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West Tiger Creek Trail

Close to town, great views on the drive to the trail, and a number of wineries along the way (for the return trip) make the West Tiger Creek Trail a fun, accessible option for outdoor recreation in the Blue Mountains. The Blue Mountain Land Trust Blues Crew is working hard to restore this trail and advocating for improvements. The trail follows Tiger Creek and crosses it a few times, making it a fun, family-friendly option to get outside.

  • What To Do
    • Hiking/ Snowshoeing

      West Tiger Creek Trail (#3229) is a short and easy (roughly 2 mile out and back path in its current condition) that used to connect into Tiger Ridge Trail (#3324), but a storm in the late 1990s washed out the connection. Many folks are working to restore that connection, so stay tuned for exciting developments. In the winter, it is fun to wander the trail and listen to the snow-lined creek. As part of those improvements mentioned, we hope to see river crossings built which would make more seasonal use of the trail easier.

  • What To Expect

    This family-friendly trail is a great way to get everyone outside. In the summer, the trees provide excellent cover and Tiger Creek is, of course, refreshing, so even when it is hot in the valley, this trail can offer some relief. Its low elevation also means that during winter months it is easier to access and take a quick hike, especially if the snow level hasn’t quite dipped down that far.

  • When To Go

    Given the proximity to town, lower elevation, and well-maintained roads, the West Tiger Creek Trail is definitely one to add to the visit year-round list. Escape the summer heat or look for hibernating ladybugs in the winter, this trail is one for every season. If visiting after recent snow, users will need a 4x4 or AWD vehicle with traction tires to successfully navigate the road. There isn’t much room to turn a vehicle around, so know that you are likely plowing your own tracks at times.

  • How To Get There

    Please do not solely rely on Google Maps as their route might not always reflect what is maintained. This trail is located a mere 19.5 miles from downtown Walla Walla. Head east on Isaacs Avenue and continue onto Mill Creek Road. Travel on Mill Creek Road for 14 miles and you will come to a junction with Tiger Creek Road (sometimes referred to as Tiger Canyon Road or Tiger Ridge Road). Turn right onto Tiger Creek Road and cross a small bridge before the road begins its ascent. If you miss your turn, you will come to a gate for the Mill Creek Watershed. Once you find Tiger Creek Road, go ½ mile and West Tiger Creek Trail starts at the turnout on your right. There is a new trail sign thanks to the Blue Mountain Land Trust's Blues Crew. As a heads up, Tiger Creek Road becomes Forest Service Road 65 (NF-65).

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

  • Your Public Lands

    Umatilla National Forest (Walla Walla Ranger District)

  • Distance:

    Within 1.5 Hours

  • Difficulty Level:

    Day Tripper

  • Seasons:

    Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter

  • Elevation:

    2,400 - 2,700 feet

  • Pets:

    Yes

  • Reservations:

    N/A

  • ADA:

    No

  • Multi-Use:

    No

  • Motorized Vehicles :

    No

  • Fees

    None

  • Permits

    None required to park or utilize the trail.

  • Regulations

    None other than being good stewards of the land!

  • Amenities

    No facilities available at the trail or immediate area.

  • 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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