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Scenic Driving Tour of Three Washington State Mountain Passes

Sunday, May 19th, 2013
Update: Chinook Pass opened early on May 17, 2013. Expect Winter driving conditions check WSDOT for updates.
This road trip is a 3 1/2 hour circle drive from the Yakima Valley over three scenic mountain passes, White Pass Scenic Byway Hwy 12, Cayuse Pass Hwy 123, Chinook Pass Hwy 410.  Expect the most spectacular scenery in Washington State. The Cascade Mountain Range is a relatively young mountain range of basalt rock, steep and forested.  High meadows and passes in the mountain range are at 5,000 and 6,000 feet.

Description of the driving tour: You will be driving White Pass Scenic Byway first, Cayuse Pass, and then the Chinook Pass Scenic Byway. There are endless alternative side trips and activities, including hiking, climbing, photography, and camping, as well as short walks to scenic attractions. Starting in Yakima, on I-82 West, to Hwy 12 west, 20 miles following the Naches or “White Pass”  to the junction of Hwy.12 and Hwy. 410.

McIlrath Fruit Stand at the intersection of Hwy 12 and Old Naches Hwy and offers a variety of valley farm fresh fruit and produce.  In approximately 10 miles reach the town of Naches. Thompsons Farm Market offers local farm fresh produce, their own family farm grown tree ripened fruit and gifts, wine and wine tasting. 

At the junction of Hwy 12 and Hwy 410, turn left onto White Pass Hwy 12.  Immediately on your left, view the spectacular Tieton extruded rock formations known as Royal Columns, popular with rock climbers. There is hiking and mountain biking trail called the Tieton Nature Trail.  On your right (north) is the Oak Creek Game Range, a very large wildlife management area operated by the State Department of Wildlife.  This is an attraction during winter months when large numbers of elk are feed and an interpretative center with information on the local wildlife.

Proceeding up Hwy. 12,  view volcanic rock formations, a rapid change in vegetation from sagebrush to the alpine firs at the summit.

Bordering the road on the south is the Tieton River, is a major rafting attraction during the month of September, . when large amount of water is released from the dam at Rimrock Lake to irrigate the vineyards and orchards in the Yakima Valley.  This release of water is called The Tieton River Flip Flop by the locals.
Rimrock Lake, behind the Rimrock Dam is a summer recreation area with boat launches, beaches, camping and cabins.The Rimrock Dam, built in 1925 to serve the Yakima-Tieton Irrigation Project, was the largest earth-filled dam in the world at that time.

You will cross The Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail, just before the summit at White Pass Ski Area.
Once over the summit at White Pass, look south for a spectacular view of the Goat Rocks, and a scenic viewpoint for Mt. Rainier. The highway descends along the bank of the deep cleft Clear Fork of the Cowlitz River, originating at the Cowlitz Glacier on Mt Rainier.
At about 61 miles from the junction of Hwy 12 and 410 there is a viewpoint for The Palisades, a spectacular showing of tall rock columns. Look for the signs announcing this viewpoint on the downhill (left) side of the road. There is a nice pull off from the highway here with picnic tables. In 2.5 miles, turn right from White Pass Hwy 12 onto Hwy.123, Cayuse Pass and the Ohanapecosh Campground. Vegetation is thick, near rain forest ecosystem with very large trees. Going straight, instead of turning onto Hwy 123  takes you to the city of  Packwood with groceries, restaurants, gas and lodging at the Crest Trail Lodge.

Ohanepecosh Campground and Visitor Center, a Mt. Rainier National Park campground is a favorite because of its large trees and location along the Ohanepecosh River. Pronounced like, “Oh Hannah by gosh”. There is a visitor’s center with detailed information on Mt.Rainer and the park.
 

Continue on Highway 123 for 11 miles to the junction with Hwy. 410. Turn right to Chinook Pass. The Chinook Pass Scenic Byway is generally open by Memorial Day, and usually remains open through October. . The steep highway jumps rapidly up the switchbacks as you quickly enter a zone of sub-alpine vegetation. Peak flower blooms are in late July and August. It is  3 miles to Tipso Lake parking area and another 1/2 mile to the parking area on the east side just past the footbridge, which is part of  the Pacific Crest Trail. There are many hiking options in this area.  One short trip offering beautiful photo opportunities is the Naches Peak Loop Trail at the top of Chinook Pass. Further down the Chinook Scenic Byway closer to the hamlet of Cliffdell is the Boulder Cave Hike.

In Cliffdell stop at  Whistlin’ Jacks Lodge (milepost 96.1)  for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or an overnight stay in one of the cottages along the Naches River.

