10 Columbia Basin Hikes + Other Activities

The Columbia Basin, located in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States, offers a wide variety of hiking opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are ten hikes in the Columbia Basin that showcase the area’s natural beauty and diverse landscapes:

1. Coyote Wall Trail: Located in the Columbia River Gorge, this trail offers stunning views of the river and surrounding cliffs. It’s particularly beautiful during wildflower season in the spring.
2. Rowena Crest Loop: This loop takes you through the Tom McCall Nature Preserve, where you’ll find an abundance of wildflowers and panoramic views of the Columbia River.
3. Deschutes River Trail: Hike along the Deschutes River near Maupin, Oregon, and enjoy dramatic canyon scenery, riverside campsites, and opportunities for fishing.
4. Columbia Hills State Park: Explore the Dalles Mountain Ranch area within the park, known for its vibrant spring wildflowers and views of the Columbia River.
5. Labyrinth Loop Trail: Located near Spokane, Washington, this trail meanders through unique rock formations and offers fantastic views of the Spokane River.
6. McCall Preserve Trail: This trail near Pendleton, Oregon, takes you through rolling hills, offering a mix of desert landscapes and beautiful vistas.
7. Badger Mountain: Near Richland, Washington, this popular trail leads to the summit of Badger Mountain, providing panoramic views of the Tri-Cities area.
8. Umatilla Rim Trail: Located near Hermiston, Oregon, this trail takes you along the Umatilla River and offers opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife viewing.
9. Catherine Creek Arch Loop: Explore this loop trail in the Catherine Creek area of the Columbia River Gorge, featuring unique basalt arches and vibrant wildflowers.
10. Indian Heaven Wilderness: A bit farther from the Columbia Basin but worth the trip, this wilderness area offers numerous trails through subalpine meadows, around mountain lakes, and past lava flows.

Remember to check trail conditions, obtain any necessary permits, and follow Leave No Trace principles to help preserve the beauty of the Columbia Basin for future generations. Additionally, hiking in this region can be weather-dependent, so it’s a good idea to check the weather forecast before heading out and to be prepared for changing conditions.

The Columbia Basin offers a wide range of activities beyond hiking. Here are 11 other things you can do in this diverse and beautiful region:

1. Wine Tasting: Explore the vineyards and wineries of the Columbia Valley and Walla Walla Valley, known for producing excellent wines, particularly Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Chardonnay.
2. Water Sports: Enjoy boating, paddleboarding, kayaking, and fishing on the Columbia River, where there are various access points and marinas.
3. Golfing: Play a round of golf at one of the many golf courses in the region, such as the Columbia Point Golf Course in Richland or the Wine Valley Golf Club in Walla Walla.
4. Bird Watching: The Columbia Basin is a haven for birdwatchers, with numerous birding hotspots like McNary National Wildlife Refuge and Conboy Lake National Wildlife Refuge.
5. Wildlife Viewing: In addition to birds, you can spot various wildlife species, including deer, elk, beavers, and more, in the region’s natural areas.
6. Mountain Biking: Explore mountain biking trails in areas like Horse Heaven Hills and the Sevenmile ORV Trail near Kennewick for a thrilling ride.
7. Geocaching: Embark on a geocaching adventure and search for hidden caches in the Columbia Basin, which can lead you to interesting locations off the beaten path.
8. Camping: Spend a night under the stars at campgrounds like Crow Butte Park or Spring Canyon Campground, offering a serene outdoor experience.
9. Stargazing: Due to its relatively remote location, the Columbia Basin is an excellent spot for stargazing. Look for dark sky areas like Goldendale Observatory State Park.
10. Historical Sites: Visit historical sites like the Whitman Mission National Historic Site or the Hanford Reach Interpretive Center to learn about the area’s rich history.
11. Festivals and Events: Check out local festivals and events happening throughout the year, including the Walla Walla Balloon Stampede, the Water Follies in Tri-Cities, and various wine festivals.

Whether you’re interested in outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or simply relaxing with a glass of wine, the Columbia Basin has something to offer every traveler and outdoor enthusiast.

Conservation in the Columbia Basin District is of paramount importance due to its ecological significance, its role in supporting biodiversity, and its impact on human communities. Here are some key reasons why conservation efforts in this region are crucial:

1. Biodiversity Preservation: The Columbia Basin is home to a diverse array of plant and animal species, some of which are unique and found nowhere else. Conservation efforts help protect critical habitats and ensure the survival of these species, many of which are at risk of extinction.
2. Ecosystem Services: The basin provides essential ecosystem services such as clean water, air purification, and pollination. Conserving natural habitats and healthy ecosystems ensures the provision of these services, benefiting both wildlife and human communities.
3. Water Resources: The Columbia River and its tributaries are a vital source of water for the region. Conservation measures are essential to maintain water quality and quantity, ensuring a reliable water supply for agriculture, industry, and residential use.
4. Flood Mitigation: Healthy ecosystems, including wetlands and riparian areas, play a crucial role in mitigating the impacts of floods. Conserved natural areas can absorb excess water and reduce the risk of flood damage to communities.
5. Climate Change Resilience: Conservation practices, such as reforestation and preserving carbon-rich soils, contribute to climate change mitigation and adaptation. They help sequester carbon dioxide and enhance the resilience of ecosystems to climate-related challenges.
6. Recreation and Tourism: The Columbia Basin offers recreational opportunities that support local economies. Conservation efforts help maintain these opportunities by preserving scenic landscapes, wildlife habitats, and outdoor recreation areas.
7. Cultural and Historical Significance: Many indigenous communities have deep cultural and historical ties to the Columbia Basin. Conservation efforts respect and protect these cultural heritage sites and traditions.
8. Sustainable Agriculture: Conservation practices can improve soil health, reduce erosion, and protect water quality, promoting sustainable agriculture practices that benefit both farmers and the environment.
9. Fisheries: The Columbia Basin is home to important salmon and trout fisheries. Conservation measures are crucial to ensure the survival and health of these fish populations, which are not only vital to the ecosystem but also to local economies.
10. Resilience to Natural Disasters: Healthy ecosystems can provide a buffer against natural disasters such as wildfires and landslides. Conserving natural areas can help reduce the severity and impact of such events.
11. Future Generations: Conservation is an investment in the future. By protecting the natural resources and beauty of the Columbia Basin, we ensure that future generations can enjoy and benefit from this unique and ecologically important region.

Efforts to conserve the Columbia Basin should involve a collaborative approach, including government agencies, local communities, indigenous groups, and environmental organizations. These stakeholders can work together to implement sustainable land use practices, protect critical habitats, and ensure the long-term health and vitality of this ecologically significant region.