Discover Walla Walla

A growing trend in the United States - and around the world - is a greater attention to mankind's impact on the natural environment. From water conservation to green transportation, people across the country are starting to notice more and more how their personal lifestyles affect the earth as a whole.

Walla Walla is no exception. One of the valley's most iconic areas is the skyline to the west. Dotted with windmills, the hills serve double duty as fields for both crops and sustainable energy production. The 200-foot-high towers were built in Denmark and, before their erection in 2001, were predicted to pump out enough energy for 75,000 families. (Oh yes, it gets windy in Walla Walla.)

Want a closer look? Take Highway 12 west to Wallula Junction. Instead of taking a slight right at the junction, continue straight. Just past the turn you will see buildings on the left. On the far side of the buildings, turn left onto a gravel road. Follow the road up the hill.

From this road you can not only get an up close and personal view of the wind turbines, but you're also sure to find a good viewing spot for watching the lights of the valley below come on as the sun goes down. Bring a star chart and a thermos of hot chocolate and make it a date! Be lulled into the night by the constant humming tune of sustainable energy.