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Arthur G. Rempel Nature Trail

The Arthur G. Rempel Nature Trail at the Fort Walla Walla Natural Area adjacent to the Fort Walla Walla Museum and west of the VA Medical Center is another spot that provides in-town outdoor recreation. This pocket of nature offers walking paths and birding opportunities. With over a mile of trails and many different paths to explore, this trail feels longer than it really is. Choose your own adventure, and perhaps you’ll spot a Great Horned Owl or Red Fox. Next time you are wanting to put off errands, give the Arthur G. Rempel Nature Trail a try.

  • What To Do
    • Hiking

      This is a great spot to enjoy a walk in Walla Walla that feels like someplace found in the mountains. The many paths are fun to navigate, and the vegetation often creates natural arches that make it feel a bit like a secret garden. A group of adults could easily spend hours quietly searching for the next life-list bird, while families discover little bridges across marshy areas and look for all sorts of creatures. This is a great place to reset the pace of daily life without actually having to leave the hustle and bustle of town.

  • What To Expect

    Enjoy an easy, convenient walk in town with all the perks of a walk in the woods. The area is maintained by the Blue Mountain Audubon Society and the City of Walla Walla. The Blue Mountain Land Trust’s Blues Crew recently spent a day spreading fresh mulch to prepare for spring users and re-establish the trails. Many volunteers make enjoying this area possible. Consider joining that effort. So next time you just need a break, grab your binoculars and head to the Fort Walla Walla Natural Area.

  • When To Go

    There really isn’t a bad time to visit the natural area. Even when rivers are at flood stages, those itching to stretch their legs and walk on something other than concrete will enjoy this trail. Pair this outing with a trip to the Fort Walla Walla Museum or Children’s Museum of Walla Walla for added fun. Overall, a great place to engage with nature, especially when the mountains aren’t quite accessible for other outdoor recreation activities.

  • How To Get There

    From downtown Walla Walla head west on Poplar Street to Myra Road. Take a left onto Myra Road. Drive 0.4 miles and take a left at the Fort Walla Walla Museum entrance. The gravel parking area for the Arthur G. Rempel Nature Trail is on the left.

Please do not solely rely on Google Maps as their route might not always reflect what is maintained.

  • Your Public Lands

    City of Walla Walla, Blue Mountain Audubon Society

  • Distance:

    Within 1.5 Hours

  • Difficulty Level:

    Day Tripper

  • Seasons:

    Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter

  • Elevation:

    860 feet

  • Pets:

    Yes

  • Reservations:

    N/A

  • ADA:

    No

  • Multi-Use:

    N/A

  • Motorized Vehicles :

    N/A

  • Fees

    None

  • Permits

    None

  • Regulations

    Foot traffic only. Please stay on the trails and respect wildlife. All pets must be on a leash.

  • Amenities

    Facilities are available at the Fort Walla Walla Museum during business hours. There is a public restroom near the Fort Walla Walla Military Cemetery, which is on the other side of the museum grounds.

  • Wildlife Awareness

    We are all so fortunate to recreate in the Blue Mountains. So many opportunities exist to play outside whether in a national forest, wilderness area, on a Wild and Scenic River, and more! With these opportunities comes great responsibility to appreciate that we are mere visitors and should all take pride in being good stewards of the wild. Many animals call these protected places home, including moose, elk, bear, cougar, bobcat, and snakes to name a few. Take precautions to respect their home and understand the appropriate response should an encounter occur. Additionally, many plant species thrive in the Blue Mountains, so staying on trail is always good practice. Carry First Aid supplies to better respond to accidents or encounters, and always let others know where the day's adventure is taking you.

  • Field Notes

    Navigation: Consider downloading the Avenza Map app. This app allows users to upload three maps (or unlimited with a subscription) to use offline. It can track your location offline and overlay GPS data from the phone onto the map. The vehicle use maps (for trails allowing motorized vehicles) are the easiest to use. Otherwise, Geo Tracker offers similar tracking capabilities and additional details about your adventure. If no service, Geo Tracker will at least show your location. The Blue Mountains and surrounding area offer a remote recreating experience, and knowing your location is paramount to staying safe. Always make sure to bring paper maps. Tell others where your adventure is taking you and when you expect to return.

    Difficulty Level: Here is what we are thinking when we assign a difficulty level: Day Tripper--You don't have much experience in the area but want to get outside! Great for families of all ages. Adventurer--You know your way around the Blue Mountains and love a leisurely day outdoors. Mountaineer--You are ready for a challenge. Wild places excite you and sweat is the goal. Small children beware. Keep in mind some activities may apply to multiple difficulty levels based on usage.

    Pets: In general, pets are allowed on a leash and under control throughout jurisdictions. The only restrictions we have encountered are around swimming areas. As a best practice, be mindful of riparian habitat in general. You never know where a precious spawning area might be located. Pack it in and pack it out applies to your furry friend as well.

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