Franklin Connection - Serving Franklin County, WA

VERNITA – Hillclimb racing returns to Rattlesnake Ridge from May 6-8 following two years of being shuttered.

The Washington Nitro Nationals returns with gasoline, methane and nitrous-oxide motorcycle racers putting their machines and their skills against a 1,000-foot course at the intersection of state Highways 241 and 24, conveniently located between Yakima and Hanford, north of Sunnyside.

The North American Hillclimbers Association Pro Hillclimb Series event in at the now renamed Rattlesnake Ridge ORV Park.

"This is hillclimbing at its best," spokesman John Nyboer said. "Come watch the nation's fastest professional riders tackle the demanding course in under 20 seconds."

Tickets cost $15 per day and a weekend pass is $45.

Camping is also available on-site during the entire weekend, with campsites ranging in price from $40-$150.

Tickets are available online at washingtonnitro.com and at the gate.

Roger Harnack | Franklin Connection

While there won't be amateur hillclimb classes, there will be Pitbike Racing starting at about 5 p.m. Friday.

There will be two rounds of world-class pro hillclimbing starting at 8:30 a.m. Saturday and Sunday.

And for the first time ever, there will be two King of The Hill Cash Climbs following the finals.

"This adrenaline-charged, family-friendly event will have something for everyone," Nyboer said. "There will be food and product vendors, and a chance to meet, greet and get autographs from the pros. Be sure to get your picture taken with them, too.

For rider registration, and tickets and camping information, visit our website at washingtonnitro.com, or log onto our Washington Nitro Nationals Pro Hillclimb Facebook page.