At milepost 108.6 there is a new section of road due to a massive landslide which covered the highway and altered the course of the Naches River.  Looking north one can see the scar the landslide on the hill. Further down the road is the Woodshed Restaurant at Eagle Rock Resort , offering breakfast, lunch, dinner, a lounge, and camping.
At the junction of Hwy 410 and Hwy 12, continue straight toward the cities of Naches and Yakima.   

For more information on Hikes along this route:

Naches Ranger District Hiking Trails
White Pass Scenic Byway Hiking Map
Mt Rainier Hiking Trails

The Yakima Valley blog articles feature members of the Yakima Valley Visitors and Convention Bureau. If you would like to receive information regarding membership, Click here, or to request a membership application, please contact Michele Hopkins at (509) 575-3010.

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Celebrate at Sneak Peek to Spring Barrel

Tuesday, April 2nd, 2013

The Yakima Valley Visitor Information Center (VIC) celebrates 10 years of serving visitors to the Yakima Valley in 2013. Built in 2003, with the vision to promote the Yakima Valley’s growing wine country, the Visitor Center has become the first stop for information on lodging, restaurants, activities and events.

One of the events during this year long celebration, “Sneak Peek to Spring Barrel,” will be April 11, 2013, at Le Chateau.  Wine Diva’s will be hosting this event.  Come enjoy local wine tasting, live music, Hors D’Oeuvers, Spring fashions, shopping, raffle prizes and more. This is an all lady, 21 and over event. The Visitor Center will be offering a Gift Bag valued at $25 with every ticket. The gift bag will include 4 wine tasting coupons, to be used anytime during the evening, a glass of wine, a lite-up wine glass, Washington Wine Country Coasters; It’s All about the Pretzels, Spring Barrel Wine Tasting winery information, coupons and so much more. Tickets to the event are $30. Visit the Yakima Valley’s beautiful Tuscan style Visitor Center for your tickets.

The Yakima Valley Visitor Center provides information covering the Yakima Valley, most cities in Washington State, plus Oregon, Idaho, Montana.  In 2006 the gift shop was added featuring local Yakima Valley made products and artwork, souvenirs plus specialty gift items.  In 2011 the gift shop expanded its selection of local wines for purchase and began offering wine tasting 4 premiums Yakima Valley wines with the purchase of a $5.00 Govino wine glass.

The Yakima Valley Visitor Center is located across the street from Target Store at 101 North Fair Ave. Exit 33 off I-82. (map)

Come celebrate with us.

 

The Yakima Valley blog articles feature members of the Yakima Valley Visitors and Convention Bureau. If you would like to receive information regarding membership, Click here, or to request a membership application, please contact Michelle Hopkins at (509) 575-3010.

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Spring Barrel Tasting in Yakima Valley Washington

Tuesday, March 26th, 2013

Spring Barrel Tasting is a festive event.  It’s the largest wine festival in Washington’s wine country, a celebration of spring, release of new wines and a peek at the warm summer months ahead. The winemakers and staff are on hand to mingle with visitors, conduct tours and answer questions. Most open a barrel or two of future vintages for sampling. Many wineries have live music, appetizers and present a festive mood. As the event grows and more wineries come on line, a little pre-planning helps to best enjoy the festivities.

Here are a few tips to help make the celebration fun for all:

