Yakima Valley Wildlife Viewing Spots
The rocky ridges, grassy hillsides, and wide-open meadows, not to mention all the rivers and lakes, means the Yakima Valley is the ideal home for a diverse array of wildlife. Between the federally managed wildlife preserves and the proximity of the naturally occurring habitats, there are plenty of easily accessible opportunities to catch a glimpse of wildlife. And because of the Valley's 300 days of sunshine each year, there's plenty of time to get out and see them all.
Hike your way through Chinook and White Pass, both of which play host to Rocky Mountain elk, bighorn sheep, deer, birds of prey, songbirds, blue herons, osprey, wood ducks, grouse and a large variety of amphibians. Explore the basalt cliffs of the Yakima River Canyon, which shelters the densest concentration of nesting hawks, eagles, and falcons in WA State. Or stroll through the Yakima Area Arboretum, home to hundreds of species of birds and small mammals.
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Oak Creek Wildlife Area
Known among the climbing community for its solid rock quality and variety of routes, the Tieton River Valley at the entrance to White Pass is one of the Valley's best kept secrets.
Learn More22 miles from the Visitor Information Center
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Yakima River Canyon
Travel for 27 miles along the Yakima River, for sights of rich wildlife including the highest concentration of hawks, eagles and falcons in Washington.
Learn More21 miles from the Visitor Information Center
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Toppenish Wildlife Refuge
Established in 1964 as a preserve for migratory waterfowl, this federally managed habitat encompasses nearly 2,000 acres that is now home to many other birds and resident wildlife species.
Learn More24 miles from the Visitor Information Center
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Cowiche Canyon
Home to hundreds of varieties of birds and raptors, the Cowiche Canyon is a gorgeous spot for viewing wildlife! Take time to hike out to the butterfly conservancy, but watch out for rattlesnakes!
Learn More9 miles from the Visitor Information Center
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Yakima Greenway
The 18-mile paved pathway of the Yakima Greenway boasts a number of wildlife viewing platforms, the ideal spot to catch your breath while you look for blue herons, bald eagles, river trout and more!
Learn More1 mile from the Visitor Information Center
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Yakima Area Arboretum
Stroll through the 46 acres of the pristine Yakima Arboretum and keep your eyes peeled for the hundreds of varieties of birds that inhabitat the grounds throughout the year.
Learn More2.4 miles from the Visitor Information Center
Must See Yakima Valley Stops
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