- Round-trip mileage: Approximately 1 mile
- Difficulty: Easy
- Elevation: Flat, no elevation gain
- Warning: Standing Water along trail, watch small children closely
View Audubon Trail – Columbia Park Trailhead in a larger map
Directions to trailhead:
The trailhead main entrance is along Columbia Park Trail in Columbia Park. Take the Edison Street exit off Highway 240 in Kennewick (west of the Blue Bridge). Head toward the river and turn right on Columbia Park Trail. Go approximately .3 miles east to a parking area along the river side of the road. The Audubon trail is on the opposite side of the road.
The Audubon Trail’s official name is the Dr. Rod Coler Audubon Nature Trail. You can read more about the trail history by clicking on this link to the Lower Columbia Basin Audubon Society.
As you can see from this sign at the entrance, the trail is made up of three connected loops. You probably wouldn’t expect this outdoorsy of an experience right in Columbia Park but this is really en enjoyable walk.
The trail is paved and winds through Russian Olive trees and other foliage. There is a pond in the middle of the easternmost loop that is home to several birds and other creatures.
There are several side trails available for exploring. It is neat to think that this little nature experience is right along highway 240 but you don’t really even notice.
Highway 240 Alongside the Trail
The length of your walk can vary. It is all paved so it is appropriate for wheelchairs or strollers. One side trail leads to an elevated viewing platform.
The trail has seen numerous improvements over the years.
Several Eagle Scouts have done projects to inform the public about local history including the Great Floods, Kennewick Man, and more recent history of the Tri-Cities area.
Kennewick Man Display
Great Floods Display
Local History Display
This is a very pleasant way to spend a lunch break or some free time without having to drive too far.