Yakima River Greenway multi-use path

The Yakima River Greenway is generally considered easy, making it suitable for a wide range of users. It features a wide, paved surface with a mostly flat elevation profile, as it runs through the Yakima River floodplain. While the terrain is smooth, some sections may have seams in the asphalt that could be noticeable, particularly for cyclists using skinny road tires.

The Yakima River Greenway stretches approximately 20 to 22.9 miles, connecting the communities of Union Gap, Yakima, Selah, and Naches. Its length makes it ideal for longer rides or walks, with various access points allowing for shorter excursions.

Key access points with parking include Sarg Hubbard Park, the Yakima Area Arboretum, and the Historic Naches Train Depot. Other trailheads can be found at the E. Valley Mall Boulevard terminus in Union Gap and Chesterley Park in Yakima. Parking can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and during peak seasons, so arriving earlier in the day is often recommended.

Absolutely! The Greenway is very family-friendly. Its wide, paved, and mostly flat surface is excellent for strollers, tricycles, and young cyclists. Along its length, you'll find access to playgrounds, picnic areas, and fishing lakes, providing plenty of opportunities for breaks and diverse activities for all ages.

Yes, the Yakima River Greenway is dog-friendly. Leashed dogs are welcome on the path. Please remember to clean up after your pet to help keep the Greenway enjoyable for everyone.

Given its wide, paved, and generally flat surface, the Yakima River Greenway is largely wheelchair accessible. The smooth asphalt makes it suitable for wheelchairs, mobility scooters, and adaptive bicycles. Some restrooms along the route are described as outhouse style, so accessibility for those facilities may vary.

While spring and fall offer the most comfortable conditions, the Yakima River Greenway can be used in winter. However, visitors should be prepared for colder temperatures and potentially icy or snowy patches, especially after precipitation. The path is not always cleared immediately after snowfall, so traction may be reduced. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.

For a comfortable bike ride, consider bringing water, snacks, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), and appropriate layers of clothing. While the path is paved, a spare tube and a small pump are always good to have. If you're using skinny road tires, be aware of potential seams in the asphalt. Restrooms are available, but some are outhouse style, so hand sanitizer is a good idea.

The Greenway connects several communities, including Yakima, Union Gap, Selah, and Naches, so there are various amenities accessible from different points. You'll find cafes, restaurants, and shops in the nearby towns. Specific access points like Sarg Hubbard Park and the Yakima Area Arboretum are often close to urban areas where services are readily available.

The Greenway is an excellent spot for wildlife viewing. You can often spot a variety of birds, including bald eagles, songbirds, waterfowl, geese, ducks, kingfishers, and great blue herons. The river environment also supports other small animals. Early mornings or late afternoons are often the best times for wildlife observation.

While the Yakima River Greenway is primarily an out-and-back path, its extensive length and numerous access points allow for customized routes. You can plan shorter loops by utilizing connecting streets in urban areas or by simply turning around at any point. For specific natural immersion, consider exploring the Poppoff Nature Trail or the YWCA Human Spirit Nature Trail, which branch off the main Greenway.