Attractions and Places To See in Yakima County - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see in Yakima County encompass majestic natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant agricultural experiences. Located in south-central Washington, the region features towering mountains, scenic river valleys, and historical sites. Visitors can explore a varied geography that supports diverse wildlife and agricultural practices.
Best attractions and places to see in Yakima County
- The most popular attractions is View of Mount Rainier, a viewpoint that marks where the Naches Peak Loop Trail meets the Pacific…
Last updated: April 24, 2026
Chinook Pass
Highlight • Mountain Pass
Tip by
Dewey Lakes Overlook
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
View of Mount Rainier
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
Cispus Pass
Highlight • Mountain Pass
Tip by
Snow Mountain Ranch (Cowiche Canyon Conservancy)
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
Naches Peak Lake
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
Knife‘s edge
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
Sourdough Gap
Highlight • Mountain Pass
Tip by
Sheep Lake
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
Mount Adams
Highlight • Summit
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions in Yakima County.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Other adventures in Yakima County
Tips from the Community
At 5,430 ft, Chinook Pass offers stunning mountain along Mather Memorial Parkway. The pass is open mid-May to November—check for seasonal closures before you go.
0
0
The summit of this pass is marked by a rustic stone-and-wood archway that happens to be part of the legendary Pacific Crest Trail. If you want to hop off your bike for a minute, there's a pretty, short nature trail here with great views of Mt. Rainier, the Cascade Mountains, and Tipsoo Lake.
0
0
From Cispus Pass, a hiker can look down into two stunning river valleys, the Cispus to the west and the Klickitat to the east. It is a challenging day hike.
0
0
Nestled within the Cowiche Canyon Conservancy, Snow Mountain Ranch spans 2,000 acres, rising over 1,000 feet from the South Fork of Cowiche Creek to Cowiche Mountain's summit at 2,970 feet. Its intricate network of approximately 14 miles of trails meanders through diverse shrub-steppe habitats, home to 200 plant species, 125 bird species, and 64 butterfly species—exceeding the biodiversity of the entire British Isles. Spring and summer invite avid birdwatchers and unveil a breathtaking wildflower spectacle. As autumn arrives, the riparian zone bursts into a kaleidoscope of colors, as oaks, aspens, cottonwoods, wild rose, and willows paint the landscape with vibrant hues of yellow, red, and orange.
0
0
From the top of Sourdough Gap, you can catch sight of Mount Adams, Mount St. Helens, and other peaks. Don't forget to look down and appreciate the scenic view of Sheep Lake. The Sourdough Gap is part of the Pacific Crest Trail.
1
1
Climbing up to the summit of majestic Mount Adams is a strenuous adventure. With 12,280 feet, it is the second highest peak in the Pacific Northwest just after Mount Rainier. There is snow at the top all year round, so bring at least microspikes and appropriate layers of clothing. The view from the top is breathtaking and very well deserved once you conquered this beast of a volcano. The easiest access is from the south side at Coldwater Springs Camp, but you will still gain an elevation of 6,600 feet. The best time to summit is from May through October and between May 1 and September 30 you need to obtain a Mount Adams Climbing Permit here: https://www.recreation.gov/activitypass/4280e9ae-d010-11ea-8e82-82c0c22bed90
2
0
At this locations, you will not see Mount Rainier itself. This is where the Naches Peak Loop Trail meets with the Pacific Crest Trail. You can decide to go left or right to get to Chinook Pass a little further north.
2
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best natural attractions and viewpoints in Yakima County?
Yakima County offers stunning natural beauty. You can visit Chinook Pass, a mountain pass at 5,430 feet with breathtaking mountain views along Mather Memorial Parkway. Another popular spot is Dewey Lakes Overlook, a scenic viewpoint along the Pacific Crest Trail. For a challenging experience, explore Mount Adams, the second-highest peak in the Pacific Northwest, or the dramatic basalt cliffs of the Yakima River Canyon.
