Do you have a bit of that exploring, pioneer spirit in you? You might find your bliss in the Summit Valley, WA, which is located in Summit View, WA was discovered in 1805 by the Lewis and Clark expedition. Lewis and Clark discovered all the wildlife and excellent soil conditions that brought many homesteaders to the gorgeous Yakima Valley region.
Summit View is a census designated place or CDP in Yakima County, Washington, located just west of the town of Yakima proper in Eastern Washington. Just two hours from the Seattle metro area, it's also close to the Yakima River, and a good jumping off point to visit Mount Ranier National Park, whose majestic peak can be seen for miles around.
Moving to Town
When you look for a rental in this community, you should explore the area driving or on foot, to find both the best area for you, and to look for those elusive For Rent signs - sometimes you'll spot a rental that way you can't find otherwise! Check into online resources though, because you'll be sure to find 1 bedroom apartments for rent, house rentals, and duplexes for rent that way, too. And check out the rental listings in the Yakima Herald Republic as well, when looking for that apartment rental.
Commuting Time
You'll need a car when you move here, as public transit options are limited. But you'll find commute times don't take too long - between 15 and 30 minutes each way.
Looking for Your Home When should you look for a rental? Any time of year, as the temperature is mild, year round. Summers are warm and winters can be a bit chilly, but you're not looking at snow drifts or wicked wind chill. There are not a lot of vacancies at any given time, so give yourself about a month at least to find a rental in this highly sought-after community. When you do find the property you want, make sure you have what your future landlord wants - ID, rental history information, W2s or other proof of employment.
Neighborhoods in Summit View
This is a pleasant community in a relatively dry part of Washington State - if you're turned off by Seattle's famously rainy climate, you'll be glad to know that you won't find that here!
Summit View: There is only one neighborhood in Summit View, which is bordered by the larger community of Yakima. Here you'll find West Valley Community Park, the Apple Tree Golf Course, and the Meadowbrook Family Fun Center. This is a popular suburban neighborhood with a limited number of vacancies at any given time. Rental opportunities include medium sized to large single family homes and mobile homes primarily, but you can also find some apartments and duplexes for rent. Many properties are new, built since 2000.
Life in Summit View, WA
Located close to the Yakima River, and both I-82 and I-90, this area is a must-live if you like mountains, nearby stunning wilderness, and the comfortable amenities a larger community such as Yakima, with which it adjoins. In short, you can have your nature and your shops and restaurants, too.
Peaks and Valleys
Starting with nature, where should you look first? The snowy peak of Mount Rainier in Mount Rainier National Park? Mount Baker-Snoqualamie National Forrest? Hiking, exploring, bird and wildlife watching, all of these rich experiences are within an hour to an hour and a half of your doorstep.
A River Runs Here
Even closer, less than fifteen minutes away, you'll find the Yakima River, which runs through the community from its source at Lake Keechelus, its own recreational paradise, connected to the Columbia River. Fishing, swimming, a wildlife sanctuary, and a walking and cycling trail are all a part of life at the river's edge. And the Yakima isn't the only river flowing through the area, the Naches River and several small lakes flanking it make this one of the wettest areas in the arid part of the state. Check out pretty Myron lake, Lake Aspen, and Rotary Lake, where you will find fishermen and swimmers when the weather is warm.
History with a View and Art Lovers, Too
Of course, it's not all about the outdoor life here. The Yakima Valley Museum is a cultural force, hosting natural and cultural history exhibits including a restored classic soda fountain which may just fool you into ordering a sarsaparilla. In downtown Yakima, you'll find the Capitol Theater, as well as the Seasons Performance Hall where many touring acts perform. The Allied Arts Center nearby stages theatrical and musical productions. Like art? Try the Larson Gallery which offers six art exhibits yearly. And you can get your classical music on with the sounds of the Yakima Symphony Orchestra.
Flower lovers, rejoice. For a beautiful botanic garden experience, check out the Yakima Area Arboretum which shows off both the regions native and non-native flora.
Fair thee well
Over in State Fair Park, there's an annual state fair of course, the Central Washington State Fair is held every September, replete with midway games, carnival rides, agricultural exhibits, and music offerings. The Yakima Sun Dome is located here, and there are many other events including concerts of all types, held here when the fair is not going on. The Sun Dome also hosts the Warriors and Sun Kings sports teams. If you like minor league football, check out the Yakima Mavericks.
Traditions and Treats
The State Fair isn't the only community tradition to mark the seasons. Like to quaff a cold IPA or two? Check out the Fresh Hop Ale Festival, held in downtown Yakima every October. In August, you'll find A Case of the Blues and All that Jazz, a blues and jazz musical fest held in Sarg Habbard Park. Franklin Park meanwhile hosts July's musical delight, the Yakima Folklife Festival, with crafts and art as well as music.
Summit View has a number of fine dining establishments, including Ozeki Japanese Restaurant, right on Summitview Avenue. Also nearby is Antojito's Mexicano Restaurant, where you'll find many a tasty taco. Ballesteri's Coffee House offers more than just a tasty brew - they have breakfast omelets that locals love. And rounding out the collection of tasty ethnic eateries, try the family owned Burger Ranch for some all-American fries and burgers of course.
Shoppers also have handy access to what delights, at the Valley Mall in nearby Union Gap. When you need help with home furnishings or last minute groceries, a Wal-Mart Supercenter is sure to have what you need.