  • It’s social so be social: Gather friends and get a limo or join an organized tour. It’s best to plan at least one night stay. For a listing of local spring lodging packages in the Yakima Valley. click here.
  • Take responsibility: If you do not hire a professional driver, designate a non-drinking driver. And treat the designated driver like a king or queen by buying their lunch and a bottle or two to enjoy at a later time. Note: Even if you have a designated driver, the tasting room staff is not allowed to serve you if you are impaired… it’s the law.
  • Get the scoop: Wineries and wine organizations have different dates, the offerings and fees (or no fees).  Before you arrive, visit the wine association websites for the details on their offerings and programs. Visit Wine Yakima Valley and the Rattlesnake Hills Wine Trail websites for the details (see below for their contact information and websites).  The 2013 dates for this event are: The Rattlesnake Hills Wine Trail Spring Barrel Tasting, April 20 and 21.  The Wine Yakima Valley Spring Barrel Tasting, April 26-28, 2013.
  • Timing is everything: Friday and Sunday tend to be quieter so visit on those days.
  • Do it differently: Go to wineries early and in the opposite direction as everyone else is traveling. Many folks start at one end of the Yakima Valley and head to the other so consider starting with wineries in the middle of the map.
  • Be realistic: It’s not a marathon race. Visit no more than 4-5 wineries per day. Your taste pallet will grow numb.
  • Be prepared: Bring a cooler filled with bottled water and snacks. Pack a picnic, as many of the Yakima Valley wineries have picnic grounds or plan on eating lunch at one of the wineries that will be serving food. A good meal helps you to regain your palate and provides a needed break. Plus, bring a wine glass per person or be prepared to purchase one at a winery. Wine glasses are required at most wineries during event weekends. Also, if it is warm, consider a cooler for your purchased wines. Heat is bad for wine.
  • Try something new: Tasting from the barrel is very different then trying a finished product out of a bottle. Talk to the winemaker and staff. Ask about the flavor, process and how the wine will taste when finished. It’s a great time to gain a greater appreciation of the wine-making process.
  • Be Patient: The weekend draws a lot of people and staff at the wineries are working as fast as they can.
  • Be Respectful…of other tasters and the staff. Try not to get too pushy or grouchy. Everyone is having fun and there are just a lot of people.
  • Be aware: When it is busy in the tasting room, it’s important that you step up to the bar and receive your taste, then step back and take your time smelling and tasting the wine. This allows others up to the bar to get a taste. In other words, don’t monopolize the bar space in front of others who are trying to participate.
  • Don’t wear it: 70 to 80% of our ability to perceive flavor comes from our sense of smell. So please do not wear perfume, cologne, aftershave or any other fragrance, as it interferes with everyone’s ability to smell, and hence taste the wines. You should also refrain from chewing gum and breath mints.
  • Spitting and dumping is good: Just because wine is in your glass doesn’t mean you should drink it all. Believe it or not, you will enjoy it more if you don’t drink every drop. Your mouth won’t fatigue, you won’t become as intoxicated, and you will have more fun. Dumping excess wine into the provided bucket is okay. If you like the wine, buy a bottle or two.
  • Leave it outside: All alcohol from outside the winery being visited is not permitted. This means beer, bloody Mary’s, screwdrivers, mimosas, cosmos, etc. The wineries can actually lose their license if there is outside alcohol brought into their facilities.
  • Have pets? Kids? Children are always welcome at the wineries, but the crowds and focus of the event may not be suited to them. And while a many wineries are dog friendly, for this event it’s best to leave the pups at home. For resources on traveling with your dog visit our website winedoggies.com
  • Buy-buy! No that is not a typo, it’s an encouragement to buy wine during the event. The wineries spend a lot of time and their resources to stage a great weekend. Show your gratitude by buying wine for another day. They’ll appreciate the business, and you’ll take home some premium wines, many of which are only available at the winery itself.

Twitter fans! Stay in touch with others during Spring Barrel events- use the hash tags #WAwine and #springbarrel

Resources to plan your trip:

For details on the wineries and their offerings, visit the Yakima Valley’s winery associations.
Policies may vary from winery to winery.

 

  • Winery Association of Yakima –Downtown Yakima and Naches Heights wineries

       510-719-5345  Facebook Page                                                                                                 

  • Rattlesnake Hills Wine Trail
    509-965-4521 or 888-375-7498
    http://www.rattlesnakehills.org/
    info@rattlesnakehills.com
  • Wine Yakima Valley
    509-965-5201
    http://www.wineyakimavalley.org
    wineyakimavalley@msn.comThe Yakima Valley blog articles feature members of the Yakima Valley Visitors and Convention Bureau. If you would like to receive information regarding membership, Click here, or to request a membership application, please contact Michele Hopkins at (509) 575-3010.
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Take the White Pass Scenic Byway to the Yakima Valley

Tuesday, January 29th, 2013

The White Pass Scenic Byway is a 2 1/2 hour scenic drive to the Yakima Valley from the west. The 124 mile long byway offers access to The Gifford Pinchot and Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forests and Mount Rainier National Park, Mt. St. Helens National Monument and Mount Adams Wilderness Area.

Starting from Portland or Seattle take I-5 exit 68, to Mary’s Corner, the beginning of the byway.  You will pass the communities of Randle, Morton and Packwood before reaching the summit and the White Pass Ski Area  at an elevation of 4500ft. Take the time to stop and enjoy the many viewpoints and scenic overlooks along the way.

Continuing to Yakima, you will pass Rimrock Lake Reservoir, the Tieton River, known for Class 3 whitewater rafting in season and the Oak Creek Wildlife Area, where elk herds are fed in the winter.

There are numerous opportunities for recreation including; hiking, boating, fishing, wildlife viewing, skiing, swimming, rock climbing and white water rafting along the byway. You will find many choices for accommodations and camping on the White Pass Scenic Byway as you make your way to the Yakima Valley.

From the lush vegetation of western Washington, over the mountain and forest pass to the desert climate of the Yakima Valley, this drive offers views of a diverse and changing landscape.

 

Thank you White Pass Scenic Byway and Destination Packwood for supporting the Yakima Valley Visitor Information Center as a Diamond Sponsor. The Yakima Valley Visitor Information Center: Celebrating 10 years of serving travelers to the Yakima Valley in 2013. 

