The Tieton River and Yakima area are hidden gems of the Pacific Northwest. Located in Central Washington, just on the border of the Goat Rocks Wilderness, whitewater enthusiasts flock to this area every September for the dam releases out of Rim Rock Lake that create the roller coaster waves and fast paced whitewater that the Tieton River is infamous for. While the river is often what brings people to the area each Fall, there are so many other wonderful things to do and places to explore while visiting!
Surrounded by forests and wilderness areas, the Tieton River is a hiker’s paradise.
Hiking. Located outside of Yakima, WA are some of Washington’s most epic wilderness areas. Within an hour drive you could find yourself in Mt. Rainier National Park, the Oak Creek Wildlife Area, Norse Peak Wilderness Area – the possibilities are endless! Not sure where to go first? Check out the Tatoosh Wilderness Trails for some epic hikes and epic views of Mt. Rainier. Looking for something more family friendly? Take a stroll on the Tieton Nature Trail along the river or visit the paved trails of the Yakima Greenway. The Goat Rocks Wilderness is one of our guide’s favorite side trips for hiking, wild life, geological wonders, and some incredible views!
Enjoy the Flavors of the Yakima River Valley. Who needs Napa, when you have the Yakima River Valley? With fresh fruit and grapes literally falling off of trees all around you, Yakima is your one-stop shop for all things fresh produce and wine.
Yakima Farmers Market. Every Sunday in downtown Yakima, local farmers and co-ops meet for the weekly Farmers Market where you can pick up fresh veggies including asparagus, lettuce and broccoli as well as fresh fruit including pears, cherries and apples as well as local artisan crafts. Perfect for snacks on the drive home after an excited Saturday rafting. Or nibble on them while getting ready to play on the river on Sunday afternoon.
Wine Tastings. With over 100 wineries in the area, it can be a bit daunting to choose which ones to visit (first). While there may not be time for all of them in one weekend, there is a hub that has 10! With meanderings trails leading you to 10 unique wineries with gorgeous tasting rooms, the Vitner’s Village in Prosser, WA is the perfect afternoon wine tasting getaway. Have a few extra days on your hands? Check out all of the wineries in the area here.
Beer & Hops. Fun fact: 75% of the hops in the United States are grown in the Yakima Valley. And even more fun fact: that means there are lots of beers to be tasted in the Yakima Valley. Not sure where to start? Check out this map from Spirits & Hops Trail for a great starting point.
Fly Fishing. Wanting to stick to the water? Try your hand at fly fishing with a guided tour on the Yakima River. Floats range from 5-20 miles depending on water levels with most of the fishing happening from the float raft. For more information, check out Red’s Flyshop located on the Yakima River.
Rimrock Lake. Spend a relaxing morning driving the Rimrock Lake Recreation Loop, and pick your favorite spot for a picnic or to lounge at a beach. If you’re looking for something a little more upbeat, rent a boat and try your hand at water skiing or wake boarding.
The Town of Yakima. The Yakima Area Arboretum is a living museum, and their annual Autumn Bounty Garden Party on September 10th is a great way to spend an evening after rafting. Perhaps the Capitol Theatre, often hosting the Yakima Symphony Orchestra, cultural events, and plays is more your idea of a night out. Yakima is also full of history, home to 14 different museums ranging from aviation to the electric railway to the Yakama Nation Cultural Museum.
Lodging. We know you’ll want to spend the weekend! There are lots of options for where to stay. Sleep underneath the stars while camping next to a lake, pamper yourself at one of the historic bed and breakfasts, find your home away from home with a vacation rental, or stay central at one of the hotels in downtown.
With so many things to do, the Tieton River is the ultimate weekend getaway adventure. Raft, camp, hike, fish, sip – the choices are endless. We will see you on the river!
Mikayla is full-time Marketing, Reservations and Base Support as well as the silliest, sassiest member of the office.
