Six Reasons to Love the Rivers
Spend some time along the three rivers winding through the Tri-Cities—the Yakima, Snake and Columbia—and we’re sure you’ll agree with American poet Jim Harrison: You can’t be unhappy in the middle of a big, beautiful river.
In the Tri-Cities, water really is life. It irrigates the fresh, tasty fruits and veggies we pick up at the farmers market, it helps generate clean energy and jobs, and it provides ample opportunity for recreation and leisure. If you’re looking for ways to enjoy the area’s biggest natural resource, we’re here to help. Here are six ways to relax along the Tri-Cities’ riverways.
If you’re not feeling up to powering a paddleboard, get someone else to do the work for you! We love Water2Wine cruises for gorgeous river views, good food, and of course, a little (…or big!) glass of red.
Hit up the Market at the Parkway for all your picnic essentials—bread, berries, cheese—then head over to Clover Island Marina. The Marina is a perfect spot to throw down a blanket, enjoy your treats, and take in a stunning Tri-City sunset.
Roundtrip, it’s a total of 20 miles of flat, paved paths. Start at Clover Island, then zip off the trail and stop at LU LU Craft Bar + Kitchen near Columbia Point for a brew and a bite on their waterfront patio.
The rivers around the Tri-Cities are popular spots for salmon, steelhead, walleye, and bass fishing. Go shore fishing with your own equipment, or enlist the help of local experts like Munden’s Rising Son Adventures and DownUnder Sport Fishing.
This year marks the first ever RiverFest—a celebration of all the benefits of our rivers and hydrosystem. Held at the east end of Columbia Park, it’ll include food, entertainment and family-friendly, interactive exhibits. Join the fun this Saturday, September 8 from 11 a.m.–3 p.m.