The Yakima Valley blog articles feature members of the Yakima Valley Visitors and Convention Bureau. If you would like to receive information regarding membership, Click here, or to request a membership application, please contact Michelle Hopkins at (509) 575-3010.

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Posted in Accommodations, Biking, fishing, Guesthouses, Hiking, Hotels, Nature, Outdoors, Recreation, Restaurants, Scenic Drives, Skiing, snowmobiling, Uncategorized, vacation rental homes, whitewater rafting | No Comments »

Lets all go out for Breakfast, then Holiday Shopping!

Monday, November 26th, 2012

December is a busy month with shopping for gifts, baking Christmas cookies, cakes and pies, cleaning the house and entertaining family coming into town. Take some time to slow down and visit with the family before you start your day.  The Yakima Valley has the breakfast spot to appeal to any taste; from charming to rustic, you will find the perfect spot listed below.

Consider a Sunday family brunch at a beautiful winery, either Naches Heights Vineyard in Naches Heights or Desert Wind Winery in Prosser, then go Christmas shopping.

Sunday Brunch at a Winery:

  • Naches Heights Vineyard:  11am to 3pm.  Rotating menu of breakfast items, all served with rosemary baby reds and fresh fruit.
  • Desert Wind Winery: MOJAVE Restaurant at Desert Wind Winery currently offers seating’s from 11am to 5pm on Sunday (brunch/lunch menu available). Reservations are recommended for all groups over six guests (pictured).

Sunday Brunch

  • 2nd Street Grill: Sunday brunch 10am to 3pm in addition to regular menu offerings such as omelets, eggs Benedict, banana nut waffles, French toast, biscuits and gravy and more.
  • The Apple Tree Grill: Sunday Brunch Buffet 9am to 1pm in addition to a regular menu.
  • Bob’s Burger and Brews: Sunday Buffet Brunch 9am to 1pm.
  • Whistlin’ Jack Lodge: Sunday Buffet Brunch served in the lounge from 9am to 11am in addition to regular menu offerings. Christmas morning breakfast is served and Chef Scotty’s “Champagne Morning” omelet bar is available 9am to 11:30am.

Charming Breakfast:

  • White House Café: A special gathering place for girlfriends, mothers and daughters looking for an out-of-the-ordinary dining experience. Features gourmet country fare of home-baked breads and pastries, fresh Yakima Valley produce, and locally roasted coffee in a charming environment. Serving breakfast Monday through Friday from 8am to 10:30am, Saturday 9am to 10:30am, and Sunday from 9am to 2pm (pictured).

Breakfast with a View:

  • The Apple Tree Grill: From the traditional egg breakfasts to wonderful country and garden lovers omelets to Eggs Benedict, the menu has all the favorites and more – all with the beautiful view of the apple shaped island on the17th green of the Apple Tree Golf Course amid the rolling terrain of 100 year-old orchards. This is an unforgettable location to start your day. Breakfast served daily 8am to 11am and Sunday Brunch Buffets 9am to 1pm.
  • Whistlin’ Jack Lodge: The place to relax in the woods and enjoy the view of the Naches River on State Route 410. Breakfast served daily in a country lodge setting. Try the applewood smoked bacon and eggs or be adventurous with the pan fried mountain rainbow trout. Whistlin’ Jack offers an exceptional Sunday breakfast buffet from 9am to 11am.

Diners & Home Cookin’:

  • Mel’s Diner: A 50′s style diner, Yakima icon, open 24 hours, where the locals and musicians go after hours for breakfast. Offering all the favorites: eggs, hash browns, toast , pancakes and more (pictured).
  • Old Town Station: Located in Union Gap near the Valley Mall. Extensive menu of family favorites such as biscuits and gravy and daily breakfast specials. Breakfast served Monday through Saturday 6:30am to 2pm and Sunday’s 7:30am to 2pm.
  • The Woodshed at Eagle Rock Resort: Located on State Route 410. Around since the 1940’s serving the local community and travelers all the traditional breakfast favorites and more! Breakfast served from 8am to Noon.

Breakfast Buffet

  • Old Country Buffet: For as little as $8.09 you can have a breakfast buffet of all your favorites. Located in Union Gap next to Valley Mall. Breakfast served Saturday’s 7:30am to 11am and Sunday’s 7:30am to 10am.

Pancakes Anyone? Pie?

  • Shari’s Restaurant: Northwest family restaurant for family dining. Try one of the $3.99 Fast Start breakfasts, weekdays til 11am, or choose from a great selection of the freshly made pie to go with your morning coffee. Open 24 hours.

