Whitman Mission National Historic Site
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The murder of frontier missionaries Marcus and Narcissa Whitman at the confluence of the Columbia and Walla Walla Rivers near Walla Walla, Washington, initiated a chain of events that ended with the Columbia Plateau Indians being placed on reservations to protect settlers who followed the Oregon Trail to its end. Tensions between the Whitmans and the Cayuse people are thought to have led to the murders. After Native American leaders had visited the mission established by the couple earlier in the day supposedly seeking medical advice, 60 members of the Cayuse tribe returned near midnight, killing the couple along with 11 or 12 other people living at the mission that they had established. As a result of the murders, President Polk quickly signed a bill declaring the area around where the couple lived the Oregon Territory, making it the first place west of the Rocky Mountains to be under U.S. control. This action led to the Cayuse War of 1848-1850 and many Native Americans were brought to trial in Oregon City. Learn more about the story from both perspectives by visiting the site where the murders took place.
Things To Do Near Whitman Mission National Historic Site
Stop at the Whitman Mission Museum to learn more about the events that transpired before and after November 29, 1847, when Doctor Whitman, his wife, and those living at the Presbyterian Church mission were brutally murdered. The grounds of this historical site are a fantastic place to view wildlife and have a picnic in one of the shelters.
Hiking Trails
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Whitman Mission National Historic Site Trail
The Whitman Mission National Historic Site Trail starts outside the visitor center. It passes by the cemetery where the victims were buried before reaching the monument constructed to remember Doctor Whitman and his wife. Enjoy stunning views of the whole area as you stroll back to the starting point.
Location
Whitman Mission National Historic Site, 328 Whitman Mission Road, Walla Walla, WA 99362
Length
0.5 miles
Intensity
Easy
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Rowena Plateau Trail
The Rowena Plateau Trail starts in the Tom McCall Preserve. Climb up the hill as the trees gradually get closer together on this old wagon route trail. Then, this route turns westward and runs through meadows before finally ascending to the summit of McCall Point.
Location
Tom McCall Preserve, Old Historic Columbia River Highway, Mosier, OR 97040
Length
3.4 miles
Intensity
Moderate
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Trail of Ten Falls
The Trail of Ten Falls allows you to see 10 waterfalls at Silver Falls State Park. This trail is positioned to walk under two of the falls and see four others from the front and back. It also features rocky outcroppings and a fantastic area to explore with sword ferns.
Location
Silver Falls State Park, 20024 Silver Falls Highway Southeast, Sublimity, OR 97385
Length
8.5 miles
Intensity
Moderate
Sightseeing
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Pioneer Park
See some of the oldest roses in America at Pioneer Park. This park was founded in 1902. If you have children along, they will love the spacious playground.
Location
940 East Alder Street, Walla Walla, WA 99362
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Frenchtown Historic Site
The Prince’s Cabin at the Frenchtown Historic Site is the oldest example of French-Canadian architecture in Washington. Stroll through the historic cemetery and read the interpretative signage to learn about some of the earliest settlers. Learn about how fur trading led to the development of this city.
Location
8364 Old Highway 12, Walla Walla, WA 99362
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Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area
Drive along the Old Columbia River Highway from Troutdale and end in The Dalles to see the fantastic scenery of the Columbia River Gorge. Stop at the Vesta House to see the antique stained-glass windows and enjoy the view. The river is an excellent place for a kayaking adventure.
Location
Hood River, OR 97031
Museums
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Kirkman House Museum
Learn about life during the Victorian era at the Kirkman House Museum. Workers completed building this home in 1880. It is filled with early Walla Walla artifacts and Victorian living accessories.
Location
214 North Colville Street, Walla Walla, WA 99362
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Fort Walla Walla Museum
Explore Indian culture, military establishment, pioneer settlement, and horse-era agriculture at the Fort Walla Walla Museum. There are 17 pioneer buildings to explore and special programming scheduled often at this museum.
Location
755 Myra Road, Walla Walla, WA 99362
Nearby Shops and Restaurants
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My Grandmother’s Garden
Find lovingly grown plants at My Grandmother’s Garden. They also feature seasonal produce and home décor.
Location
2946 S. 3rd Ave., Walla Walla, WA 99362
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35&Butter
Find a wide assortment of merchandise at 35&Butter, like women’s lingerie, spices, and home décor. You can also find locally produced sweets. Many of their offerings have a nature theme.
Location
15 E. Main St., Walla Walla, WA 99362
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Graze
Get hot soups, fresh sandwiches, and filling salads at Graze. One of their soups is always vegetarian. Be sure to leave room for their delicious chocolate brownies.
Location
5 S. Colville St., Walla Walla, WA 99362
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The Maple County Café
The team at The Maple County Café counts on quality produce and meats to create down-home entrees. They offer inside and outside seating for breakfast and lunch. Consider starting the day with one of their baked omelets.
Location
209 E. Alder St., Walla Walla, WA 99362
How To Get To Whitman Mission National Historic Site
It is easy to get to Whitman Mission National Historic Site from Seattle in about 4 hours. Start by taking Interstate 5 South. Exit onto Interstate 90 East. Take Exit 137 and get on Washington 26 East. Turn right on Washington 243 South. At the traffic circle, take the second exit to stay on Washington 243 South. It will become Washington 24 West, and then it becomes Washington 240 East. When this road runs concurrently with Interstate 182 East, follow the interstate. Turn left to get on US 12 East. Turn right on Old Highway 12 and another right on Sweagle Road. Finally, turn left on Whitman Mission Road.
Address
328 Whitman Mission Road, Walla Walla, WA 99362
Fee: Entry fee $0
Learn more about the Oregon Trail’s history by visiting the Whitman Mission National Historic Site. Events at this site led to the formation of the Oregon Territory and forced Native Americans to live on reservations. The best way to explore this scenic area is in an RV. If you do not have one, then rent one on RVshare.com. You can discover all the shopping, hiking, sightseeing, and dining opportunities found in this area.
