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Cities in Clallam County, Washington

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Clallam County, located on the Olympic Peninsula in northwestern Washington, was established in 1854. It stretches from the rugged Pacific coastline to the lush forests of the Olympic Mountains, offering diverse landscapes that include coastal cliffs, rainforests, and pristine rivers. The county is bordered by the Strait of Juan de Fuca to the north, providing a natural boundary with Canada. Historically, the area was inhabited by the Klallam (S’Klallam) and other Coast Salish tribes. Today, Clallam County is known for its outdoor recreation, including hiking in Olympic National Park, fishing, and whale watching.

County Facts

  • Population: Approximately 80,000
  • County Seat: Port Angeles
  • Number of Cities and Towns: 4 (including incorporated cities and smaller towns)

List of Cities and Towns in Clallam County, Washington

1. Port Angeles

City Facts

  • Year Founded: 1862
  • Population: Approximately 20,000
  • Population Density: 1,600 people per square mile
  • Area Code: 360
  • Elevation: 32 feet

City Overview
Port Angeles, the largest city and county seat of Clallam County, is situated on the northern edge of the Olympic Peninsula along the Strait of Juan de Fuca. The city serves as a gateway to Olympic National Park and is known for its stunning waterfront views. Port Angeles has a deep-water harbor, making it a vital hub for shipping, tourism, and transportation. The city is accessible via U.S. Route 101 and features a ferry terminal offering service to Victoria, British Columbia. The downtown area is lively, with shops, restaurants, and art galleries that reflect the city’s vibrant community.

Things to Do
Port Angeles is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the Olympic National Park, starting with the popular Hurricane Ridge, which offers hiking trails and panoramic views. The downtown waterfront area features the Port Angeles Fine Arts Center and a public pier for strolling and fishing. For those interested in marine life, the Feiro Marine Life Center provides interactive exhibits. The city also hosts the annual Dungeness Crab & Seafood Festival, celebrating the region’s seafood heritage. Whale watching tours and kayaking opportunities in the Strait of Juan de Fuca are popular activities, especially during the migration season.

2. Sequim

City Facts

  • Year Founded: 1872
  • Population: Approximately 8,000
  • Population Density: 1,300 people per square mile
  • Area Code: 360
  • Elevation: 184 feet

City Overview
Sequim, known as the “Lavender Capital of North America,” is located east of Port Angeles in Clallam County. The city’s unique climate, influenced by the rain shadow of the Olympic Mountains, gives it some of the driest weather in western Washington. Sequim’s economy is driven by agriculture, tourism, and retirement communities. It is famous for its lavender farms, which draw thousands of visitors each year. The city is situated along U.S. Route 101, providing easy access to both the Olympic Peninsula and nearby state parks. Sequim is also close to the Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge, a popular spot for birdwatching.

Things to Do
Sequim offers a variety of attractions, including the annual Sequim Lavender Festival, where visitors can tour local farms and enjoy lavender-themed products. The Dungeness Spit, the longest natural sand spit in the United States, is ideal for hiking and birdwatching. For a taste of local history, the Museum and Arts Center in the Sequim-Dungeness Valley showcases exhibits on early settler life. Outdoor activities are abundant, with biking trails like the Olympic Discovery Trail and kayaking opportunities in the nearby bays. The city’s mild climate and beautiful landscapes make it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.

3. Forks

City Facts

  • Year Founded: 1945 (incorporated)
  • Population: Approximately 3,900
  • Population Density: 880 people per square mile
  • Area Code: 360
  • Elevation: 299 feet

City Overview
Forks is a small city located in the western part of Clallam County, surrounded by dense temperate rainforests. The city is named after its location near the forks of several rivers, including the Calawah, Bogachiel, and Sol Duc Rivers. Forks gained international attention as the setting for the “Twilight” book series, which brought a surge of tourism. The city’s economy is traditionally based on logging and forestry, but tourism has become increasingly important. Forks is a gateway to the western parts of Olympic National Park and the Pacific Coast, accessible via U.S. Route 101.

Things to Do
In Forks, visitors can explore the “Twilight” film locations and visit the Forks Timber Museum, which highlights the area’s logging history. Outdoor activities include hiking in the Hoh Rain Forest, known for its lush greenery and giant trees. The nearby Sol Duc Hot Springs offers natural hot pools for relaxation. Beach lovers can take a short drive to Rialto Beach or La Push, where they can witness stunning sea stacks and tide pools. Fishing enthusiasts will find excellent salmon and steelhead fishing in the nearby rivers. The city also hosts the annual RainFest, celebrating the arts and local culture.

4. Neah Bay

City Facts

  • Year Founded: Early 1800s
  • Population: Approximately 900
  • Population Density: Sparse
  • Area Code: 360
  • Elevation: 20 feet

City Overview
Neah Bay is a small fishing village located at the northwestern tip of the Olympic Peninsula, within the Makah Indian Reservation. The community has a rich cultural history, being home to the Makah Tribe for thousands of years. Neah Bay’s location offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and access to some of the most remote and pristine areas of Washington’s coastline. The village is accessible via State Route 112, also known as the Strait of Juan de Fuca Scenic Byway. Neah Bay serves as a gateway to Cape Flattery, the westernmost point in the contiguous United States.

Things to Do
Visitors to Neah Bay can explore the Makah Museum, which features artifacts from the Ozette archaeological site, offering insights into the tribe’s ancient way of life. The Cape Flattery Trail provides breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and the rugged coastline. Fishing, kayaking, and whale watching are popular activities, especially during the gray whale migration. The area’s natural beauty attracts birdwatchers and photographers. In the summer, the Makah Days celebration showcases traditional dances, canoe races, and a salmon bake. The village’s remote setting and rich cultural heritage make it a unique destination on the Olympic Peninsula.

List of Communities in Clallam County, Washington

1. Joyce

Community Facts

  • Year Founded: Early 1900s
  • Population: Approximately 250
  • Population Density: Sparse
  • Area Code: 360
  • Elevation: 200 feet

Community Overview
Joyce is a small, unincorporated community located west of Port Angeles. Known for its proximity to the Strait of Juan de Fuca and scenic landscapes, Joyce is a popular stop for travelers exploring the Olympic Peninsula. The community is home to the Joyce General Store, one of the oldest operating stores in Washington.

2. Clallam Bay

Community Facts

  • Year Founded: Late 1800s
  • Population: Approximately 350
  • Population Density: Sparse
  • Area Code: 360
  • Elevation: 35 feet

Community Overview
Clallam Bay is a coastal community situated at the mouth of the Clallam River. It offers beautiful views of the bay and is a gateway to outdoor adventures like hiking, beachcombing, and fishing. The community’s relaxed atmosphere and natural beauty make it a peaceful retreat for visitors.

 

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