Hotels with Restaurants

  • Clarion Hotel: Coffee Garden Restaurant offers breakfast service dining every day from 6am to 10:30am. Full service open til 10pm. Come and sample menu selections that represent cooking styles and regional influences of the Pacific Northwest, Italian and Continental cuisine; with an emphasis on the use of indigenous ingredients from the Yakima Valley.
  • Hilton Garden Inn: The Great American Grill Breakfast Buffet, Monday through Friday 6am to 10am and Sunday 6am to 2pm. All you can eat for $11.95.
  • Red Lion Hotel: Hotel guests enjoy the signature hot Roaring Start Breakfast Buffet which includes various juices, breakfast breads, pancakes, bagels, assorted cereals, yogurt, a signature egg dish, bacon, sausage and breakfast potatoes. This fantastic breakfast buffet is available for purchase at the front desk for $5.95 per guest/$10.95 per non-guest Monday-Friday 6am to 9am and weekends 7am to 10am.
  • Holiday Inn Downtown: 8th Street Bistro is a full service restaurant offering served breakfasts daily from 6am to 11:30 am (pictured).

Morning Coffee and More:  

  • Lincoln Avenue Coffee Co.: Best espresso in town!  Hot coffee, Latte’s, Frappuccino’s, iced drinks, breakfast cookies, and specialty oatmeal.
  • Guerra’s Deli and Cafe/Guerra’s Coffee Co.: The Guerra family would like you to join them for an espresso or non-coffee drink in true coffee house culture.  At Guerra’s Coffee Company enjoy gourmet coffee, ambiance, knowledgeable baristas, free Wi-Fi, comfortable couches, and complimentary newspapers.  Also features pastries from the best bakeries in town.

Updated 11.25.12

The Yakima Valley blog articles feature members of the Yakima Valley Visitors and Convention Bureau. If you would like to receive information regarding membership, Click here, or to request a membership application, please contact Michelle Hopkins at (509) 575-3010.
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Yakima Valley Hotels: Choose Indoor or Outdoor Pools

Monday, June 11th, 2012

Looking for a hotel with an outdoor pool? Indoor pool? These hotels feature pools within walking distance of Downtown Yakima restaurants, wine tasting, Historic District, The Capitol Theatre, and Sunday Farmer’s Market. First Friday Downtown events, as well as special events in Downtown Yakima, such as the Fresh Hop Ale Festival and  Hot Shots 3 on 3 Basketball are all close by.  The Howard Johnson Plaza and the Red Lion  Yakima Center offer outdoor heated pools to enjoy the valley sunshine. The Hilton Garden Inn, Holiday Inn Downtown, Holiday Inn Express, Fairfield Inn & Suites, all feature indoor pools and hot tubs.
Hotels in Yakima, outside of walking distance to downtown but still close, offering seasonal outside pools are the Oxford Inn, Clarion Hotel and Rodeway Inn & Suites. Best Western Lincoln Inn, Oxford Suites and Comfort Suites –Yakima, feature indoor pools and hot tubs.

Birchfield Manor , a bed and breakfast with rooms in the Manor House as well as a separate rooms in another building, offers an outside pool. They also serve gourmet dinners by reservation, Thursday through Sunday and are willing to allow poolside dining with advance notice.

In Union Gap, close to Yakima Valley Mall shopping, restaurants, the Central Washington Agricultural Museum and Skateland Skating Arena, the Best Western PLUS Ahtanum Inn offers an outside pool, and the Super 8 offers an indoor pool and hot tub.

In Zillah, the Comfort Inn Zillah with an outdoor pool is a short drive to the Rattlesnake Hills AVA wineries.

In the city of Sunnyside, The Country Inn & Suites offers an outdoor pool and the Best Western PLUS Grapevine Inn and Rodeway Inn feature indoor pools. These hotels are located in the middle of the Yakima Valley, Washington’s Wine Country.
Prosser’s Best Western PLUS The Inn at Horse Heaven offers and indoor pool, within walking distance of Vintners Village, ahere you can visit over a dozen wineries in seven architecturally beautiful buildings, all in two blocks.

Canyon River Ranch offers and outdoor pool along the Yakima River in the scenic Yakima River Canyon, along Highway 821. The Yakima River is known for its Premier Blue Ribbon Fly Fishing and peaceful scenic natural vistas.

In Ellensburg, the Holiday Inn Express Ellensburg and Quality Inn, 40 minutes north of the Yakima Valley, feature indoor pools.

The Yakima Valley blog articles feature members of the Yakima Valley Visitors and Convention Bureau. If you would like to receive information regarding membership, Click here, or to request a membership application, please contact Michele Hopkins at (509) 575-3010.

Updated  8.3.2011

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What is new in the Yakima Valley for 2012?

Tuesday, December 27th, 2011

The future of the Yakima Valley is so bright you’ll need to wear shades, and that’s not just because of the 300 days of sunshine the valley residents enjoy.

