Yakima Greenway | Yakima

Information

Landmark: Yakima Greenway
City: Yakima
Country: USA Washington
Continent: North America

Yakima Greenway, Yakima, USA Washington, North America

The Yakima Greenway is a 25-mile paved trail system traversing the Yakima River corridor in Yakima, Washington. It connects multiple parks and natural areas within the city limits.

Visual Characteristics

The trail is primarily asphalt, averaging 10 feet in width. It follows the natural contours of the Yakima River, with sections bordered by riparian vegetation including cottonwood trees and willows. Open grassy areas and some gravel paths are present in park sections. The river itself is typically a brown or greenish-brown color, depending on recent rainfall and snowmelt.

Location & Access Logistics

The Greenway can be accessed from numerous points throughout Yakima. The main access point is near Sarg Hubbard Park, located at 1115 S. 18th Ave, approximately 2 miles south of downtown Yakima. Parking is available at Sarg Hubbard Park and other designated trailheads. Public transport options include Yakima Transit bus routes 3 and 4, which stop near the southern end of the Greenway.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The Yakima Greenway was developed starting in the 1970s as a project to reclaim and enhance the river corridor. It is an ecological zone supporting local wildlife, including various bird species and small mammals. The river is a vital water source for agriculture in the Yakima Valley.

Key Highlights & Activities

Activities include walking, jogging, cycling, and rollerblading on the paved trails. Birdwatching is common in riparian areas. Fishing is permitted in designated sections of the Yakima River. Kayaking and paddleboarding are possible on calmer stretches of the river, particularly during summer months.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available at Sarg Hubbard Park and Franklin Park. Shade is provided by mature trees along many sections of the trail. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally consistent throughout the Greenway. Food vendors are not typically present directly on the trail, but are available in nearby commercial areas.

Best Time to Visit

For photography, early morning or late afternoon light offers optimal conditions. The best months for pleasant weather are April through October. High tide is not a relevant factor for trail access. River flow can vary significantly, impacting water activities.

Facts & Legends

A specific section of the Greenway is known locally as the "Whispering Pines" trail, named for the sound the wind makes through a dense stand of Ponderosa pines. This area is often cited as a good spot for observing deer in the early morning.