Klickitat County Interactive Map
If you’re planning a trip to Washington State, don’t miss out on Klickitat County. Known for its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and outdoor adventures, this county has something to offer for every kind of traveler. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll cover the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports.
Top Attractions
Klickitat County boasts several must-visit attractions, including the Maryhill Museum of Art, the Goldendale Observatory State Park, and the Columbia Hills State Park. The Maryhill Museum of Art houses an extensive collection of art from around the world, while the Goldendale Observatory State Park is a great place for stargazing. The Columbia Hills State Park offers stunning views of the Columbia River Gorge and has several hiking trails for all skill levels.
Hidden Gems
If you’re looking for off-the-beaten-path experiences, head to the Klickitat Trail, a 31-mile trail that runs between Lyle and Warwick. This former railway line offers stunning views of the Klickitat River and is perfect for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Another hidden gem is the Stonehenge Memorial, a replica of the famous Stonehenge in England, located in Maryhill.
Food Scene
Klickitat County has a thriving food scene, with several farm-to-table restaurants and wineries. Some of the must-try dishes include the smoked salmon from the Gorge White House, the grass-fed beef from the Klickitat Canyon Winery, and the artisanal cheeses from the Cascadia Creamery.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Traveling to Klickitat County doesn’t have to break the bank. One of the best ways to save money is by camping at one of the several campgrounds in the county. You can also pack a picnic and enjoy a day at one of the many parks and beaches in the area.
Outdoor Adventures
Klickitat County is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Some of the popular activities include hiking, biking, fishing, kayaking, and windsurfing. The Klickitat River is a popular spot for fishing, while the Columbia River Gorge offers some of the best windsurfing in the world.
Historical Landmarks
Klickitat County has a rich history, and there are several historical landmarks that are worth a visit. The Fort Dalles Museum and Anderson Homestead offer a glimpse into the lives of the pioneers who settled in the area, while the Stonehenge Memorial and the Maryhill Museum of Art showcase the county’s cultural heritage.
Family-Friendly Activities
Klickitat County is a great destination for families, with several activities that kids will love. The Gorge Wildlife Park offers a chance to see exotic animals up close, while the Klickitat Trail is a great place for a family hike. The Maryhill Museum of Art also has a kid-friendly section with hands-on activities and games.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for something unique, check out the Gunkel Orchards, a family-owned fruit orchard that offers fruit picking and homemade jams. Another off-the-beaten-path experience is the Klickitat County Fair, held every August, which showcases the county’s agricultural heritage.
Natural Wonders
Klickitat County is home to several natural wonders, including the Klickitat River, the Columbia River Gorge, and the Mount Adams Wilderness. The Klickitat River is a popular spot for rafting and fishing, while the Columbia River Gorge offers stunning views and hiking trails. The Mount Adams Wilderness is a great place for backpacking and camping.
Vibrant Nightlife
While Klickitat County is known for its natural beauty, it also has a vibrant nightlife scene. The Dalles, a nearby city, has several bars and restaurants that offer live music and events. The Maryhill Winery also hosts several concerts and events throughout the year.
Local Markets
If you’re looking for fresh produce and artisanal products, check out one of the many local markets in Klickitat County. The Bingen Farmers Market and the Goldendale Farmers Market offer a wide variety of locally grown fruits and vegetables, while the White Salmon Farmers Market also has handmade crafts and baked goods.
Beaches and Mountains
Klickitat County has several beautiful beaches and mountains that are worth a visit. The Columbia River Gorge has several beaches and parks, including the Doug’s Beach State Park and the Mayer State Park. The Mount Adams Wilderness also offers stunning views and hiking trails.
Cultural Immersion
Klickitat County has a rich cultural heritage, and there are several ways to immerse yourself in the local culture. The Maryhill Museum of Art showcases art from around the world, while the Fort Dalles Museum offers a glimpse into the lives of the pioneers who settled in the area. The Klickitat County Fair also celebrates the county’s agricultural heritage.
Art and Music Scene
Klickitat County has a thriving art and music scene, with several local artists and musicians. The Maryhill Winery hosts several concerts and events throughout the year, while the White Salmon Arts Council promotes local artists and hosts art shows and events.
Walking Tours
If you’re looking for a leisurely way to explore the county, take a walking tour. The White Salmon Walking Tour showcases the town’s history and architecture, while the Bingen Walking Tour offers stunning views of the Columbia River Gorge.
Architectural Marvels
Klickitat County has several architectural marvels, including the Stonehenge Memorial, a replica of the famous Stonehenge in England, located in Maryhill. The Maryhill Museum of Art also has a beautiful Beaux-Arts mansion that was once the home of Sam Hill, a local entrepreneur.
Historical Sites
Klickitat County has a rich history, and there are several historical sites that are worth a visit. The Fort Dalles Museum and Anderson Homestead offer a glimpse into the lives of the pioneers who settled in the area, while the Stonehenge Memorial and the Maryhill Museum of Art showcase the county’s cultural heritage.
Biking Routes
Klickitat County has several scenic biking routes, including the Klickitat Trail, a 31-mile trail that runs between Lyle and Warwick. The Mount Adams Country Bicycle Tour is also a popular event that showcases the county’s natural beauty.
Wellness Retreats
If you’re looking for a relaxing getaway, check out one of the many wellness retreats in Klickitat County. The Ananda Center at Laurelwood offers yoga and meditation classes, while the Trout Lake Abbey offers silent retreats and spiritual workshops.
Adventure Sports
Klickitat County is a paradise for adventure sports enthusiasts. The Klickitat River is a popular spot for rafting and fishing, while the Columbia River Gorge offers some of the best windsurfing in the world. The Mount Adams Wilderness is also a great place for backpacking and camping. In conclusion, Klickitat County is a hidden gem in Washington State that has something to offer for every kind of traveler. From stunning natural beauty to rich history and outdoor adventures, this county is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories. So pack your bags and get ready to discover Klickitat County!