Business owners continue to be confident in the future prosperity of the Yakima Valley, investing millions of dollars in the community. These are a few of the interesting new Valley projects which include developments in the wine industry, restaurant, entertainment, recreation, accommodations and more, providing many new experiences for travelers in 2012.

New American Viticulture Area (AVA ) & New Naches Heights Winery: Naches Heights AVA, will be officially established on January 13, 2012.  This is the first 100% sustainable AVA in the USA, using organic and bio-dynamic growing methods.  Visit this new AVA at Tasting Room Yakima during Red Wine & Chocolate, February 17-19, 2012.  Spring Barrel Tasting, April 20-22,2012, is another popular event to visit the wineries, and experience the new Naches Heights Winery. This new  winery will be a short walk through the vineyards from the Tasting Room Yakima in the new Naches Heights AVA. The building was designed by Barbara Cline, the wife of winery owner, Phil Cline. The building is green certified with radiant floors, utilizes wind energy, built on 7.2 acres with organic and biodynamic vineyards. Be one of the first to visit when they open and hear about all the future plans for the new Naches Heights Winery and  and the Naches Heights AVA.

Legends Casino – New $90 Million Dollar Hotel: Legends Casino in Toppenish, WA is currently building a new 200 room hotel. This $90 million dollar expansion is due to be completed in September 2012.  The hotel will include convention and banquet halls, restaurant, swimming pool, spa, additional slot machines, bingo hall and parking garage. Legends Casino also brings in many entertainment and music acts, making this hotel the ideal place to stay, play, and visit Yakima Valley wine country.

Yakima Theaters builds New $3.5 Million Combination Pub and Theater in Downtown Yakima: Downtown Yakima will soon be home to a $3.5 million, 21-and-older Orion Movie Theater and Micky’s Pub. Yakima Theaters, an 100 year old Yakima business, will open the new venue by Dec.15 2012, with the showing of The Hobbit. The theater will have 3 digital movie screens, leather seats and feature art films, live sports broadcasts and opera and dance cultural events, You will be able to order food and beverages from your seat or dine in the pub without going to a movie. The pub menu will includes pizza, nachos, sliders etc., and feature a full bar.

Barrel Springs Winery & Art Gallery: Barrel Spring Winery and Art Gallery located in Prosser, WA. is an estate vineyard nestled in a park like setting producing Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Cab Franc, Merlot, and a Viognier/Chardonnay blend.   This winery is unique because it  is also an art gallery featuring nationally and internationally acclaimed sculptors Jim Brousseau, Bob Scriver and E.I. Wade, hand thrown pottery  by Sonoma County Raku artist Randy Snyder and one of a kind birdhouses by Jim and Linda Brousseau.

Walter Clore Vineyard Pavilion: Planning a wedding, family reunion, meeting in Yakima Valley Wine Country then consider the new Walter Clore Vineyard Pavillion in Prosser, WA. Opened in spring of 2011, the 2000 square foot Vineyard Pavilion  features a glass-enclosed main room with sliding glass doors opening to two patios and a catering kitchen. The perfect location for your perfect event. Plans are drawn up and fundraising is nearing the goal of 6.3 million needed to build the Walter Clore Wine & Culinary Center, a 15000 Sq foot learning center to promote Washington State wine and food from the abundant agricultural area of the Yakima Valley.

Sunland Vineyards and Guest House : Rediscover the beauty of nature at Sunland Vineyards & Guest House, a simple country guest house open for rental in 2012. play on the spacious lawns, journey to the pond. All of this just 5 miles from the city of Yakima, yet it feels surprisingly remote.


Enjoy these new experiences in 2012, and don’t forget your shades!


The Yakima Valley blog articles feature members of the Yakima Valley Visitors and Convention Bureau. If you would like to receive information regarding membership, Click here, or to request a membership application, please contact Michele Hopkins at (509) 575-3010.

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Thanksgiving in Wine Country – Make “The VIC” Your First Stop

Saturday, November 19th, 2011

Coming to Thanksgiving in Wine Country?  Make the Yakima Valley Visitor Information Center,”The VIC,” your first stop (Exit 33A I-82E). You will need a glass to visit the over 50 wineries participating in this event on November 25 and 26, either bring one from home or purchase one at the visitor center or from the wineries offering glasses for sale.

WINE TASTING PLUS GLASS! The VIC features a 12.75 ounce branded Tanjuli wineglass and tasting of four Tanujuli wines for $6.00. The Tanjuli Wines offered for tasting are ’09 Viognier, ’06 Petit Verdot, ’07 Malbec, and the Late Harvest Orange Muscat. There is a limited supply of glasses.  This past year Tanjuli Winery opened their new Tasting Room in the Zillah, WA in the Rattlesnake Hills AVA.  At the Tanjuli Winery , for Thanksgiving in Wine Country, they will release from the wine library, the 2001 Pinot Noir. The Pinot Noir grapes come from Tom Campbell’s thirty year old vineyards high in the Rocky Mountains of Montana. The concentration of flavor created by this extreme climate has to be experienced.  Tom Campbell, the Tanjuli winemaker/owner, has over 30 years of wine making experience.  Trained at the U.C. Davis School of viticulture, he worked in the California wine industry in the Sonoma Valley, Edna Valley and Temucula. He worked as the enologist at Chateau Ste. Michelle’s Grandview Winery for many years and built and operated Horizons Edge Winery from 1983-1985.
Currently he is the founder and winemaker of Mission Mountain Winery located on the shore of Flathead Lake in Dayton, Montana. In Washington State, he is the Director Of Wine Production for Woodhouse Family Cellars in Woodinville WA. Tom crafted their flagship wine, Darighe ( “red” in Gaelic), a Boudeaux style red in 1998, which lead to the creation of Woodhouse Family Cellars in 2004. Tanjuli Wines are sold only at the winery, the Yakima Valley Visitor Information Center, and special events.

WINE DEAL! For the Thanksgiving in Wine Country Event, the Yakima Valley Visitor Center will offer 20% off Cowan Vineyard Wines: ‘05 Cabernet Franc, ‘05 Cabernet Sauvignon, ‘05 Tartan Red (A blend of 46% Cab Franc 30% Cab Sauvignon & 24% Merlot), and the ‘08 Muscat Canelli.  Cowan Vineyards tasting room is located in the Prosser Food and Wine Park.  They recently opened a new tasting room in Snohomish, WA, as part of the Washington Public Market and Wine Cellars of Washington.  Cowan Vineyards is an Estate Winery growing these grapes, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Gewürztraminer, Merlot, White Reisling, Muscat Canelli and Pinot Gris for their handcrafted wines. You can also book a stay on the Cowan Estate in the middle of Yakima Valley Wine Country. This four bedroom home on a hilltop near Grandview, offers a great view of Mount Adams and Mount Rainier, surrounded by on 65 acres of wine grapes, cherry trees, and hops.

SALE! All gift items at the Yakima Valley Visitor Information Center (pictured) will be 20% off the regular price. There are great stocking stuffers for $10.00 and under, Chukar Cherries, handbags, jewelry, scarves, bling aprons, cookbooks, t-shirts, garden ornaments and flags and much more.  This is a great time to pick up your holiday gift basket items.

The Yakima Valley blog articles feature members of the Yakima Valley Visitors and Convention Bureau. If you would like to receive information regarding membership, Click here, or to request a membership application, please contact Michele Hopkins at (509) 575-3010.

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Posted in Accommodations, Biking, Culinary, Cultural Celebrations, Farm Fresh, fishing, Guesthouses, Hiking, Hotels, Outdoors, Recreation, Restaurants, Scenic Drives, Selah, Uncategorized, vacation rental homes, Washington Wine Country, whitewater rafting, Wineries, Yakima Valley Events | 1 Comment »

Bicycle to 10 mile Greenway Path from Yakima Hotels

Friday, September 2nd, 2011
Coming to the Yakima Valley? Bring your bicycle or rent one to ride the 10 mile paved Yakima Greenway  path running along the Yakima River. This path runs from Yakima Exit 36 off I-82, North to Exit 31 I-82, and west along Highway 12 and the Naches River to the Highway 12/40th Avenue exit. There are plans to continue this paved pathway another 10 miles to the city of Naches.
There are access points for bicyclists along the way and  parking for cars. The information below describes how to get to these points from your hotel room.
For city maps:
Click here shows hotels, park, freeway exits.

Exit 33 I-82 Yakima
Oxford Inn and Oxford Suites: The Yakima River and Greenway Path run directly behind these hotels, which are nearly next door  to each other. You are in the middle of the Greenway’s 10 mile path.

Exit 33 I-82 Downtown Yakima
Hilton Garden Inn, Red Lion Hotel, Holiday Inn Downtown, Howard Johnson’s, Holiday Inn Express, Guest House International:
Proceed to Yakima Avenue. On Yakima Avenue turn to the east toward freeway.
2 options to access the Greenway Path:
1. Go over freeway overpass to access Greenway Path from restaurant parking lot on left if you are riding a bicycle. (Cars parking in this lot will be towed).   With car continue straight at light between two car dealerships, turn right on 18th Street to Sarg Hubbard Park parking lot. Path behind parking lot.  Turn left on path to go toward log play structure, Selah and pathway following Hwy 12. Turn right to reach Sarg Hubbard Park and arboretum.

