10 Undiscovered Small Towns in Washington

What is the first thing you think of when you hear "Washington"? Is it The White House? George Washington? Few people might know that this state (not to be confused with Washington, D.C.) is also home to the rainiest town in the United States or that Washington is the birthplace of everyone’s favorite coffee shop: Starbucks. Named after President George Washington, this state has a unique history and corners to explore. This coastal state has it all, whether you enjoy wine tasting, hiking, or the great outdoors. But let us look closer at the hidden gems beneath all that commercial sediment and steer clear of busy places like Seattle. Check out these quiet retreats and why, sometimes, the roads less traveled lead to the most memorable experiences.

Republic

What used to be the largest mining camp in the Republic Mining District is now a quaint, small community of around 1,000 residents. With a host of local activities to partake in, the road less traveled offers outdoor locations like Golden Tiger Pathway Trailhead and the JW Slagle Park. More interestingly, however, is the Stonerose Interpretive Center & Eocene Fossil Site, where visitors can unearth fossils from the Eocene Epoch. Coming to this small town, one should definitely plan around attending the annual Ferry County Fair (on Labor Day weekend), a local tradition since 1937.

Ilwaco

You will find Ilwaco between the Colombia River Salmon Conservation Zone and Baker Bay; this offers ample opportunity for fishing or visiting nearby beaches. Beard’s Hollow View Point is an excellent designated area for exploring and taking pictures. A few minutes west of that is the North Head Lighthouse, also worth checking out; however, one cannot begin without first climbing the Beard’s Hollow Trailhead. Ilwaco is also home to the Columbia Pacific Heritage Museum, showcasing maritime artifacts and local history. It is also known for First Avenue's annual "Slow Drag" car race.

Roslyn

Concealed in the Cascade Mountains, Roslyn is a great example of what it is to be a hidden gem. Rich in history, this town holds many well-preserved structures from the 1800s. One can head directly to the Roslyn Museum to learn about this momentous destination, also famous for the Roslyn Cemetery—with graves dating back to 1880. On a more uplifting note, visitors might be inclined to scale these forested mountains either through the Coal Mines Trail, Dawson Park, or Washington State Horse Park. The Fish Shed trailhead—also called the Eisenberg trail—is definitely worth exploring as well.

Metaline Falls

A small community of around 200, Metaline Falls is hidden on the east bank of the Pend Oreille River, flowing north towards Canada. This town is home to the historic Cutter Theater, which also doubles as a community center. The Kirkland Cutter-Designed House is also a historical landmark. Other historical sites involve the Pend Oreille Mines and Metals Building, now called the Lewis Larson Apartments, which is the only surviving structure in town that was once part of Larson's mining empire. Aside from that, the natural landscape of Metaline Falls makes it ideal for fishing, boating, and hiking, which is best done in Falls View Park or the surrounding Pend Orelle River.

Morton

Surrounded by lush forest, Morton is the perfect escape with an attractive timber and railroad history. This small town is also known for celebrating its annual logging show, held since 1937, called the “Logger’s Jubilee.” This event is typically held in August, when travelers should also check out the famous Roxy Theater. Before exploring the landscape, it behooves one to check out the Morton Depot Museum exhibits to understand the area's rich railroad history better. Finally, walking through Gust Backstrom City Park is guaranteed to unwind even the tightest knots for the weary traveler.

Pomeroy

A neighbor of the Blue Mountains, Pomeroy is like the big brother of Pataha—an adjacent unincorporated community, just a 5-minute ride away. There you can visit the Eastern Washington Agricultural Museum or enjoy the Garfield County Fair Grounds. But Pomeroy keeps a few treasures for itself. The Garfield County Museum offers a decent slice of American pioneer history; in fact, a 10-block section of the town was placed on the National Historic Register. But suppose you have your heart set on the great outdoors. In that case, Pomeroy offers many opportunities for hunting and hiking, unless you prefer a more mellow trip to Pee Wee Park or Pomeroy City Park and unwind after a long journey on the road less traveled.

Dayton

A busy town with much to do for those seeking to uncover the hidden gems of the Pacific Northwest, Dayton is so vibrant and full of life that it will make you feel like there aren't enough hours in the day. Visit The Boldman House Museum to see the amusing history of this town and an antique collection of cars and old houses. A must-see includes a charming tourist attraction, a human-sized Jolly Green Giant with a story behind it. Loosen up at Dayton Park and take in the breezy Mediterranean climate because there is still much to explore.

Kettle Falls

This small town, named after the Kettle Falls on the Kettle River, enjoys the great privilege of being located adjacent to the Columbia River. Nature lovers would rejoice at the Kettle Falls Campground, just outside of town, where an unspoiled landscape awaits. Visitors could still enjoy all the amenities of Kettle Falls and visit Happy Dell Park, or take a look at the Kettle Falls Historical Center with exhibits on local history. This beautiful slice of paradise also hosts an annual town picnic and parade celebrating community heritage, so make sure to come the first weekend of June if you do not want to miss it.

Concrete

This charming town of only 800 residents was initially named (not nicknamed) "Cement City" due to its early days of cement production. Today, Concrete offers the perfect opportunity to explore off the beaten path. You’ll find landmarks like the historic Henry Thompson Bridge, once the largest single-span concrete bridge in the world. Numerous breathtaking sites, such as the Eagles Nest View and the Lower Baker Dam Overlook, are conveniently designated for visitors. Each year, the Cascade Days festival—with parades and contests—takes place on the third weekend of August. In the meantime, you can enjoy attractions like the Baker River Kayak Launch or Silo Park.

Goldendale

It is truly a golden opportunity to visit this small town. With views like the Cascade Mountains to the west and the Simcoe Mountains to the north, there is a lot of beauty to take in. The Goldendale Observatory State Park offers a public telescope for astronomy enthusiasts. Also, near the Maryhill Museum of Art, you will find exciting sculptures and Native American artifacts. However, one cannot come to Goldendale without planning a hike on the Observatory Hill Trails. You could also see the many staples of old life with a visit to the Presby Mansion, an iconic landmark.

So often do we struggle to take the path less traveled and so quickly do we take comfort in the familiar. As the saying goes, though, nothing ventured, nothing gained. The true explorer knows that wanderlust is not sated by going to the big cities and widely traveled areas; many treasures await those who journey off the beaten track, be that a small town in Washington or any other destination yet to be discovered as a hotspot. So why follow the trends when one can set them firsthand? That is the power of claiming the undiscovered.