
Badger Mountain Centennial Preserve
Expansive hilltop preserve with well-maintained trails offering stunning panoramic views of the Tri-Cities.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Wildflowers bloom vibrantly

Badger Mountain Centennial Preserve
Best Time
Wildflowers bloom vibrantly

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Expansive hilltop preserve with well-maintained trails offering stunning panoramic views of the Tri-Cities.
"Best hiking in the Tri Cities. Well used trails, nicely maintained, beautiful views."

☀️ Pack Sun Protection
No shade here! Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for your hike.
💧 Carry Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated on this exposed hilltop. Water is essential, especially on longer hikes.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Tri-Cities Views
Summit
Soak in breathtaking 360-degree vistas of the Tri-Cities area from the expansive hilltop. A truly rewarding sight!

Wildflower Displays
Various Trails
During the right season, enjoy vibrant carpets of wildflowers dotting the hillsides. A splash of natural color!

Well-Maintained Hiking Trails
Throughout the Preserve
Explore miles of meticulously kept trails, perfect for hiking and biking, thanks to dedicated volunteers.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Sun: Hydration is Key
Trail Variety for Every Hiker
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
☀️ Pack Sun Protection
No shade here! Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for your hike.
💧 Carry Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated on this exposed hilltop. Water is essential, especially on longer hikes.
👟 Comfortable Hiking Shoes
The trails are well-maintained, but good footwear is key for comfort and stability.
🚴♀️ Bike-Friendly Trails
Many trails are suitable for biking, offering a different way to explore the preserve.
Tips
from all over the internet
☀️ Pack Sun Protection
No shade here! Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for your hike.
💧 Carry Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated on this exposed hilltop. Water is essential, especially on longer hikes.
👟 Comfortable Hiking Shoes
The trails are well-maintained, but good footwear is key for comfort and stability.
🚴♀️ Bike-Friendly Trails
Many trails are suitable for biking, offering a different way to explore the preserve.
🐦 Birdwatching Opportunities
Keep an eye out for various bird species that call this preserve home.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Badger Mountain Centennial Preserve for its excellent, well-maintained trails and beautiful panoramic views of the Tri-Cities, making it a top local spot for hiking and biking. The community's volunteer efforts in trail upkeep are frequently highlighted. However, the significant lack of shade and the need for ample water and sun protection are consistent points of caution.
"Many trails available to hike and bike.
(Photos taken on 9/12/2025 w/ smoke in the distance due to small local fires)"
Florentino Gutierrez
"Hike the mountains you have, not the ones you wish to have. Badger wouldn't be a five-star hike in the Cascades, but it's the best we have in the Tri-Cities. The trails are in excellent shape throughout the year. I wish the powers that be would resurrect some of the historical paths that are steeper. It would be easy to have a trail about 50% steeper than the Canyon Trail. People never cut switchbacks if the trail is steep enough."
R Miller
"Great hike but no shade. Take water and sunscreen. It is a large hill with some wild flowers and birds."
Valerie Scott
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The preserve is easily accessible by car. It's located in Richland, Washington, with clear signage directing you to the main parking areas and trailheads. Many visitors find it convenient to use GPS navigation to reach the preserve.
Yes, there are designated parking areas available at the preserve. These lots can fill up, especially on weekends and during peak seasons, so arriving early is recommended.
Public transportation options to the immediate vicinity of Badger Mountain Centennial Preserve are limited. Driving is the most common and convenient way for visitors to access the trails.
Yes, the preserve features several trailheads and access points, allowing for various starting points for your hike or bike ride. This offers flexibility in planning your route.
While trails are generally well-marked, having a trail map or using a navigation app on your phone can be helpful, especially if you plan to explore multiple routes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Badger Mountain Centennial Preserve is free to enter and explore. There are no admission fees, making it an accessible natural escape for everyone.
The preserve is generally open from dawn until dusk. It's a natural area, so there are no strict opening or closing times like a typical park, but it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety.
No advance booking or tickets are required to visit Badger Mountain Centennial Preserve, as it is a public access area with no entry fee.
While generally open, it's always a good idea to check for any temporary closures due to weather conditions or maintenance. However, typical visiting hours are daylight hours.
It is not recommended to visit Badger Mountain Centennial Preserve after dark due to safety concerns and the lack of lighting. Stick to daylight hours for your visit.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Badger Mountain offers a variety of trails, including switchbacks and more direct routes, suitable for hiking and biking. The trails are well-maintained by volunteers.
Yes, many of the trails are suitable for families. However, the lack of shade and potential for heat means you'll need to be well-prepared with water and sun protection for little ones.
Restroom facilities may be limited or seasonal. It's advisable to check the latest information or plan accordingly before your visit.
Dogs are generally allowed at Badger Mountain Centennial Preserve, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. Please be a responsible pet owner and clean up after your dog.
You might spot various birds, small mammals, and if you're lucky, some reptiles. The preserve is a habitat for local flora and fauna.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit offers the most expansive panoramic views of the Tri-Cities. Various points along the trails also provide scenic backdrops with wildflowers and rolling hills.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, offers the most beautiful light for landscape photography. Midday can be harsh due to the lack of shade.
During spring, the wildflowers create stunning photographic opportunities. The changing seasons also offer different colors and moods for your shots.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the panoramic views. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. Don't forget a sturdy tripod if you plan for sunrise/sunset shots.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check with local authorities or park management regarding drone operation policies before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there aren't specific playgrounds or amenities for children, the open space and the chance to see wildflowers and birds can be engaging. Pack snacks and make it a fun adventure, focusing on the experience of being in nature close to home. The panoramic views from the top can also be a rewarding sight for kids after a good hike.
🚴♀️ Cyclists and Bikers
Be prepared for the same conditions as hikers – sun exposure and the need for hydration are crucial. The trails are multi-use, so always be courteous to hikers and be aware of your surroundings. The expansive nature of the preserve means you can enjoy longer rides and explore different routes within the area.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Trail Etiquette and Maintenance
When hiking or biking, remember to yield to uphill traffic and be mindful of other users. The trails are designed to accommodate various skill levels, but respecting the natural environment and fellow visitors is paramount. The ongoing work by trail crews ensures the safety and enjoyment of everyone who visits this beloved local gem.
Seasonal Beauty and Weather Considerations
Autumn offers pleasant temperatures and beautiful golden hues across the landscape, while winter provides a stark, serene beauty, though trails can be muddy after rain. Regardless of the season, visitors should always check the weather forecast and be prepared for changing conditions. The exposed nature of the preserve means sun, wind, and temperature fluctuations are common.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit