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Yakima, Washington’s Craft Brew Trail

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Hops just starting to grow in Yakima

Hops just starting to grow in Yakima

Yakima, Washington. I’m gonna go out on a limb here and say that most of you reading this have probably never heard of this little town in Eastern Washington. I even imagine some of you wondering at the fact that there are cities besides Seattle within the rather large boundaries of this Pacific Northwest state. Well, there are, and Yakima is one of them.  And in case you’re wondering why you would ever want to know about this valley region, relax, cause I’ma tell ya. (Hint: it involves one epic craft brew trail.)

Yakima Facts

You hear Washington and I’m guessing you conjure up images of grey skies and buckets of rain. Well, that may be Seattle’s well-earned reputation, but Yakima actually gets something like 300 days of sun a year. That’s pretty tight. And why does it get 300 days of sun a year? because it’s a desert, that’s why. Didn’t know Washington State had deserts? You do now.

The desert-y valley in which Yakima is located, aptly named the Yakima Valley, consists of many smallish cities, but Yakima is the heart of the local craft brewing industry. Fun fact: the Yakima Valley grows 75% of the entire country’s hops (that’s what’s used to make beer). Occasionally, they grow more than anywhere else in the world (Germany tussles for that title, too).

Wine grapes are also a pretty big industry, as the valley grows 50% of Washington’s wine grapes. But you didn’t come here to read about wine, you came to read about beer. And maybe cider. I’m a cider girl, myself.

In 2005 there were two craft breweries in Yakima. Two. Can you believe it? In a place that makes its living on hops, you’d think there would be more than that. Fortunately, somebody eventually got a clue and craft breweries started popping up everywhere. But mostly in Yakima. Now there are nearly a dozen, with two more opening this spring and summer. That’s plenty for a craft brew trail.

Cowiche Canyon in Yakima, Washington is a prime example of the desert landscape

Cowiche Canyon in Yakima, Washington is a prime example of the desert landscape

Wine tour, shmine tour; take a craft beverage tour

Wine tastings make me nervous. not only do I not like wine, I always feel like I’m not fancy enough in my athletic shorts and cut-off tee to be allowed to participate in this sort of thing. But I guess that’s on me. I don’t particularly like beer, either, but I don’t feel as judged for showing up in a holey flannel and a tank top. I call it backpacker chic and it’s a thing, OK? Well, if you feel the same, then break out the map and head to Eastern Washington for a self-guided trip to these Yakima Valley craft breweries.

Meghann Quinn, owner of Bale Breaker Brewing Company

Meghann Quinn, owner of Bale Breaker Brewing Company

Bale Breaker Brewing Co.

This is the only known brewery on a commercial hop farm, and it’s run by a lady who prioritizes education for women in the beer industry. Two thumbs up.

Berchman’s Brewing

A nano-brewery with a taproom in downtown Yakima.

Bron Yr Aur Brewing Co.

That’s brawn-yar to you, son. It’s located farther out near the gateway to the Cascades. The views of the river are worth the drive.

Cowiche Creek Brewing Co.

They don’t just brew beer, they build it. It’s a small operation, so make sure they’re open before you go knocking.

Hop Nation Brewing Co.

This joint is located in a 100-year-old hop warehouse in Yakima. They do beer, BBQ and events, too.

Redifer Brewing Co.

They like people that like beer, apparently. But they’re opening this summer, so stay tuned.

Single Hill Brewing

They serve their flagship stuff, obviously, but also daily experimental beers. Daily.

Valley Brewing Co.

Want a unique tasting room/brewpub? This is your place.

Yakima Craft Brewing Co.

Proud of the city they call home and proud to be using one of that city’s founding brewer’s boil kettles.

Cider everywhere at Tie-in Cider Works in Yakima

Cider everywhere at Tie-in Cider Works in Yakima

Tieton Cider Works

This is my jam. A cidery that started as an orchard. Strong ciders and unique seasonal flavors that make both visitors and locals go wild.

Wandering Hop Brewing Co.

A taproom with a beer inspired by travel and a big ol’ world map on the wall? Yes, please!

Varietal Beer Co.

As the name would suggest, they’re brewing up a wide range of varietals of beer. Using, of course, a range of hop varietals. From the Yakima Valley, natch. Just opened this spring!

Snipes Mountain Brewery

We’d probably go to this Sunnyside brewery just for the name. It’s already conjuring up memories of sending my little sister into the woods to find fictional creatures…

 

Find an interactive craft brew trail map here. to plot your route from beginning to end and wander on!

Yakima Valley Craft Beverage Map

Yakima Valley Craft Beverage Map

Yakima Craft Beverage Map

Yakima Craft Beverage Map