Priest Rapids, Rapids in Columbia River, Washington
Description
Priest Rapids is a section of the Columbia River where the waterway narrows and drops through seven separate cataracts spaced over roughly 14 kilometers, creating a series of powerful white-water features.
History
The name dates to 1811, when fur trader Alexander Ross encountered a Wanapum shaman called Haquilaugh and named the rapids in reference to this meeting.
Culture
This location served as a vital fishing center for the Wanapum people, who relied on the river's resources for sustenance over many generations.
Practical
A dam built in the 1950s now controls the water flow through this section, harnessing the river's power for electricity generation.
Did you know?
Before the dam was built, the water dropped roughly 20 feet in a concentrated section, making this one of the most dramatic descents along the entire Columbia River.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Washington).
The Gorge Amphitheatre
38.6 km
B Reactor
28.4 km
Ginkgo Petrified Forest State Park
21.7 km
Iron Horse State Park
23.8 km
Yakima SunDome
43.4 km
Grandfather Cuts Loose the Ponies
23.5 km
Wanapum Dam
13.4 km
Priest Rapids Dam
13.3 km
Wild Horse Wind and Solar Facility
34.7 km
Whiskey Dick Mountain
36 km
Vantage Bridge
21 km
Fred G. Redmon Bridge
36.3 km
Columbia National Wildlife Refuge
34.8 km
Olmstead Place State Park
45 km
Beverly Railroad Bridge
8.7 km
Yakima Electric Railway Museum
44.8 km
Capitol Theatre, Yakima
43.8 km
St. Paul Cathedral
45.9 km
Vernita Bridge
22.1 km
A. E. Larson Building
44 km
William O. Douglas Federal Building
43.8 km
Umtanum Ridge Water Gap
44.9 km
Wanapum Lake
13.2 km
Masonic Temple
43.8 kmSentinel Gap
6.3 km
Powell House
43.2 km
Reuben Sweet House
45.8 km
Naches River Railroad Bridge
44.2 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes