Welcome to Washougal
Charming rural enclave with great outdoor treasures
A small community situated on the west entrance to the Columbia River Gorge, eighteen miles east of Vancouver, Washougal brims with rural appeal and plenty of recreation found on its meandering trails, family-friendly parks, and charming neighborhoods filled with stunning properties. It is bordered by both the Columbia and Washougal Rivers, the latter of which actually runs through town.
Lying 15 minutes away from Portland, residents not only enjoy views of the neighboring city across the river but also easy access to the Portland International Airport among other big city perks. Families are drawn to Washougal for its low property tax, and gorgeous, natural scenery. Downtown brims with local restaurants/pubs and local conveniences such as a hardware store, post office and city hall, while the town enjoys a mild climate with warm summers and moderate rainfall each year.
Washougal's beautiful topography with rolling hills and amazing views are filled with custom-built homes overlooking the Columbia River to craftsman-style residences with water frontage and vintage ranch homes that fit into a multitude of price points and budgets.
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What to Love
- Small-town living with access to big-city amenities
- Thrilling water adventures in Washougal River
- Orchard Hills Golf and Country Club
- Christmas tree lighting in the holiday season
- Convenient access to the Columbia River for boating and recreation.
Local Lifestyle
Washougal balances the appeal of small-town living with access to the big city. Gradually growing, its sweet spot between two rivers makes this Portland suburb a dream come true for water sport enthusiasts who can always be found kayaking, swimming, and paddle boarding across the river. This lovely location also fills Washougal with homes offering direct views of the Columbia River Gorge, hence living up to its reputation as the gateway to the Columbia River Gorge. Everything needed for comfortable living is just at arm's reach, and if you're yearning for a taste of Portland's vibrant cultural scene, a short drive from home is all it takes!
History & Culture
Washougal, Washington, is steeped in a rich history that traces back to its earliest settlers and intertwines with the evolution of its vibrant community and cultural landmarks. The town's origins are linked to the pioneering families like Richard and Betsy Ough, who are considered among the first to make their home in the area around 1841. Their contribution, along with other early settlers, helped shape the foundational community of Washougal, which was officially platted in 1880 by Joseph E. C. Durgan and Captain Lewis Love after purchasing land from Richard Ough.
Culturally, Washougal has blossomed into a hub for arts and historical preservation, evidenced by the presence of the Two Rivers Heritage Museum and various public art installations that dot the cityscape. The museum itself offers insights into local history and houses extensive collections, including Native American artifacts, which underscore the region's deep historical roots​​. Additionally, the Washougal Arts and Culture Alliance actively promotes the local art scene, supporting initiatives like the public art tour that showcases nearly 50 installations ranging from whimsical to historic pieces throughout the town​​. This melding of history and modern cultural expression gives Washougal its unique character and continues to draw both residents and visitors to engage with its heritage and community-driven art projects.
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
Waterfront dining attains a whole new level at the vibrant, tropical Puffin Cafe, where the menu is filled with lip-smacking Caribbean cuisine and cocktails served on a riverfront deck. Pull up at K&M Drive-In and place an order for tater tots and a strawberry milkshake, or come into 2 Rivers Bar & Grill, and treat yourself to a plate of ribs and fries served with a refreshing cocktail. Grab a beer and a Bavarian pretzel at 5440 Brewery after work and catch up with friends. Take a trip up the Washougal River and check out the Washougal River Mercantile for some Sasquatch souvenirs or just to grab a few groceries or bite to eat.
Things to Do
In Washougal, you're never far from a park, trail, or river, so whatever outdoor adventure you've got on your mind, there's a big chance you've got a venue for it right at your fingertips. Are you experienced with tubing or whitewater rafting? If yes, come along with your helmet, and float across the roaring rapids of the Washougal River on a raft, paddleboard, or kayak!
Located east of town, Steigerwald National Wildlife Refuge offers unique wildlife viewing year-round on the Gibbons Creek Wildlife Art Trail. Head out and browse Pendleton for world-famous wool blankets, decor items, and linen, and don't miss out on a tour of the museum while you're there! The store offers the largest selection of Pendleton fabric and remnants and mill ends from America's premier woolen mill.
Take the whole family out to enjoy race days at Washougal Motocross - a racetrack set amid rolling, wooded hills. Whether it's amateurs racing or the big Pro guys, a lot of fun is guaranteed.
Transportation
Washougal, Washington offers a variety of transportation options for its residents and visitors. The primary public transit service in the area is provided by C-TRAN, which operates several routes including the #92 Camas/Washougal route that connects the city to other parts of Clark County and extends express services to Portland's downtown and other major districts. C-TRAN is noted for its efficient and comprehensive service that accommodates a range of transit needs.
For those traveling further afield, Washougal's proximity to major highways such as State Route 14 facilitates easy access to the surrounding regions and beyond. Additionally, Portland International Airport (PDX) is conveniently located about a 21-minute drive from Washougal, offering extensive domestic and international flights. This close proximity to a major airport, combined with local public transit options and accessible highways, makes Washougal a strategically positioned hub for both local and long-distance travel​.
Arts & Entertainment
Washougal boasts a lively arts and entertainment scene that reflects its community's creative spirit. The area is actively developing its cultural offerings, with initiatives like the Washougal Songcraft Festival spearheaded by local residents Christopher and Stephanie Corbell. This festival and the proposed small performing arts center aim to enhance the local arts scene by providing a platform for songwriting and performances right in downtown Washougal. This initiative not only supports local artists but also integrates arts deeply into the community fabric.
Moreover, Washougal supports a range of artistic expressions through its Washougal Arts and Culture Alliance (WACA), which was established to enrich and engage the community through various art displays and supports regional artists. Key sites include the "Experience the Elements" project featuring sculptures representing the four elements across local parks, and the SR-14 Pedestrian Tunnel which connects the town to the scenic Columbia River​​. This blend of community-driven projects and supportive artistic endeavors helps to cultivate a rich cultural identity for Washougal, making it a vibrant place for both residents and visitors to explore and enjoy.
Schools
Washougal is served by the Washougal School District. A few of the neighborhood's educational institutions include:
