Top 4 Sports Destinations in Washington

Explore Yakima, Seattle Southside, Tri-Cities and Snohomish County for exciting outdoor activities, scenic trails, and watersports year-round

By Billy Stampfl

Washington State is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a blend of natural beauty and diverse activities across its varied landscapes. From the rugged coastlines of Puget Sound to the sweeping rivers of eastern Washington, there’s something for everyone. Whether it’s hiking, watersports, or exploring local parks, Washington’s unique combination of urban wonders and natural attractions makes it a must-visit destination.

This article highlights four standout regions: Yakima, Seattle Southside, the Tri-Cities, and Snohomish County. Each area has its own array of outdoor activities and picturesque settings, perfect for travelers seeking adventure or relaxation. In Yakima, you can try skiing, fishing, and scenic drives. Seattle Southside offers botanical gardens, lakeside parks, and scenic trails. The Tri-Cities region is ideal for watersports and biking along rivers, while Snohomish County boasts beautiful lakes and trails across its charming towns.

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Kevin Golf Shot Yakima — Golfing in Yakima Valley

Yakima Valley, Washington for Sports

Yakima Valley is a hub for outdoor adventure, offering year-round opportunities to explore its stunning landscapes. With an impressive 300 days of sunshine annually, visitors can enjoy the region’s beauty no matter the season. One of the top winter destinations is White Pass, where skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels can carve their way down slopes with breathtaking views of Mount Rainier. The pass is known for its relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere, making it perfect for both beginners and seasoned athletes.

For those who prefer scenic drives and hikes, the Chinook Pass Scenic Byway delivers. This two-lane road winds through the northeastern flank of Mount Rainier, offering dramatic views of the iconic peak and access to numerous outdoor activities. From exploring old-growth forests to hiking along rivers, this route has something for every adventurer.

In addition, Yakima Valley is blessed with three major rivers that form 109 lakes, providing ideal settings for fishing, rafting, and paddleboarding. Outdoor enthusiasts can easily combine morning skiing, afternoon mountain biking, and evening golfing at the renowned Apple Tree Golf Course, a 6,900-yard course with rolling fairways and a famous island green on the 17^th hole. Whether you’re into winter sports, scenic drives, or top-notch golf on the grounds of a 100-year-old apple orchard, Yakima Valley has an adventure waiting for you.

Sports Attractions in Seattle Southside

Seattle Southside offers a variety of outdoor experiences perfect for nature lovers and families alike. Start your adventure at the Highline SeaTac Botanical Garden, a serene escape just a few blocks from the airport. This hidden gem boasts stunning collections of roses, lilies, and fuchsias, along with a traditional Japanese garden. The garden is a tranquil retreat from the city’s bustle, ideal for basking in the sun and enjoying the peaceful sound of the babbling brook.

For a family-friendly outing, head to Angle Lake Park, a beautiful lakeside area fit for swimming, playing, or simply relaxing. Kids will love the playground and spray park, while the lake itself offers designated swimming areas for cooling off on warm days. Plus, with easy access from the Link Light Rail’s Angle Lake Station, it’s a convenient stop for visitors exploring the area.

If you’re up for more activity, grab your bike, rollerblades, or running shoes and hit the Interurban Trail. This 14.7-mile trail connects multiple cities from Auburn to Tukwila, providing a scenic route through natural landscapes. Whether you’re seeking a leisurely ride or a more intense workout, the trail offers fresh air and beautiful views, making it a perfect way to end your day outdoors.

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Tri-Cities Dust Devils baseball game — When in Washington, be sure to take in a Tri-Cities Dust Devils game when you’re on a break from amazing outdoor adventures. Photo courtesy of Visit Tri-Cities.

Tri-Cities, Washington for Sports Events

The Tri-Cities region is a watersports paradise, situated where the Columbia, Snake, and Yakima Rivers converge. Offering stunning river views, this area is perfect for boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, and other outdoor adventures. The Columbia River also hosts the famous HAPO Columbia Cup, where Unlimited Hydroplanes have raced for over 56 years on its 2.5-mile course, making it a must-visit for thrill-seekers.

For those looking to explore on land, the Sacagawea Heritage Trail is a scenic 23-mile paved loop that runs through Pasco, Richland, and Kennewick. Starting at Sacajawea State Park, the trail loops along the Columbia River, providing interpretive areas that highlight the natural history and cultural significance of the region. This accessible trail is dedicated to Sacagawea, the Native American woman who aided Lewis and Clark, and offers a perfect way to experience the unique landscape of the Tri-Cities.

Kayak Point Disc Golf Resort is a top spot for the sport in the U.S. Photo courtesy of Snohomish County Sports Commission.

Sports attractions in Snohomish County

Snohomish County is known for its diverse blend of outdoor adventures and picturesque settings. Lake Tye Park in Monroe is a popular spot for water sports and athletic events, including the 2024 Nautique WWA Wakeboard Nationals and the U.S. Wakesurf Nationals, along with the Lake Tye Triathlon. The lake is also great for recreational paddleboarding. Lake Stevens, the largest lake in Snohomish County, regularly hosts events such as the Spring Sprint Regatta and the Lake Stevens Triathlon. It’s a perfect destination for paddleboarding, rowing, canoeing, and boating.

For those seeking land-based adventures, Lord Hill Regional Park offers excellent trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. The park is home to events like the Lord Hill Trail Run. A fun event during the Fall is Northwest Trail Runs’ annual Corn Maze Craze at Bob’s Corn and Pumpkin Farm.

For another unique experience, head to Darrington, which offers a Bike Skills Park and an archery range. Meanwhile, in Everett, visitors can enjoy kiteboarding at Jetty Island or sea kayaking along the waterfronts of Edmonds, Mukilteo, and Everett, with easy access to the Puget Sound waters.