LAUREN GALLUP: For years, the Yakama Nation has fought to restrict access to one of its most sacred sites outside the Tri-Cities. Rattlesnake Mountain, or Laliik [luh-LEEK], is one of the highest points in the region. And some hikers want access.NWPB’s senior correspondent Courtney Flatt has more.

COURTNEY FLATT: More than a decade ago, Congressman Doc Hastings tacked on a provision to a must-pass bill. It allowed some access to Rattlesnake Mountain, like with wildflower tours. The Yakama Nation had filed a restraining order to stop the tours. The mountain is a traditional cultural property.

More recently, the Biden administration vowed to give tribes more authority in managing the mountain. Phil Rigdon is with the Yakama Nation. He spoke at a recent forum hosted by a local nonprofit. 

PHIL RIGDON: “We as people are connected to place. Our people are connected to the land and these things that have provided to us over time.”

FLATT: He says this mountain is one of those cornerstones. Hikers asked if the tribe would consider a one-day pass once a year. But Rigdon says there’s always someone who won’t respect the area’s sacredness.

I’m Courtney Flatt.