USS Triton Submarine Memorial Park
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USS Triton Sail Park

4.5
·216 reviews·Richland, United States

Explore the imposing sail of the USS Triton, a nuclear submarine that circumnavigated the globe, set against scenic Columbia River views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Pleasant weather for exploring

CrowdLow
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USS Triton Submarine Memorial Park

USS Triton Sail Park

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Pleasant weather for exploring

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore the imposing sail of the USS Triton, a nuclear submarine that circumnavigated the globe, set against scenic Columbia River views.

4.5
(216 reviews)

"A cool little park with an interesting piece of history and great river views."

Vertical photo
TIP

Check for Sail Tours

Inquire about monthly tours to see the inside of the sail. It's a unique historical experience! :ticket:

Wear Comfortable Shoes

Paved paths are great, but river trails can be steep. :athletic_shoe:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

USS Triton Sail

USS Triton Sail

Centerpiece of the park

The massive, imposing sail of the Cold War-era nuclear submarine, a striking monument to naval history.

Columbia River Views

Columbia River Views

Riverside walking trails

Enjoy scenic vistas of the Columbia River from the park's accessible walking paths.

Historical Information Plaques

Historical Information Plaques

Around the sail

Learn about the USS Triton's groundbreaking missions and its place in naval history.

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Planning Your Visit

A Glimpse of Cold War History

The USS Triton Sail Park offers a unique look at a significant piece of Cold War history. While the park itself is small, the imposing sail of the nuclear submarine is a striking centerpiece. Plan for a short visit focused on appreciating the historical artifact and the riverside views.

Accessibility and River Trails

The main park area and the USS Triton sail are fully paved and accessible. However, the trail leading down to the Columbia River can be steep. Consider comfortable footwear if you plan to explore beyond the main paved paths. Check for any special tour dates for the sail's interior.

Best Times

When
Spring & Fall mornings
Why
Pleasant weather for exploring
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer visitors, more peaceful
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

I have a 3 day stop in Tri-Cities coming up. What are some must see places and things to do I should experience?

Check for Sail Tours

Inquire about monthly tours to see the inside of the sail. It's a unique historical experience! :ticket:

Wear Comfortable Shoes

Paved paths are great, but river trails can be steep. :athletic_shoe:

Bring Your Camera

Capture the impressive scale of the sail and scenic river views. :camerawithflash:

EV Charging Available

A single-level 2 EV charger is available in the small parking lot. :electric_plug:

Tips

from all over the internet

Check for Sail Tours

Inquire about monthly tours to see the inside of the sail. It's a unique historical experience! :ticket:

Wear Comfortable Shoes

Paved paths are great, but river trails can be steep. :athletic_shoe:

Bring Your Camera

Capture the impressive scale of the sail and scenic river views. :camerawithflash:

EV Charging Available

A single-level 2 EV charger is available in the small parking lot. :electric_plug:

What Travellers Say

4.5
(216 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find USS Triton Sail Park to be a small but historically significant park featuring the impressive sail of a Cold War-era nuclear submarine. The paved, accessible paths and Columbia River views are appreciated, though some note the steepness of trails leading to the water. The potential for interior tours adds to its appeal as a unique historical stop.

"Really cool little park with the sail of the USS Triton.

All paved and very accessible. Short easy walk from the parking area.

It’s also connected to another paved trail that goes down to the water but that trail rather steep.

They do tours of the inside of the sail once a month but we lucked out and one of the port employees was showing it off to her family so we got to peak inside and take a look.

I certainly wouldn’t be climbing around in there because those tight spaces were made for a 19yr old sailor in peak physical condition not my chunky butt."

Mike Devietro

"Small, clean Park with an interesting piece of history. There is a single level 2 EV charger in the small parking area."

Daniel Lerew

"Its pretty cool, I love the view of the Columbia River. I didn't realize we could request a tour guide to let us see the inside. Ill just have to do that next time. This is a very important historical experience."

NoThanks TomHanks

What People Like

Impressive submarine sail
Accessible paved paths
Columbia River views

What People Dislike

Steep river trails
Limited interior tours

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

USS Triton Sail Park is located in the Tri-Cities area. It's accessible by car, with a small parking lot available on-site. The park is connected to other paved trails, offering a pleasant approach if you're exploring the riverside.

