The 9 Friendliest Little Towns In The Pacific Northwest
The Pacific Northwest lures rugged outdoorsmen from near and far to connect with nature. From the sapphire Pacific to the enchanting Sawtooths in Idaho, this compact corner in the US remains largely untainted by development, with eye-catching towns hidden amidst surreal wilderness. Discovering these nine towns across three different states promises western-themed downtowns, island vibes, and European charm. Beyond the urban sprawl, these beach, mountain, and riverfront towns demonstrate the sheer diversity of the landscape in the Pacific Northwest.
Cascade Locks, Oregon
Renowned for photogenic adventures and warm hospitality, Cascade Locks lines the banks of the Columbia River, near trails and waterfalls of the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. A short drive from the popular Punchbowl Falls, the historic town lures scenery chasers to the famed West Coast, a picturesque locale made even more stunning by the iconic Bridge of the Gods. The 35-foot-wide toll bridge accommodates vehicles, bikes, and pedestrians 1,858 feet across the Columbia.
In addition to galleries, cafes, a drive-in, and a brewery, Cascade Motel offers down-to-earth comfort downtown in 1940s digs, views of the Cascades, and proximity to the marine park for boating, fishing, picnics, and events. The Columbia River Gorge offers a wealth of trails. Dry Creek Falls, Herman Creek, and Punchbowl Falls are popular hikes with rewarding destinations, and the unique Twister Falls is well worth the trip.
Eastsound, Washington
Eastsound, Orcas Island’s downtown at the head of Fishing Bay, embraces visitors with all the charms of coastal living, like free ferry access from San Juan Island's Friday Harbor. The historic, walkable village, infused with a bohemian vibe and sea salt air, is fun and easy to explore down the expansive two-block district to the waterfront. Stretch your legs along the Crescent Beach or through the nearby nature preserves on the bay with a historic lime kiln and serene beach views.
The island's horseshoe shape creates a vast coastline with bays and coves. Dubbed the "Emerald Isle," the mountainous, second-most populated, and largest by area of the San Juans boasts historic buildings from the 1880s. In addition to the popular Orcas Center for performing arts and Island Hoppin' Brewery, a beer garden with indoor and outdoor seating, the accommodations that line the coast are ideal vantage points for whale watching.
Forks, Washington
Once a secret gem in the heart of the Olympic Peninsula, this misty town with a Hollywood claim to fame as the setting for the Twilight movies offers fresh-faced nature and warm hospitality. One of the state's rainiest locales, Forks welcomes you with a slew of inns and motels just off Hwy 101. You can prowl local museums, like the Forever Twilight in Forks Collection, see Bella's house, and take a commemorative selfie by the gothic gazebo at Tillicum Park.
Braced by the Calawah and the Bogachiel Rivers to the north, west, and south, the natural borders lend a removed-from-civilization feel amid verdant forests to make every sunny day count along the river walks, through the trail-spliced Bogachiel State Park, and the elk-filled meadows. In addition to mountain bike trails and some of the state's best fishing, the dog-friendly Elk Creek Conservation Area offers a serene space under the towering trees for hiking and picnics.
McCall, Idaho
Perched on the southern shore of bright blue Payette Lake, McCall offers an ideal downtown vantage of the ponderosa forests and the blue-tinted mountains on the horizon. Locals head out hiking and biking in the ample summer sunshine and enjoy skiing the slopes in winter. Indeed, adventure beckons no matter the season, with Ponderosa State Park at your doorstep, the lake's eastern shore boasting year-round trails, as well as boat launches and campsites.
Just two hours north of Boise, the lively resort town seamlessly transitions from beach and water sports to leaf peeping along the 42-mile Warren Wagon Road. Then, a winter wonderland ensues, with a makeover by its loving small businesses and residents that includes caroling, festivities, and handcrafted snow sculptures. Treat yourself to the Burgdorf Hot Springs for a relaxing soak or explore the McCall Ale Trail to melt your stress and reinvigorate your senses.
Mt. Angel, Oregon
Mt. Angel boasts a strong cultural identity, rooted in Bavarian and Swiss heritage. Bavarian charm extends beyond historic architecture and the glockenspiel downtown, inviting you to get in touch with the natural beauty of the Willamette Valley. Mount Angel Abbey is a peaceful place with a beautiful library, a free museum, a guest house, and a lovely bookstore and coffee shop. The Abbey is also home to Benedictine Brewery, where the monks brew beer in the monastic tradition of the Middle Ages.
