Trip Idea

Hanford: Sunny Day Tour in Richland

Multiple Parks

A color photo of a woman and girl on a scooter along a path that is beside water.
Duration Half Day
Topic(s) Native American Heritage, Westward Expansion, World War II
Activities Biking, Picnicking, Hiking
Type Kid Friendly, Active, Outdoors
Parks Manhattan Project National Historical Park

Take advantage of the many sunny, beautiful days in the Tri-Cities to enjoy the outdoors. The first stop is Candy Mountain where you can hike to the top to get a birds-eye view of Richland and the Hanford Site. Signs along the trail describe the area’s rich and layered geologic history. After your hike, drive over to Howard Amon Park along the Columbia River where Manhattan Project workers used to relax. The park is in the heart of downtown Richland and has a paved trail along the river that connects to the 23-mile (37 km) Sacajawea Heritage Trail. This trail is great for walking or bicycling.
From Mountain to River
  • Manhattan Project National Historical Park

    Hanford: Hike Candy Mountain

    • Activity Fee: No (Entrance fees may apply)
    • Reservations: No
    • Activity: Hiking
    • Pets: Yes
    • Location: Hike Candy Mountain
    • Duration: 1–2 Hours
    • Season: Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall
    • Time of Day: Day
    Color photograph of an expansive landscape with a patchwork of agricultural fields.

    The trail up Candy Mountain is a moderate 3.6 mile (5.8 km) roundtrip hike that offers sweeping views of the Tri-Cities region and a walk through time. Signs along the trail explain the impact of the ice age floods on area geography. Hikers capture sweeping views from the summit, with Mount Adams, Rainier, and Stuart visible on clear days. This perch offers a bird’s-eye view of the Hanford Site. A nearby sign points out the various areas of the Hanford Site.

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  • Manhattan Project National Historical Park

    Hanford: Explore Howard Amon Park

    • Activity Fee: No (Entrance fees may apply)
    • Reservations: No
    • Activity: Picnicking
    • Age: 0 and Older
    • Pets: Yes
    • Location: Howard Amon Park
    • Duration: 2 Hours
    • Season: Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall
    • Time of Day: Day, Dawn, Dusk
    Color photograph of a river\'s shore with numerous people gathered on a green lawn beside it.

    Serving as a community gathering place for over 100 years, Howard Amon Park offers something for everyone. You can relax under a shade tree, wade into the river, walk or ride a bike along the river path, and enjoy family time with your kids on the play equipment.

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  • Manhattan Project National Historical Park

    Hanford: Bike and Walk the Sacagawea Heritage Trail

    • Activity Fee: No (Entrance fees may apply)
    • Reservations: No
    • Activity: Biking
    • Pets: Yes
    • Location: Bike the Sacagawea Heritage Trail
    • Duration: 1–4 Hours
    • Season: Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall
    • Time of Day: Day
    A young girl rides her bike in a grassy area along the river.

    This recreational trail along the Columbia River is a perfect way to explore the Tri-Cities on foot and bike. Interpretive signs along the route share information about local history including Lewis and Clark’s experience in the Mid-Columbia region. You can also take in panoramic views of the Columbia River, which was essential for the Hanford Site.

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Last updated: May 18, 2022