While described as being in the 'Area 51/ Roswell' part of town, the park is a distinct historical landmark. Follow local signage for riverside parks or use GPS coordinates for the most direct route.

There is a small parking area directly at the park. It also features a single-level 2 EV charger, which is a convenient amenity for electric vehicle owners.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, USS Triton Sail Park is generally free to enter and explore. The main attraction, the submarine sail, is visible from the park grounds without admission fees.

As a public park, USS Triton Sail Park is typically open during daylight hours. It's best to visit during the day to fully appreciate the sail and surrounding views.

Yes, tours of the inside of the sail are sometimes offered, often once a month. It's recommended to check with local port authorities or the park's information sources for specific tour schedules and availability. Visitors have reported luck in peeking inside when employees are present.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The main attraction is the impressive sail of the USS Triton, a Cold War-era nuclear submarine. You can also enjoy paved walking trails with views of the Columbia River and read historical information plaques about the submarine's service.

The main park area and the USS Triton sail itself are paved and very accessible, making it suitable for strollers and wheelchairs. However, trails leading down to the water can be steep.

Yes, there is a paved trail that leads down to the water from the park. Be aware that this trail is described as rather steep, so exercise caution.

The USS Triton was a groundbreaking nuclear submarine, notable for being the first submarine to complete a submerged circumnavigation of the globe in 1960. The sail at the park is a tangible piece of this significant naval history.

📸 📸 Photography

The most striking photo opportunity is the USS Triton sail itself, showcasing its immense size against the sky or river backdrop. The Columbia River views also offer scenic photographic potential, especially during sunrise or sunset.

Photography inside the sail is generally only possible if you are part of an organized tour or if access is granted by park staff. The interior spaces are tight and were designed for sailors, so access is limited.

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👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

USS Triton Sail Park is a great stop for families looking for a quick, educational experience. The massive sail of the submarine is a visual spectacle that can capture children's imaginations, sparking conversations about history and technology. The paved paths are stroller-friendly, making it easy to navigate with younger children. While the main area is accessible, the steep trail to the river might be challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues. Consider bringing snacks and drinks, as amenities are limited. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ History Buffs & Photographers

For history enthusiasts, the USS Triton sail is a must-see artifact representing a significant chapter in naval history. The opportunity to learn about its groundbreaking circumnavigation is a key draw. Photographers will find the sail itself to be a dramatic subject, especially with the Columbia River as a backdrop. The park offers a unique blend of industrial history and natural scenery, providing diverse photographic opportunities. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The USS Triton: A Cold War Icon

The centerpiece of USS Triton Sail Park is the sail from the USS Triton (SSRN-586), a truly remarkable vessel in naval history. Commissioned in 1959, the Triton was the world's first nuclear-powered submarine and achieved a legendary feat in 1960: Operation Sandblast, the first submerged circumnavigation of the globe. This historic voyage took 60 days and covered over 26,723 nautical miles, proving the capability of nuclear propulsion for extended underwater operations. The sail itself, a prominent structure of the submarine, serves as a powerful reminder of this era of technological advancement and geopolitical tension. Reddit

Visitors can learn more about the Triton's missions and significance through informational plaques located around the sail. While the submarine itself is no longer intact, its sail stands as a monument, offering a tangible connection to the Cold War and the pioneering spirit of naval engineering. The park's location along the Columbia River adds to the contemplative atmosphere, allowing visitors to reflect on the historical context of this impressive artifact. Reddit

Exploring the Riverside Trails

Beyond the historical sail, USS Triton Sail Park offers accessible pathways for enjoying the natural beauty of the Columbia River. The main park area is paved and easy to navigate, making it a pleasant spot for a leisurely stroll. These paths provide excellent vantage points for observing the river and its surroundings, offering a peaceful contrast to the imposing military hardware.

For those seeking a more adventurous route, a paved trail extends down towards the water's edge. While this path offers a closer connection to the river, it's noted as being quite steep. Visitors should wear appropriate footwear if they plan to descend, as the incline can be challenging. This trail is ideal for those who want to experience the riverside more intimately, perhaps for birdwatching or simply enjoying the expansive water views. Reddit

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