Walla Walla, Washington is known for its many vineyards and tasting rooms. A growing number of breweries, cideries, and distilleries complement its fabulous wineries. Foods for all palates are available throughout the region; many chefs and restaurants infuse locally grown ingredients in their cuisine.
Before you sit down to enjoy the culinary scene, enjoy outside Walla Walla. Here’s your ultimate guide to adventuring in Walla Walla, Washington.
Walla Walla Grit
The Blue Mountains provide more than just a gorgeous scenic backdrop for the area. Located within the Blues are some of the best gravel roads for riding. Sponsored by Allegro Cyclery, the Walla Walla Grit is usually held on the second Sunday in September.
The Grit is known for its challenging options of courses. Riders can choose from three different course lengths – 45-miles, 65 miles, or 96 miles of complex gravel roads. Racers who select the longest course will begin their ride at 6:00 a.m. The two other races start at 8:00 a.m. for the 65 milers; riders for the shortest course will get underway at 9:00 a.m.
Adventure awaits for riders and spectators alike at the Grit.
Walla Walla Drag Strip
For those interested in drag racing, head to the Walla Walla Drag Strip. Some of you may remember the strip under its previous name of Bonanza Raceway. Now part of the NHRA Member Track Network, the renovated track provides many NHRA sanctioned events for racers. On the Walla Walla Drag Strip’s website, you can find their race schedule.
Drivers as young as five years old can participate in the NHRA’s program, Jr. Street. 13–16-year-old girls and boys can compete in races as long as they have a teammate who is of legal age. It’s a great way for families to share a common interest and activity.
Walla Walla Valley BMX
Located in one of Walla Walla’s many parks is an approved BMX track. Fort Walla Walla is home to the town’s USA BMX sanctioned track. When events are not being held on the track, anyone is permitted to use it. Everyone must follow the safety rules, one of which requires helmets for all riders.
From April through September, the Walla Walla Valley BMX track hosts numerous events, including SCR or State Championship Races. These are fun events for riders and spectators.
Anyone seeking to learn the skills are welcome to the clinics hosted by Walla Walla BMX. Experienced riders will share riding and safety techniques with clinic participants. New riders can be as young as two-years old!
Onionman Triathlon
For those seeking a team activity or challenging yourself to multiple events, Walla Walla hosts the Onionman Triathlon. The race is often held on the third Saturday of May. The Blue Mountains and Bennington Lake offer scenic vistas and challenging courses for participants. For new and experienced triathletes, it permits participants to compete as a team, which makes the Onionman a race for all. A USAT sanctioned event, the Onionman is also fun for spectators. Come join the festivities!
