10 Best Places for Day Trips From Yakima, WA

04 Jun 2026Updated last time

Yakima Canyon and Surrounding Highlights Itinerary Overview

Embark on a picturesque journey through the heart of Washington state with our carefully curated day trip itinerary, starting from Yakima, WA. This adventure is designed to showcase the natural beauty and charming offerings of the region, making it perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, wine aficionados, and those seeking a taste of the local culture. Begin your day by exploring the stunning Yakima Canyon. With towering cliffs and the serene Yakima River, this area provides breathtaking views and opportunities for fishing and wildlife viewing. Continue your outdoor adventure at the Cowiche Canyon Trail, where you can take in the picturesque landscape and enjoy a peaceful hike through diverse terrains.

For those looking to unwind, Suncadia Resort offers a luxurious retreat with golfing, spa services, and a variety of seasonal outdoor activities. Wine lovers will find the Rattlesnake Hills Wine Trail irresistible, with its array of local wineries offering exceptional tastings and vineyard tours. Adventure seekers can head to White Pass Ski Area for winter sports, or explore the scenic wonders along the Naches Peak Loop Trail, where Mount Rainier serves as a stunning backdrop. Each stop provides a unique experience that combines the beauty of nature with local culture, delivering a memorable journey for all.


Recommended Activities

  • 1

    Mount Rainier National Park

    This majestic park offers stunning alpine scenery, diverse wildlife, and outdoor activities like hiking and climbing. The iconic Mount Rainier is a breathtaking backdrop for any outdoor adventure.
  • 2

    Leavenworth, WA

    Leavenworth is a charming Bavarian-style village known for its unique architecture, vibrant festivals, and cozy local shops and restaurants. It's a perfect spot to experience a slice of Bavaria in the Pacific Northwest.
  • 3

    Ellensburg, WA

    Ellensburg is a vibrant college town known for its historic downtown, charming eateries, and community events. It's also home to beautiful surrounding landscapes for outdoor enthusiasts to explore.
  • 4

    Yakima Canyon

    Yakima Canyon offers breathtaking views of the Yakima River and surrounding cliffs, making it a popular destination for scenic drives, hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing.
  • 5

    Cowiche Canyon Trail

    Cowiche Canyon Trail provides a wonderful outdoor escape with picturesque hiking paths through a canyon landscape, featuring wildflowers, diverse terrain, and opportunities for birdwatching.
  • 6

    Seahurst Park

    Seahurst Park is a beautiful waterfront park offering beach access, forested trails, and stunning views of Puget Sound. It is perfect for picnics, beachcombing, and enjoying tranquil natural surroundings.
  • 7

    Suncadia Resort

    Suncadia Resort offers a luxurious escape with a variety of amenities, including golfing, spa services, and outdoor activities in a scenic mountain setting, perfect for relaxation and recreation.
  • 8

    Rattlesnake Hills Wine Trail

    The Rattlesnake Hills Wine Trail provides an opportunity to explore Washington’s wine country with numerous wineries offering tastings of renowned local wines and charming vineyard views.
  • 9

    White Pass Ski Area

    White Pass Ski Area is a popular winter destination for skiing and snowboarding, offering stunning mountain vistas and a variety of runs suitable for all experience levels.
  • 10

    Naches Peak Loop Trail

    Naches Peak Loop Trail is renowned for its stunning panoramic views, vibrant wildflowers, and the backdrop of Mount Rainier. This relatively easy hike offers a quintessential Pacific Northwest experience.

Restaurants

  • Picture for Cowiche Canyon Kitchen & Icehouse

    Cowiche Canyon Kitchen & Icehouse

    202 E Yakima Ave, Yakima, WA 98901, USA
    Located in Yakima, this restaurant offers a modern twist on classic American dishes in a rustic yet stylish setting, known for its farm-fresh ingredients.
    4.5
    $$$$
  • Picture for The Pike Brewing Company

    The Pike Brewing Company

    1415 1st Ave, Seattle, WA 98101, USA
    While slightly off the direct itinerary, this Seattle-based brewery is worth a stop for its unique craft beers and pub food in a vintage arcade ambiance.
    4.2
    $$$$
  • Picture for Cliff Droppers

    Cliff Droppers

    12968 US-12, Packwood, WA 98361, USA
    Located near White Pass, it is a hidden gem offering delicious gourmet burgers in a cozy, mountain-town atmosphere.
    4.6
    $$$$
  • Picture for Cascade Dining Room

    Cascade Dining Room

    Situated within Suncadia Resort, this restaurant offers a refined dining experience with stunning views and seasonal local cuisine.
  • Picture for The Viking Drive-Inn

    The Viking Drive-Inn

    Located in Ellensburg, this retro drive-in offers a unique culinary experience with its nostalgic vibe and beloved classic American fare like burgers and milkshakes.

Hotels

  • Hotel Maison

    321 E Yakima Ave, Yakima, WA 98901, USA

    Located in Yakima, this boutique hotel combines historic charm and modern comforts, offering a unique and luxurious stay with a nod to the city's French heritage.
  • Suncadia Resort

    3600 Suncadia Trail, Cle Elum, WA 98922, United States

    Set in Cle Elum, this resort offers a variety of accommodations amidst stunning natural surroundings, with extensive amenities including golf, a spa, and outdoor activities.
  • Hotel Packwood

    139 Alpine Dr, Packwood, WA 98361, United States

    A cozy and rustic lodge located near White Pass, ideal for those seeking a quaint mountain retreat with charming, homey touches and friendly service.
  • The Lodge at Canyon River Ranch

    14700 WA-821, Ellensburg, WA 98926, USA

    Situated along Yakima River Canyon, this lodge offers luxurious accommodations with spectacular views and access to outdoor adventures like fly-fishing and hiking.
  • The Inn at Gamble Sands

    200 Sands Trail Rd, Brewster, WA 98812, USA

    Located in Brewster with a focus on golfing, this inn offers elegant accommodations and stunning views of the Columbia River and surrounding mountains.

Local Events & Happenings


Travel Gems from Reddit

  • Yakima Day Trip?

    /r/Yakima

    A place to discuss Yakima, WA! ... Thinking of doing a little day trip(maybe an overnight) trip over to Yakima. Any good places to eat or points of interest?

  • Outdoorsy places for a day trip?

    /r/Yakima

    Hi everyone, I'll be visiting for a few days soon but don't really have a car and would love to see more of the nature side of the state. Are there

  • Yakima Valley Trip

    /r/Washington

    Hi all! I want to check out the Yakima Valley - staying there for one night. Im interested in wineries, outdoor activities and quaint

  • Day trip with grandma

    /r/Yakima

    Im flying to Seattle with my grandma this weekend and doing a day trip to Yakima while there. She is elderly and cant hike, but I enjoy looking at scenic views as does she. Do...

  • What to see and where to stay between Yakima and Maryhill

    /r/Washington

    Planning a driving tour through ... the next day. I have never been to Yakima area- looking for easy hikes, viewpoints, and other things to see/do. Yakama Nation Cultural Cent...