From thrilling rapids to flat, calm water, outdoor enthusiasts can tailor their adventure based on skill and comfort level. Local outfitters have both the equipment and expertise to navigate more remote areas, and conditions vary based on time of year and snow pack.
Getting out on the water is truly a three season affair (and some would argue four). Don’t let the summer’s dry, hot reputation fool you; the Walla Walla valley is appropriately named that for a reason.
Likely the best place to experience a river trip is based out of Minam, Oregon. Guided rafting trips on the Wallowa and Grande Ronde Rivers are a fun way to gather the family.
Of course, kayaking is also a great option. Whitman College offers open kayak nights that are instructor-led sessions in the Harvey Pool on campus. These sessions are open to the public. Once comfortable maneuvering a kayak, the Outdoor Program Rental Shop is also open to the public.
Another fun water sport is paddleboarding. I can’t think of a better way to spend an afternoon than paddling the Palouse River at Lyons Ferry State Park while gazing up at the unique, desert landscape.
Conversely, the closest mountain lake is Jubilee Lake.
Events That Require A Towel
If you have a competitive streak, there are a few events sprinkled throughout the valley that require a bathing suit. Swim the Snake is open to brave swimmers, paddleboarders, and kayakers.
The event occurs between Lyons Ferry Marina and Lyons Ferry State Park, crossing the Snake River. Not only is this a great way to spend a hot August day, but it is also a fundraiser, so recreate for a cause.
The Onion Man Triathlon is another event that involves taking a dip. Celebrating over a quarter of a century of Onion Man Triathlons, this event takes place at Bennington Lake.
Dive Into Natural History
Perhaps when you think of water in Washington State, you think of Puget Sound, the beach, or rainy Seattle weekends. With the Snake and Columbia Rivers under an hour away and essentially our regional border on three sides, water plays an integral and dynamic role in the Blue Mountain region.
Water carved the Blue Mountains, charges the aquifers, and irrigates the land. It also means there are a variety of ways to engage with it, such as paddleboarding, kayaking, and rafting.
To truly appreciate those opportunities, allow us to suggest a few resources: Many Waters: Natural History of the Walla Walla Valley and Vicinity and The Blues: Natural History of the Blue Mountains of Northeastern Oregon and Southeastern Washington. Both books capture our natural resources in an accessible way thanks a collaborative effort between scientists, artists, poets, and local historians.
Pick up your copies at Book & Game downtown Walla Walla–the investment in knowledge will transform your water adventures.
