visitor Information Center
Mountain Biking
Our 300 days of sunshine and the diverse geology of the Yakima Valley makes it a prime spot for mountain biking! And the best part: you don't have to drive forever to go do it! There are tons of places to get out and enjoy the outdoors with your bike! Whether you're just getting started riding or you're a seasoned pro, there are plenty of trails for everyone.
Road Biking
Cycling in the Yakima Valley provides a lot more than just great exercise. No matter what time of year you get out and ride, another great view is just around the corner. Bike past apple orchards in full bloom, alongside miles of lush vineyards, or acres of hop fields being harvested. Every season provides smooth roadways and scenic views while you pedal the miles away.
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Cowiche Canyon
Mountain Biking
With nearly 30 miles of trail stretching across two hilltops and a scenic canyon, this local favorite hosts a diverse mix of smooth gravel trails and aggressive single-track.
Learn More9 miles from the Visitor Information Center
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Chinook Pass
Mountain Biking
Fly along low-elevation trails in the sage-covered fringes of the forest, perfect for springtime and fall rides, or dodge through the trees in the high country that traverses through miles of alpine terrain.
Learn More67 miles from the Visitor Information Center
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White Pass
Mountain Biking
Once the snow melts you can ride to the top of White Pass Ski Resort, an elevation gain of nearly 2,000 feet! Not up for the challenge? There are plenty of accessible trails just minutes away.
Learn More54 miles from the Visitor Information Center
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Yakima River Canyon
Road Biking
Ride your bicycle past the basalt layers in valley walls and follow the meandering Yakima River, as it sometimes slices between basalt cliffs formed by centuries-old upheavals.
Learn More24 miles from the Visitor Information Center
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Yakima Greenway
Road Biking
The Yakima Greenway is an 18-mile paved pathway that follows the Yakima River stretching from Union Gap to Selah. Take a break from riding by stopping at one of the 3 parks along the way.
Learn More1 mile from the Visitor Information Center
Biking Recreation Businesses
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Ahtanum State Forest
With nearly 30 miles of trail stretching across two hilltops and a scenic canyon, this local favorite hosts a diverse mix of smooth gravel trails and aggressive single-track.
Learn More33 miles from the Visitor Information Center
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Oakcreek Wildlife Area
Fly along low-elevation trails in the sage-covered fringes of the forest, perfect for springtime and fall rides, or dodge through the trees in the high country that traverses through miles of alpine terrain.
Learn More42 miles from the Visitor Information Center
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Wenas Wildlife Area
Mountain Biking
Once the snow melts you can ride to the top of White Pass Ski Resort, an elevation gain of nearly 2,000 feet! Not up for the challenge? There are plenty of accessible trails just minutes away.
Learn More30 miles from the Visitor Information Center
Must See Yakima Valley Stops
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