Meanwhile, the town's annual Oktoberfest, a family-friendly event, lures tens of thousands from all over, with live music, traditional food, and, of course, more beer. In addition to the town's cultural appeal, don't miss checking out the Historic Gallon House Covered Bridge, the state's oldest from 1916, which makes the short drive across Abiqua Creek feel like a trip back in time.
Port Orford, Oregon
One of the state's last authentic fishing villages, Port Orford feels more luxurious than rustic, with world-class fishing, pristine beaches, and two historic mansion-like homes, one in town and one nearby, dating to the end of the 19th century. Unmarked trails traverse the Port Orford Heads State Park on a headland over the rocky coastline, with sweeping views of massive seastacks and tiny gems below at Agate Beach, a local respite for humans and their four-legged friends.
You can view the Battle Rock along Route 101 or adventure through Battle Rock Wayside Park, perhaps scrambling up the rocky side to relax in solitude atop. Bookended by coastal state parks, pick your adventure for the day, including windsurfing and scuba diving south in sapphire waters or kayaking and fishing in the local lake. Just north, Cape Blanco State Park lures with foaming oceanfront views of the landmark whitewashed 1870 lighthouse.
Port Townsend, Washington
Port Townsend envelops you with a lively arts and music scene across the Puget Sound from Seattle. Just a seafaring village in 1851, it was set to link the PNW to the rest of the nation with the expected arrival of the Union Pacific Railroad. Cruising into the sound for an exquisite view, it is hard to fathom that it was once touch-and-go for this enigmatic Victorian seaport when the UPR project failed due to finances right in the midst of the housing boom.
Saved by a paper mill magnate in 1927, the nearly ghosted city embraced revival. Today, elaborate architecture decorates the streets with unique boutiques, antique shops, and quaint cafés in historic brick buildings. Fort Worden Historical State Park paints a historic picture with structures on the former military base along the waterfront, in addition to camping and cabins for rent. For an even deeper dive, tour the 1879 Point Wilson Lighthouse when you visit the beaches in the summer.
Salmon, Idaho
This adorable town boasts a deep heritage in a serene corner near the state border on the edge of the wilderness. Perched on the Salmon River, the Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness was named for the treacherous downstream rapids that carried early wooden cargo boats in only one direction. Prior to the Lewis and Clark expedition, the land was sacred to local Indigenous peoples. Drop by the intimate Lemhi County Historical Museum to browse their collection of artifacts and gift shop.
Home to outdoor enthusiasts, friendly locals will point you to the best spots for hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The riverfront Island Park is an ideal place to let the kids and pets play on a sunny afternoon amidst peaceful scenery. Meanwhile, Homer Youngs Peak is a fine effort full of reward with jaw-dropping vistas from 10,621 feet. In addition to art galleries, glamping, and delightful cafes, lodgings abound in Salmon, like the charming Sacajawea Inn, an upscale vintage hotel that also offers RV camping and glamping.
Stanley, Idaho
Two hours away along the same prolific Salmon River, Stanley lures with whitewater, world-class fishing, and western appeal. Marked by a gamut of river companies, outfitters, and backcountry guides, one of the state's only remaining frontier towns sweeps you away in the freshest air and eye-popping sunsets, with a no-frills authentic vibe. No adventure is off the table, including horseback riding, camping, and scenic drives along one of the three National Forest Scenic Byways that converge in Stanley.
Located within the 756,000-acre Sawtooth National Recreation Area, the pristine riverbanks and untouched wilderness of the Sawtooths lend a secluded amphitheater effect. The hypnotizing peaks, at least 50 of which are over 10,000 feet in elevation, invite exploration. Mount Reagan and the 10,635-foot Williams Peak feature hiking, scrambling, and climbing routes, while Redfish Lake is minutes away for soaking in the alpine beauty from a canoe, kayak, or paddleboard.
These amicable towns inspire and delight. From Idaho's lakeside and two riverfront towns to the island vibes and Olympic Peninsula's two very different Washington towns, the friendly locals live on the edge of natural wonder. Each town reveals it's own unique culture and historic charm downtown, with thriving local arts, entertainment, and an infectious outdoor spirit. The scenic beauty and relaxed pace will sweep you away with pristine beaches, hot springs, and waterfalls from the moment you arrive.