2. ( Longer) Take Yakima Avenue toward freeway, turn right on Pitcher Street to Fair Avenue turn right on Fair Avenue, turn left on Beech Street which goes under freeway, name changes to Chambers Street,. Turn right on Riverside Street and left onto18th Street. Proceed to Sarg Hubbard Park.


Exit 36 I-82 Union Gap, WA
Super 8 and Quality Inn: Traffic merging, freeway on/off ramps. From hotels turn right onto Valley Mall Blvd, negotiate roundabout near freeway on ramp, go under freeway, straight to parking lot with access to pathway.
Best Western Ahtanum Inn:1 block to Valley Mall Blvd to the south. Negotiate roundabout near freeway on ramp, go under freeway, straight to parking lot with access to pathway.


Exit 33A
This is the Fair Avenue exit. Turn left to reach the Yakima Valley Visitor Information Center. the first building on the left. The visitor center provides city maps, visitor guides and event information. Turn right to reach the  Ledgestone and Fairfield Marriott hotels To access the Greenway Path from these hotels, turn to the left onto Fair Avenue continue under freeway proceed to Beech Street. Turn left on Beech Street which goes under freeway and name changes to Chambers Street,. Turn right on Riverside Street and left onto18th Street. Proceed to Sarge Hubbard Park.  Greenway Path is at top of hill behind parking lot. Turn left on path to reach children’s log play structure, city of Selah, Chesterly Park. Turn right to reach the arboretum.


Exit 31 North 1st Street
Clarion: From Clarion turn right, follow 1st Street to R Street( approx 2 blocks) which leads under the freeway to parking lot with access to Greenway Path.
Best Western Lincoln Inn: Cross 1st Street to R Street, follow under freeway to parking lot adjacent to Greenway Path. Turn left onto Greenway Path to go towards 40th Avenue and Fruitvale Blvd. There is also a branch path over the river toward the city of Selah, WA. Turn right to reach log play structure, Sarge Hubbard Park and arboretum.

40th Avenue Exit Highway 12
Comfort Suites: Proceed to the left on Fruitvale Blvd. to intersection of Fruitvale Blvd and 40th Avenue. Cross Fruitvale Blvd to beginning of Greenway path.

Updates:
7.25.2011 Current construction on the I-82 freeway has closed the Union Gap access to the Greenway paved pathway. Please contact Union Gap hotels to confirm if access has become available.
8.01.2011 Guest House International previously known as Cedar Suites
The Yakima Valley blog articles feature members of the Yakima Valley Visitors and Convention Bureau. If you would like to receive information regarding membership, Click here, or to request a membership application, please contact Michele Hopkins at (509) 575-3010.

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Posted in Accommodations, Biking, Hotels, Outdoors, Recreation | 4 Comments »

Have You Been to The Beautiful Tuscan Inspired Yakima Valley Visitor Info Center

Wednesday, August 24th, 2011

Find the information you need on sites, activities and events in the Yakima Valley. The Yakima Valley Visitor Information Center in Central Washington features a comprehensive selection of information about events, cities in the Yakima Valley, Central Washington as well as Washington State, Oregon and Idaho.

The Gift Shop at the Yakima Valley Visitor Information Center has an ever changing inventory of specialty items produced in the Yakima Valley, as well as unique gift items.  Examples of the products you will find in the shop; Chukar Cherries Chocolate, Cherry Pie Filings, Mick’s Pepper Jellys, “Its All About the Pretzels”, Tillen Farms Pickled Products, Chukar Cherry Apple Chips, Assortment of Yakima Valley wines, Rattlesnake Hills Wine Glasses, Rattlesnake Hills Passport, Corkscrews, Local Cookbooks, Postcards, Souvenir booklets and unique gift items such as jewelry, leather purses, wooden cheese boards, etc.

The Visitor Center features an ever changing selection of Yakima Valley wines in the state of the art wine tasting machine. Purchase your “govino” , Yakima Valley branded, stemless polymer wine glass ($5.00) and receive free tasting of four Yakima Valley Wines. Start your wine country experience at the Visitor Center with wine tasting as you collect your information. If you don’t have time to visit the winery, the Yakima Valley Visitor Information Center features a a great selection of Yakima Valley wines for sale at winery prices.

You can even buy your, “ I (love) Yakima” T-shirt there!

Located off exit 33A I-82 E, Open 9-5 M-S 10-4 Sunday. Winter Hours 9-4 M-S Closed Sunday

You will be glad you stopped there for help in planning your stay in the Yakima Valley!

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Posted in Accommodations, Farm Fresh, Hiking, Hotels, Outdoors, Recreation, Restaurants, Scenic Drives | No Comments »