The Wanapum Heritage Center is set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Columbia River, where the
landscape transitions from rugged canyons to expansive riverbanks. Towering basalt cliffs stand as
sentinels, reflecting the eons of natural and cultural history embedded in the region. With its dramatic
vistas and beauty, the Columbia River Gorge adds a layer of majesty to the Wanapum Heritage Center’s
surroundings.
As the cultural center of the Wanapum Band, the Wanapum Heritage Center embodies the Tribe’s
commitment to preserving and sharing its rich cultural heritage. The Wanapum people have called the
Columbia River Basin home for generations, and their deep connection to the land is evident in the
exhibits, artifacts, and stories housed within the center.
Wanapum means river people. The Tribe was originally located in Washington along the Columbia River.
Lewis and Clark meet with the Wanapum at the mouth of Snake River, having finally reached the
Columbia River long into their travels. It is there they met the Wanapum people, who were fishing salmon
from the Columbia River during the autumn salmon run. The meeting was peaceful between the Corps’
and the two hundred men Wanapum and Chief Cutssahnem. They shared tobacco, played drums and
sang before holding a meeting where Lewis and Clark presented Chief Cutssahnem with a peace medal
along with other presents.
Distance Unit:
14 Jefferson Avenue, Toppenish, Washington 98948, USA
Distance: 27.99 Away
Galleries and Venues Tribal Experiences
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Yakama Nation Cultural Center, Toppenish, WA, USA
Distance: 28.84 Away
Museums and Interpretive Centers Tribal Experiences
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Johnson Orchards, Summitview Avenue, Yakima, WA, USA
Distance: 32.54 Away
Farms Outdoor Experiences Food and Drinks
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Frichette, North Sunset Road, Benton City, WA, USA
Distance: 34.20 Away
1943 Columbia Park Trail, Richland, WA, USA
Distance: 43.61 Away
Guided Tours Museums and Interpretive Centers
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1551 Simcoe Creek Road, White Swan, Washington 98952, USA
Distance: 47.34 Away
Tribal Experiences Outdoor Experiences
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Sacajawea Historical State Park, Sacajawea Park Road, Pasco, WA, USA
Distance: 51.60 Away
Museums and Interpretive Centers Outdoor Experiences LC Features
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2503 Sacajawea Park Rd, Pasco, WA 99301, USA
Distance: 51.68 Away
Galleries and Venues Tribal Experiences
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5XX8+3R Pasco, WA, USA
Distance: 52.03 Away
Galleries and Venues Tribal Experiences Outdoor Experiences
View ListingOur bi-weekly newsletter provides news, history, and information for those interested in traveling along along the Lewis & Clark Trail.