Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
The Washougal River Greenway spans several miles along the Washougal River in Clark County, Washington, providing public access to the river's natural landscapes and riparian environments. The greenway consists of protected lands including parks, conservation easements, and trails that preserve native forests, wetlands, and riverine ecosystems. The Washougal River itself originates in the Cascade Mountains and flows westward before joining the Columbia River, carving a verdant valley that supports a range of native flora and fauna including salmon, steelhead, river otters, and numerous bird species. The Greenway is popular with hikers, anglers, bird watchers, and kayakers who enjoy easy access to pristine river views and outdoor activities close to the Vancouver and Portland metropolitan areas. History along the river includes indigenous use by the Chinook and Klickitat tribes and later pioneer settlements that depended on the river for fishing and transport. Visitors can enjoy trails that run through mature forests and meadows, multiple fishing spots especially for trout and salmon, and paddle launches for non-motorized boats. The area is also a key site for habitat restoration efforts and public education about watershed health. Its proximity to the city coupled with its natural setting makes the Washougal River Greenway a valued spot for outdoor recreation and environmental appreciation.
