The best walks and hikes around Kennewick

The Chamna, Red Tail and River Trail Loop offers a delightful and accessible journey through the Chamna Natural Preserve, transitioning from arid shrub-steppe with towering old-growth sagebrush to lush riparian zones along the Yakima River. You'll enjoy picturesque river views and sections winding through a mystical, shadowy canopy, providing a sense of seclusion despite its urban proximity. This easy 3.3-mile (5.4 km) hike, with only 19 feet (6 metres) of elevation gain, is perfect for a relaxed outing, taking about 1 hour and 21 minutes to complete.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the preserve is open year-round for hikers, bikers, equestrians, and birdwatchers. Be aware that the River and Peninsula Loop trails are susceptible to seasonal flooding, particularly during late winter and early spring, so it's wise to check conditions if you're visiting then. The flat landscape also makes it a great spot for cross-country skiing or snowshoeing if there's sufficient snow in colder months.

This trail is part of the Great Washington State Birding Trail Sun and Sage Loop, making it an exceptional destination for birdwatching, with over 200 species recorded in the region. Beyond birds, you might spot black-tailed jackrabbits, river otters, deer, and coyotes, adding to the preserve's unique appeal as a "wilderness in the middle of a city." It's an ideal family-friendly hike for those seeking an easy, nature-filled escape.

The Badger Skyline Trail offers a rewarding experience with diverse terrain and expansive views, making it a popular choice for a quick escape. You'll hike on a 3.5-foot-wide path of crushed rock and gravel, winding through sagebrush and dryland grasses. The route provides panoramic vistas of the Tri-Cities, the Columbia and Yakima Rivers, and even distant mountains like Rattlesnake Mountain on clear days. Expect a consistent, though not overly steep, incline as you make your way up Badger Mountain, with the first half-mile covering much of the 751 feet (229 metres) of elevation gain.

Planning your visit to the Badger Skyline Trail is straightforward, as no passes or permits are required. The trail is accessible year-round, but spring is particularly vibrant with wildflowers like yellow balsamroot. While the 3.3-mile (5.2 km) hike typically takes around 1 hour and 41 minutes, it's wise to carry water, especially in warmer months, and be aware that rattlesnakes have been sighted. The trailhead offers convenient parking, making it easy to start your adventure.

This easy route is part of the larger Badger Mountain trail network, offering various Badger Skyline Trail hiking options for different fitness levels. Along the way, you'll find informative signs detailing the geological impact of the Missoula Floods, which shaped the unique landscape of the region. Near the summit, communication towers serve as a clear landmark, and the varied microclimates you pass through add to the trail's appeal.

The Chamna Natural Preserve outer loop offers a wonderfully diverse landscape, transitioning from arid shrub-steppe to vibrant wetland and riparian zones along the Yakima River. You'll find sections winding through a "shadowy, lush canopy," providing a cool, secluded feel, while other parts open up to views of the river habitat. It's a gentle 4.2-mile (6.8 km) hike with only 34 feet (10 metres) of elevation gain, making it a perfect, easy outing for about 1 hour and 42 minutes.

Planning your trip is simple, as the preserve is open year-round for hikers, cyclists, and equestrians. While the outer loop is generally well-maintained, be mindful that some of the lower-lying trails, particularly those closer to the river, can experience seasonal flooding in late winter and early spring. There's ample parking available, and informational signage helps you identify local flora and fauna.

This preserve is a true gem for wildlife enthusiasts, especially birdwatchers, as it's part of the Great Washington State Birding Trail and home to over 200 bird species. Beyond birds, you might spot black-tailed jackrabbits, river otters, or deer. The area also holds traces of its past as farmland, with remnants of old crops and an irrigation system, adding a layer of historical interest to your walk.

Winding through Kennewick's Zintel Canyon, the Spirit of America Trail offers a delightful and easy hiking experience. You'll traverse a mix of crushed gravel, dirt, and paved paths, surrounded by lush trees and the gentle sound of a small creek. This 2.7-mile (4.3 km) route, with its minimal 96 feet (29 metres) of elevation gain, is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in nature, observe local birds and small animals, and enjoy the canyon's scenic beauty.

Planning your visit is simple, with convenient parking available at two main entrances. The trail is very family-friendly and dog-friendly, making it an ideal outing for everyone. While the main path is well-maintained, be mindful that some wooded sections can be a bit tighter or overgrown, and areas near the creek might get muddy or flood seasonally, so check conditions if there's been recent rain.

This trail is a highlight of the Zintel Canyon Greenway, offering a peaceful natural escape within an urban setting. You can complete the main route in about 1 hour and 7 minutes, or extend your adventure by connecting with an adjacent footpath to form a longer 2.5-mile loop. It's a great option for a quick, refreshing walk or a leisurely exploration of local flora and fauna.

The Sacagawea Heritage Trail offers a delightful, easy hike along the Columbia River, perfect for a leisurely outing. This 2.3-mile (3.6 km) paved route features expansive river views, passing through open parkland and natural shoreline. You can spot birds and wildlife around the Yakima River Delta, making it a scenic and engaging walk for about 54 minutes with only 15 feet (5 metres) of elevation gain.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail is easily accessible from various points in the Tri-Cities. It connects to several city parks, providing convenient amenities like restrooms, picnic areas, and shaded spots. The flat, multi-use path is suitable for all ages and abilities, making it a great option for a casual stroll any time of year.

Beyond its scenic beauty, the Sacagawea Heritage Trail is rich in historical context, named after the famous guide of the Lewis and Clark Expedition. Interpretive signs, known as "Pompy's Lessons," are dotted along the route, offering insights into the region's past. The trail also forms part of a larger 23-mile (37 km) loop connecting the three Tri-Cities, highlighting its importance as a regional connector.