10 Charming Washington River Towns To Visit This Spring
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Nikki Cleveland
Author
Washington is home to some of the most beautiful rivers in the country. Whether it’s the Columbia River, Yakima River, Wenatchee River, or any of our other hundreds of streams, you can find plenty of charming small waterside towns to visit right beside them. With shops to explore and outdoor activities during the spring and summer, they’re perfect places to plan a trip once it gets warm out. Here are 10 of our state’s many riverside spots you’ll want to experience this season.
Prosser is a small, quiet town along the Yakima River in the heart of Washington's wine country. Plan a trip this spring and you'll be able to experience all sorts of outdoor activities like fishing, boating, hiking and golf, along with fantastic local wine selections.
Also known as the Antique Capital of the Northwest, Snohomish is located along a river that shares the same name. While you're visiting, head out for a relaxing stroll along the riverwalk near the historic downtown, or stop by and browse through the dozens of small vintage shops.
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Cashmere is a small town just east of Leavenworth along the Wenatchee River. During the warm seasons, it's a perfect spot for whitewater river rafting, fishing, bird watching, biking, golf and more. A few minutes down from the river, check out Country Boys for some finger-licking good BBQ.
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The Tri-Cities, including Richland, are located at the confluence of the Yakima, Snake, and Columbia rivers. Stop by the area this spring and enjoy a relaxing view of the water at Howard Amon Park or the Columbia Point Marina Park.
This teeny town of 200 is located in the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest along the Skykomish River. You'll be able to explore miles of hiking trails here, along with water activities from fishing to kayaking and scenic train excursions.
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The sister city to Bingen in Germany, this small community can be found in the heart of the Columbia River Gorge. The area serves as a perfect place for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for windsurfing, kayaking, hiking, horseback trail riding, mountain biking and fishing.
Cle Elum is a small, scenic town by the Upper Yakima River. The town's name even comes from a Salish term that translates to "swift water." It's a popular area in the spring for camping, hiking, fishing and more. Be sure to stop by the Cle Elum Bakery and try some of the mouthwatering baked goods.
Famous for the 268-foot waterfall that drops off the river, Snoqualmie serves as a quaint place to visit no matter what time of year it is. After you check out the spectacular falls, you'll be able to find dozens of cafes and unique small shops to browse through.
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Stevenson is a perfect jumping off point if you're looking to explore the Gifford Pinchot National Forest or Mount St. Helens area. Located by the Columbia River, the town is home to six parks that are all within walking distance of the pier. If you're a fan of craft beer, be sure to stop by Walking Man Brewery for a refreshing ice cold brew.
Maryhill is a cozy little town for a weekend trip by the Columbia River Gorge. Check out the full-size Stonehenge this spring, as well as the (supposedly haunted) Maryhill Museum of Art.
Have you been to any of these towns in Washington before? What are some other local riverfront communities?
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