While you're in the area for river rafting, here are some other recommendations for things to do in the Tieton River and Naches areas to make your getaway complete...
Whether you're a seasoned veteran hiker or a first-timer, whether you're delicate and dainty or strong and strapping, whether you're taking a quick frolic or an extended expedition, here are several essential items and preparations to always keep in mind:
Before you embark on any adventure, plan it first. Make sure you know: where you're going; what to expect; and when you plan to start and finish the trail. Leave an itinerary behind with someone. Also, never hike alone.
Learn the local rules and regulations for parking, camping, and building fires.
Respect the wilderness and wildlife. LEAVE NO TRACE.
Remember to bring the essential gear which is appropriate for your hike, including but not limited to: an area map; a compass; seasonal clothing; food and extra water; a flashlight; waterproof matches or fire starter; a first aid kit; a whistle; a pocket knife; sunscreen; and/or insect repellent.
Additional Resources: For maps of Mt. Rainier National Park or more specific regions, contact the Outdoor Recreation Information Center at the downtown Seattle REI. For park passes, visit Northwest Forest Pass and Alpine Lakes Wilderness Permit. Be sure you need the pass or permit before you buy it. For any other questions or for more information, contact the Naches Ranger Station.
Recommended: Mount Rainier National Park Directions: From Naches, head west on US 12 to SR 410. West on SR 410 over Chinook and Cayuse Passes to the White River Entrance. About: September, the most exciting month on the Tieton, is also your last chance of the season to explore the sublime wilderness areas surrounding Mount Rainier. The crowds will be tapering off on Rainier just as Blue Sky starts regularly running the Tieton; it's a perfect opportunity for you to combine two of Washington's most thrilling adventures.
Tatoosh Wilderness Trails Length: 9 miles (& many side trails) Directions: The trailhead is reached by turning off Highway 12 at the Packwood Ranger Station. Follow Road 52 to Road 5270. Eleven miles from the ranger station is the trailhead. About: Nearly 16,000 acres of unlogged wilderness featuring breath-quickening hikes to breath-taking views, especially up toward the former site of Tatoosh Lookout. Lakes, mountainous regions, and pristine forests make this one of the finest parks in the Mount Rainier area.
Rimrock Lake Directions: From Naches, head west on Route 12 for about 25 miles and look for the lake on your left. This dam-created lake hosts a fine and varied selection of fish for the sportsperson's pleasure, motor-boating, swimming, and sunbathing. Its relatively isolated location means you'll often be able to enjoy it in quiet and uncrowded conditions. Get familiar with the lake water; it'll be carrying you through the time of your life on a Blue Sky river-raft.
Toppenish: The Toppenish Murals Directions: Follow 12 East to 82 South. Get off at Exit 50 and roll into the fascinating town of Toppenish. The city of Toppenish has the rare attraction of over seventy outdoor murals depicting scenes from Washington history, painted by the talented members of the Toppenish Mural Society. All murals are checked thoroughly for historical accuracy and quality, making the town a unique and charming location just three quarters of an hour south of Naches.
Norse Peak Wilderness Directions: 410 West all the way to the Crystal Mountain Blvd. Take a right there and then a left onto Gold Hill Road. 51,000 acres of wild geomorphic features, forests of Douglas fir, cedar and hemlock, and the habitats of the most rare and fascinating wildlife in this corner of the world. Many trails take exhilarating lines through this area, allowing access to remote wonders such as Norse Peak and Castle Mountain.
William O. Douglas Wilderness Directions: The trailhead for the American Ridge Trail begins just off Highway 410. Like to hike? 250 miles of trails provide access to nearly 170,000 acres of mountainous country in this area. Lakes, marshes, and wild rock formations provide the full scope of wilderness exploration.
Rattlesnake Hills Wine Trail Phone: 888-375-7498 15 Wineries! 90 minute vineyard tours on Sunday! Wine, wine, wine! Taste till you can't taste no more, then take a few discounted bottles home for private tippling in the glass you've received with your $5 wine passport! Just remember: there's no whining on the river!
Cascade Wine Company 26 N. 1st Street Yakima, WA Phone: 509-972-2811 Check out their website for information about their frequent tasting events of wines from all over Washington. Cheers!
Desert Hills Winery 208 N. 1st St. Yakima, WA Phone: 509-453-0503 Drop in on the Desert Hills tasting room to get a taste of the goods grown in rich Yakima Valley soil.
Kana Winery 10 So. 2nd St. Yakima, WA Phone: 509-453-6611 "Kana," the spirit within a mountain, brings out the volcanic flavors of these wines. Get in touch with the spirits in more ways than one!
Donitelia Winery 321 Yakima Ave Yakima, WA Phone: 509-452-9900 Italian style wines in the Yakima Valley? You bet, Don Giovanni. From a Primitivo to a Cryogenically Extracted Sangiovese Reserve, this winery will have you on your Bacchus!
Recommended:
Before you embark on any adventure, plan it first. Make sure you know: where you're going; what to expect; and when you plan to start and finish the trail. Leave an itinerary behind with someone. Also, never hike alone.
