Sacagawea Heritage Trail

The Sacagawea Heritage Trail offers a delightful touring cycling experience, tracing the Columbia River through Washington's Tri-Cities. This easy 20.1-mile (32.3 km) loop, with a minimal 253 feet (77 metres) of elevation gain, provides nearly two hours of scenic pedaling on a paved multi-use path. You'll enjoy continuous river views, pass through green, tree-shaded areas, and get glimpses of the Yakima River Delta, making it a fantastic option for a relaxed outing.

Planning your ride is straightforward, as the trail connects the cities of Pasco, Kennewick, and Richland, with ample access points and parking in city parks. While most of the route is off public roads, be mindful that some sections on the Pasco side briefly share the road with vehicles. The trail is well-marked with mile markers, and you'll find restrooms conveniently located in parks along the way, ensuring a comfortable journey.

This trail holds historical significance, named in honor of Sacagawea, who guided the Lewis and Clark Expedition through this very river corridor. It's a family-friendly route that also offers connections to broader regional trail networks, and you can even access Bateman Island from Kennewick for bird-watching. The trail's flat terrain and paved surface make it an excellent choice for beginner bike routes or a leisurely day out.

Cycle the easy 19.9-mile Sacagawea Heritage Trail along the Columbia River, offering scenic views and access to Sacagawea State Park.

The Sacagawea Heritage Trail – Columbia Park Lakeside View loop from Kennewick offers a delightful touring cycling experience, tracing the Columbia River with continuous, expansive views. You'll glide along a mostly flat, paved surface, passing through diverse landscapes from natural shoreline to open parkland, with highlights like the Columbia Park Lakeside View and the confluence of the Snake and Columbia Rivers. Keep an eye out for local bird species and salmon, especially around the Yakima River Delta, as you enjoy the easygoing atmosphere.

Planning your ride is straightforward, as the trail is well-equipped with amenities. You'll find convenient parking access at various points, including Columbia Park in Kennewick, and numerous parks along the route provide restrooms and picnic areas. The trail is accessible year-round, but spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures for cycling. Remember that while mostly dedicated, some portions on the Pasco side might share space with vehicles, so always be aware of your surroundings.

This 23.1-mile (37.2 km) loop, with a minimal 216 feet (66 metres) of elevation gain, is rated moderate primarily due to its length, taking about 2 hours and 9 minutes to complete. It's rich in history, named after Sacagawea of the Lewis and Clark Expedition, with interpretive "Pompy's Lessons" markers providing fascinating historical and natural facts along the way. It's a fantastic option for families or anyone seeking a relaxed, scenic ride through the Tri-Cities region.