With trails to run, mountains to ski, lakes to fish, and peaks to hike, boredom is a foreign concept within Walla Walla, Washington. And with 260 days of sunshine annually, it’s no wonder that Walla Walla is a sought-after destination for outdoor adventure seekers. Discover the diverse habitats in the McNary National Wildlife Refuge or take your adventure to new heights with a hot air balloon tour from Blue Mountain Balloons. There is no better place than Walla Walla to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and find refuge in the great outdoors.
Located just an hour northeast of Walla Walla is Bluewood Resort, a hot spot for snow sports enthusiasts. With varying terrain, this secret gem of the northwest offers short lift lines and wide-open trails. The resort has a variety of passes and packages, along with individual or group lessons, so no matter your skill set, you’re sure to have a day full of joy rides and scenic stops in the Blue Mountains of Southeastern Washington.
Come summer, Walla Walla’s snowcapped hills yield to fields of wildflowers and winding streams in the emerald green Umatilla National Forest. When ski runs turn to trails for hiking, biking, and exploring, there’s an adventure around every corner – and there are lots of corners – with more than 715 miles of trails in the Umatilla National Forest and 2,700 miles in the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest. Many trails accommodate both hikers and mountain bikers, including the Umatilla Rim Trail, Eagle Ridge Trail, South Fork Walla Walla Trail, and more. Trails range from beginner to intermediate and advanced, so there is something for everyone at any experience level.
Thanks to the summer sun, more outdoor activities open up as rivers, streams, lakes, and ponds fill with snow runoff, providing a home to several species including bass, trout, and salmon. Bring your waders when visiting Walla Walla and get ready to cast your line in some of the most beautiful rivers of the northwest. If you’re not an avid fisher, guided trips are a great way to learn the sport while discovering the beauty of Walla Walla. For those looking to stay in town, stocked ponds offer a similar fishing experience without having to venture far.
The Walla Walla Valley is celebrated as Washington’s top cycling destination, as its roads wind through the rolling hills, farms, and vineyards of the region. Visitors can join local group rides through Allegro Cyclery and Bicycle Barn, or rent bikes and cruise around for the day. The country roads stretch for miles from the heart of downtown, through the historical district, and into rural Washington.
Discover the mountains, rivers, lakes, and trails in Walla Walla’s backyard.
