Inland Charm in Southeast Washington

Sculpted canyons cut through rural valleys as the Columbia and Snake rivers wind through the Southeast region of Washington exposing its Inland charm. Characterized by an arid climate and the gently rolling Palouse, the Southeast region serves as Washington’s bread basket. The growing tri-cities of Richland, Kennewick and Pasco offer museums and plenty of things to do.

You’d be hard pressed to visit Southeast Washington and not marvel at the geological wonder of the Palouse. Formed from silt deposits after the Missoula Lake Ice Age, the magnificent hills create a rolling and swirling landscape that changes colors with the seasons. The fertile soil has proven bountiful for winter wheat, barley and beans. Photographers rejoice at panoramic views from country roads lined with wildflowers and plenty of rustic barns along the horizon.

The Columbia River Basin in the Southeast region of Washington is one of the highest lava plateaus in the world. Carved with dry river canyons, marshes, and lakes, the basin is brimming with perches like the red cliffs above Crab Creek Coulee. Take advantage of marvelous vistas for viewing birds like pelicans and cormorants along with other area wildlife

For things to do in Southeast Washington, the McNary National Wildlife Refuge in Burbank is home to a large population of migratory waterfowl like the mallard in addition to songbirds, shorebirds and amphibians. The REACH Museum in Richland is dedicated to the culture of the Tri-Cities. With geological exhibits on land formation as an impact of the ice age, to cold war involvement of the area and the Manhattan Project, the airy and modernly designed museum makes for a terrific day of indoor discovery.