Trail Snacks to Summit Goals: Hiking the Tri-Cities with Kids (and One Ambitious Husband)

When we moved to the Tri-Cities, we knew we wanted more outdoor adventures for our family—but we didn’t expect to fall so hard for hiking. Turns out, when you trade Mississippi humidity for dry desert air and panoramic views, it’s hard not to get hooked.

Over the past few months, we’ve been lacing up our sneakers, loading up the snack bags, and hitting some of the area’s most popular trails: Badger Mountain, Candy Mountain, and the Rattlesnake Dance Trail.

Spoiler alert: the kids crushed it. I survived. And my husband? He’s now plotting to turn us into a full-blown mountain-climbing couple. Pray for me.

Badger Mountain: Our “We’re Actually Doing This” Hike

Badger was our first big local hike—and by “big,” I mean big for a family of five plus a dog who thinks he’s part mountain goat. The trail is wide and well-kept, but don’t let that fool you: it’s a steady incline that had my calves singing by the halfway point. Luckily the kids wanted to stop and rest, take some photos. Did you know you can see the Columbia River Temple from Badger Mountain? An older couple passed us and gave words of encouragement to the kids. When we were 3/4 of the way to the top, we saw them again (they were far above us but visible) and they called down more words of encouragement, which was not only really sweet but very much needed by that point.

The kids powered up like champs (turns out bribing with gummy bears really does work), and the views at the top? Absolutely worth every breathless moment. You can see the whole Tri-Cities area from up there. Even our 11-year-old, who usually plays it cool, said, “Okay, that was actually pretty awesome.” Maybe one of my favorite parts was when we made it to the top the older couple was there and cheered for us and celebrated like we had just finished a big race. It was such a touching moment and as one of our first adventures in the Tri-Cities it made me feel like we were exactly where we were supposed to be.

Rattlesnake Dance Trail: Don’t Worry, It’s Just the Name (We Think)

This one’s tucked away and a little less trafficked, which made it feel like our own little secret trail. It winds through wild sagebrush, with plenty of shade and just enough uphill to make you feel like you earned your pizza and movie night afterward.

The boys turned it into a competition, that they lost because no one was going to beat the dog. This one we didn't make it to the top, it was a bit too rocky, and the boys didn't have good hiking shoes (Add those to Amazon cart) so they slipped a few too many times in areas that scared me, so we made it to a plateau of the first half and called it good. We did still turn it into a mini photo shoot because it was such a beautiful area. The kids danced and posed. The dog got a victory treat. The cat? Still at home, still judging. We all walked away dusty, happy, and a little more in love with this rugged corner of Washington.

Candy Mountain: Sweet Name, Sneaky Burn

With a name like Candy Mountain, we expected a breezy stroll. Surprise! It’s shorter than Badger, but don’t underestimate the incline. This one earned its name not from ease, but from the reward: sweeping views and the feeling of accomplishment... plus the actual candy we brought to celebrate at the top.

When we got to the parking lot and realized we weren't starting at the base of the mountain I was a bit concerned. The trail was 2.7 miles to the top, plus we'd have to walk the 2.7 miles back to our van. I was not sure the kids would make it but, Double Surprise, not only did they hike the whole thing, but there was also ZERO complaining! I know, hard to believe, I was there, and I still can't believe it. 

At the top was a gravestone plaque and it had a motto on it that I loved. It said, "Don't let your children grow up without you." That was one of the reasons we moved to Tri-Cities. We wanted to have a better work/life balance and be in a place where we could go out and adventure with our kids and make memories. It was another great reminder of why we are here and confirmation in that choice.

And Then… My Husband Dropped the Bombshell

As we stood at the top of Candy Mountain, admiring the Columbia River winding through the valley, my husband turned to me and said:

“What if you and I started training for a real mountain? Like Mount Adams? Or even Hood?”

Cue me blinking into the sun like, “Sir, I just hiked 2.7 miles with a backpack full of Capri Suns and emergency socks. Let me live.”

But he was serious. He’s got the spark now, reading up on gear, checking trail reports, casually mentioning crampons at dinner like that’s a normal word. And you know what? I think I might be in. Did it have anything to do with the fact that he said if I didn't want to do it, he would see if his youngest brother who is currently living in Idaho would want to join him and my competitive side won out... maybe... Dustin can come watch the kids, I'll climb the mountains. 

From Trails to Peaks

So here we are—weekend hikers with big dreams and muddy shoes. We’re planning to keep hitting local trails, maybe step it up to some longer treks this summer and see where this mountain-sized ambition takes us.

The best part? It’s something we’re doing together. As a couple, as a family, as a crew of slightly chaotic outdoor explorers. I love making memories and being outdoors. 

Whether you’re new to the Tri-Cities or just looking for a reason to lace up your sneakers, trust me: these trails are the perfect place to start. And who knows? Maybe I’ll see you at the summit of Mount Hood someday.

But for now... pass the trail mix and let’s keep climbing.

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Have you hiked the Tri-Cities trails or tackled a bigger mountain? Got tips for beginner climbers (or dealing with overly enthusiastic spouses)? Let’s chat in the comments!