Where can I find historical and cultural sites in Yakima County?
Yakima County is rich in history and culture. Explore the Yakama Nation Cultural Center in Toppenish to learn about the Yakama Nation's heritage. The Yakima Valley Museum showcases the region's natural and cultural history, including its fruit industry. You can also visit the Central Washington Agricultural Museum, Fort Simcoe Historical State Park, or the American Hop Museum, the only one of its kind in the U.S.
Are there family-friendly activities and attractions in Yakima County?
Yes, Yakima County has many family-friendly options. The Snow Mountain Ranch (Cowiche Canyon Conservancy) offers trails suitable for families. The Yakima Greenway provides an 18-mile paved trail connecting parks, picnic areas, and playgrounds, perfect for outdoor activities and wildlife viewing. Agricultural tourism, with U-pick farms and farm stands, is also a fun experience for all ages.
What outdoor activities can I do in Yakima County?
The region is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. You can enjoy hiking on trails like the Cowiche Canyon Trail or the Pacific Crest Trail near Chinook Pass. The Yakima River is excellent for trout fishing, kayaking, rafting, and stand-up paddleboarding. For more ideas, check out the hiking guide or the cycling guide for Yakima County.
When is the best time to visit Yakima County attractions?
The best time to visit depends on your interests. For mountain passes like Chinook Pass, the season typically runs from mid-May to November. Spring and summer are ideal for birdwatching and wildflower displays in areas like Cowiche Canyon, while autumn brings vibrant foliage. Summer is also great for enjoying the Yakima River and agricultural experiences.
Are there any unique agricultural or culinary experiences in Yakima County?
Absolutely! Yakima Valley is renowned for its wine country, featuring over 90 wineries and five American Viticultural Areas. It's also a major hop-producing region, offering craft breweries and distilleries. You can explore agricultural tourism with farm tours, U-pick farms, and visits to farm stands, especially during the Yakima Farmers Market season from May to October.
Where can I find trails for hiking or running in Yakima County?
Yakima County offers a variety of trails. The Cowiche Canyon provides an intricate network of trails, including the Snow Mountain Ranch with about 14 miles of trails. The Yakima Greenway is an 18-mile paved trail perfect for running or leisurely walks. For more challenging hikes, consider routes near Cispus Pass or Knife's edge. You can find detailed routes in the hiking guide and running guide.
What are some notable natural landmarks in Yakima County?
Beyond the passes and viewpoints, Yakima County features significant natural landmarks. Mount Adams is a majestic peak offering challenging hikes. The Yakima River meanders through the county, known for its 'Blue Ribbon' trout fishing. The Selah Cliffs Natural Area Preserve protects unique flora and provides habitat for raptors, showcasing geological marvels formed from ancient basalt flows.
Are there any attractions suitable for winter visits in Yakima County?
While many mountain passes close seasonally, White Pass Ski Area, located west of Yakima, is a popular destination for skiing and other winter sports. Some lower elevation trails and cultural sites may also remain accessible, but it's always best to check seasonal conditions and opening hours.
What do visitors enjoy most about the natural areas in Yakima County?
Visitors frequently enjoy the stunning mountain views, especially from spots like Chinook Pass and View of Mount Rainier. The seasonal beauty, from blooming wildflowers and ripe berries in summer to vibrant fall colors around Dewey Lakes Overlook, is also highly appreciated. The diverse wildlife and opportunities for outdoor recreation are key highlights.
Can I find places to cycle in Yakima County?
Yes, Yakima County offers various cycling opportunities. The Yakima Greenway provides a paved trail for leisurely rides. For more extensive cycling, you can explore routes like Sunrise Park Road or loops from Yakima Sportsman State Park. Discover more options in the Cycling in Yakima County guide.
Most popular attractions in Yakima County
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Didn’t find what you were looking for?
Are you keen on exploring more awesome places nearby? Browse our guides:
Explore more
Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:
