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Walla Walla County

Walla Walla

The best walks and hikes around Walla Walla

5.0

(2)

13

hikers

5

hikes

Hiking around Walla Walla offers a diverse range of landscapes, from the rolling Palouse Hills to the foothills of the Blue Mountains. The region is characterized by pristine forests, open meadows, and several waterways like Mill Creek and the Walla Walla River. Trails often wind along riverbanks, through forested areas, and around Bennington Lake, providing varied terrain for outdoor exploration.

Best hiking trails around Walla Walla

  • The most popular hiking route is Whitman Mission Trail, a 1.0 mile (1.7 km) trail that takes 25 minutes to complete. This easy path offers historical insights and picturesque valley views.
  • Another top favourite among local hikers is Return Canal Loop, an easy 1.5 miles (2.4 km) path. This route follows a canal, providing a flat and accessible walking experience.
  • Local hikers also love the Kingfisher Trail: Lions Park and Rooks Park, a 2.5 miles (4.0 km) trail leading through parkland and along Mill Creek, often completed in about 1 hour 5 minutes.
  • Hiking around Walla Walla is defined by rolling hills, riverine paths, and forested trails. The network offers options for different ability levels, from leisurely walks to more extended treks.
  • The routes in Walla Walla are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 5.0 stars from 2 reviews. More than 10 hikers have used komoot to explore Walla Walla's varied terrain.

Last updated: April 26, 2026

3

hikers

#1.

Whitman Mission Trail

1.68km

00:27

20m

20m

Easy 1.0-mile hike at Whitman Mission National Historic Site, offering historical insights and views of the Walla Walla Valley.

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Easy

2.39km

00:37

20m

20m

Hike the easy 1.5-mile Return Canal Loop in Mill Creek Recreation Area, offering scenic canal views and a chance to spot wildlife.

Easy
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Enjoy an easy 2.5-mile hike on the Kingfisher Trail, connecting Lions Park and Rooks Park, with waterside views and diverse scenery.

Easy

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

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Popular around Walla Walla

Road Cycling Routes around Walla Walla

Cycling around Walla Walla

Tips from the Community

Tyler Sanders
February 10, 2024, Diversion Canal

This area serves to aid in flood prevention and offers a pleasant view, especially after rainfall. A well-maintained hard-packed dirt trail encircles the area, featuring a gradual incline change.

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Alex
February 7, 2024, Bennington Lake

Situated about two miles east of Walla Walla, Bennington Lake is a great recreation spot. It was previously called Mill Creek Reservoir. It spans over 50 acres and is fishable all year. Bennington Lake has a boat launch, multi-use trails, and scenic views.

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Alex
December 27, 2023, Bennington Lake

Situated about two miles east of Walla Walla, Bennington Lake is a great recreation spot. It was previously called Mill Creek Reservoir. It spans over 50 acres and is fishable all year. Bennington Lake has a boat launch, multi-use trails, and scenic views.

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Alex
December 27, 2023, Diversion Canal

Diversion Canal is a short, covered canal with Whitetail Trail on one side and Meadowlark Trail on the other. Both trails are packed with gravel and bike-friendly.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many hiking trails are available around Walla Walla?

While komoot features 5 curated hiking routes, the broader Walla Walla region, especially within the Blue Mountains and around Bennington Lake, offers hundreds of miles of trails for exploration. The Blue Mountain Trail System alone spans 530 miles, providing a vast network of paths.

Are there easy hiking trails suitable for beginners or casual walkers?

Yes, Walla Walla is excellent for easy walks. All 5 routes on komoot are rated as easy. For example, the Whitman Mission Trail offers a gentle, accessible path through a historic site. Bennington Lake also provides over 20 miles of trails perfect for leisurely strolls, such as the Whitetail Trail and Meadowlark Trail.

What are some good options for family-friendly hikes?

Many trails in Walla Walla are great for families. The Whitman Mission Trail is a gentle, accessible option with historical context. The Mill Creek Recreation Trail, which connects to the Bennington Lake system, is paved and convenient for walking and biking with children. Fort Walla Walla City Park also features a 70-acre wildlife preserve with streams and trails, including a 'Planet Walk' that can be engaging for kids.

Are there any dog-friendly hiking trails in the area?

Yes, many trails around Walla Walla welcome dogs. Bennington Lake is a popular dog-friendly spot, offering a variety of trails that traverse rolling hills and meadows. Always remember to keep your dog on a leash and clean up after them to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone.

Can I find loop hikes or circular routes in Walla Walla?

Absolutely. The Return Canal Loop is a great example of a circular route available on komoot. Bennington Lake also features a popular 5.8-mile loop trail, offering serene water views and opportunities for birdwatching. Additionally, the Bennington Lake – Diversion Canal loop and Diversion Canal – Bennington Lake loop provide longer circular options starting from Walla Walla Community College.

What kind of natural features or attractions can I expect to see on the trails?

Walla Walla's trails offer diverse scenery. You can expect to see rolling hills, lush forests, and expansive meadows, especially in the foothills of the Blue Mountains. Trails along Mill Creek and the Walla Walla River provide peaceful riverside views. Bennington Lake offers serene water vistas and is excellent for birdwatching. The South Fork Walla Walla River Trail is known for its rushing waters, towering cliffs, and vibrant wildflowers.

Are there any trails that feature waterfalls?

While a bit further afield, Palouse Falls State Park offers spectacular waterfall hikes and impressive views of Palouse Falls, a designated state waterfall. It's a worthwhile destination for those seeking a more dramatic natural feature.

What is the best time of year to go hiking in Walla Walla?

Walla Walla enjoys approximately 260 days of sunshine annually, making it possible to hike almost year-round. Spring and summer are ideal for wildflowers and lush greenery, while autumn brings beautiful fall colors. Even winter offers opportunities for trails like the Andies Prairie Trail, which is beautiful as a snow trail.

Are there any historical sites accessible via hiking trails?

Yes, the Whitman Mission Trail takes you through the Whitman Mission National Historic Site, where you can combine a leisurely walk with exploring an important historical area. You can even see ruts from the Oregon Trail there, offering a unique blend of history and outdoor activity.

What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Walla Walla?

The komoot community rates hiking in Walla Walla highly, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the region's diverse landscapes, from serene lake loops to historical paths, and the accessibility of trails for all skill levels. The pleasant climate and opportunities for wildlife spotting are also frequently highlighted.

Are there any trails that offer panoramic views?

Yes, the Blue Mountains provide numerous opportunities for panoramic views. The Andies Prairie Trail, located in the Blue Mountains, is ideal for those seeking pure wilderness, featuring open meadows, dense forests, and stunning vistas. Additionally, the Umatilla Rim Trail, particularly the Nine Mile Ridge Trail, offers magnificent views of the North Fork Umatilla Wilderness.

Are there any trails near rivers or creeks?

Several trails in Walla Walla follow waterways. The Kingfisher Trail runs along Mill Creek, offering peaceful riverside scenery. The South Fork Walla Walla River Trail provides an immersive experience along the river, known for its rushing waters. West Tiger Creek, a feeder to Mill Creek, also features tree-covered trails and a cool creek, accessible year-round.

Most popular routes around Walla Walla

Easy hikes around Walla Walla

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