If you're in the pursuit of discovering the best up-and-coming secret in SW Washington, look no further than the charming city of Washougal. Nestled on the edge of the Columbia River Gorge, just 17 miles from downtown Vancouver, Washougal is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. As your local guide, I'm Cassandra Marks, also known as Realtor Cas, and today, I'm taking you on a map tour of this amazing city to unveil its unique offerings. So, let's dive into the wonders of Washougal!

City Stats Overview

Washougal, located approximately 16.8 miles east down Hwy 14, past Camas but before the Columbia River Gorge, has a rich history. Like many places in the Pacific Northwest, it was a stop for Lewis and Clark on their westward voyage. The population, as of 2020, stands at 17,000, showing steady growth and increasing popularity over the past two decades.

Things to Do

1. Washougal Motocross Park: Established in 1970, this park is one of only three natural terrain raceways in America. It has hosted the Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship Series, making it a thrilling destination for motorsport enthusiasts.

2. Shopping at Pendleton: Immerse yourself in the PNW lifestyle by exploring Pendleton, a renowned brand. Having at least one item from Pendleton is a PNW tradition.

3. Washougal River & Columbia River: From kayaking and paddleboarding to sailing and fishing, the rivers provide a range of outdoor activities for water enthusiasts.

4. Book a Fishing Guide & Charters: Experience world-class fishing with opportunities to catch steelhead, chinook salmon, coho salmon, and even sturgeon.

5. Riverfront Development - Hyas Point: A promising development that includes the Ninebark apartment complex, commercial businesses, a public park, and a link to the Washougal Waterfront Trail.

Nature

1. Steigerwald Lake National Wildlife Refuge: Established in 1987 to offset lowland habitat loss, this refuge provides habitat for migrating and resident wildlife.

2. Sandy Swimming Hole on the Washougal River: A popular spot for locals, be sure to be respectful of the residential area and limited parking.

3. Cape Horn Lookout: Located 8.9 miles east on Hwy 14, this lookout offers breathtaking views.

4. Washougal Waterfront Park: Situated by the Port of Camas-Washougal Marina and boat launch, this park is a serene escape.

5. Cottonwood Beach: Located just south and east of downtown, this beach is accessible from the 2nd Hwy 14 roundabout, offering a perfect spot for July 4th festivities.

6. Lewis and Clark Heritage Trail: Also known as The Columbia River Dike Trail, this trail follows the Columbia River, offering historical insights.

Food

Washougal boasts a diverse culinary scene, including:

1. Doomsday Brewing Company: Known for its rotating selection of great beers and delicious pizzas.

2. Trapdoor Brewing: Great vibe, delicious beer and fun events like trivia nights.

3. Ashwood Taps and Trucks: Brewery with a parking lot full off food trucks to satisfy the food craving of the day.

4. Hello Waffle Cart: Satisfy your cravings with both savory and sweet waffles, including the popular banana and Nutella waffle.

5. K&M Drive-In: Indulge in a juicy burger paired with a delicious milkshake.

6. The Pit BBQ: Open for just over a year, it has quickly become a favorite spot for ribs enthusiasts.

7. The Puffin Cafe: A haven for taco connoisseurs, offering tantalizing options like tropical shrimp tacos with mango.

8. Kokomo Express: A women-owned coffee stop that adds a delightful touch to your day.

Shopping

While Washougal has Safeway and some small markets, major chain stores are accessible off of  both192nd and 164th in Vancouver.

Schools

Washougal boasts a well-rounded education system with four elementary schools, two middle schools, and one high school. The student-to-teacher ratio is approximately 20:1. Some Washougal students attend Camas High School.

More school info can be found on Niche.com or on GreatSchools.org. I even did the searches for you or visit the Washougal ISD webpage.

Housing

Washougal features a diverse mix of homes in terms of size, style, and age. Recent years have seen significant development, including projects by builders like Toll Brothers and Kingston Homes at Lookout Ridge. The median sales price is around $636,000, showcasing a stable real estate market.

Check out some Homes for Sale in Washougal.... Peep them Here 👀

Other Great Resources on Washougal, WA:

1. City of Washougal, WA - https://www.cityofwashougal.us/
2. Visit Washougal WA - https://visitwashougal.com/
3. Port of Camas-Washougal - https://portcw.com/

Washougal, with its rich history, diverse activities, and growing community, stands as a true hidden gem in SW Washington. This comprehensive guide provides a glimpse into the city's offerings, making it an attractive destination for those seeking a blend of nature, adventure, and community. Whether you're considering a visit or contemplating a move, Washougal welcomes you with open arms. As Realtor Cas, I'm here to assist you in exploring this incredible city. Until next time, happy exploring!