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Cities in Grays Harbor County, Washington

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Grays Harbor County, located in the southwestern part of Washington state, is known for its rich history, natural beauty, and thriving timber industry. The county is named after the Grays Harbor, which was named by Captain Robert Gray, an American explorer, in 1792. Grays Harbor County is home to a diverse landscape, from lush forests to rugged coastlines. The county has long been an important center for logging, fishing, and shipping, and its port, located in Aberdeen, remains one of the region’s key economic drivers. The county seat is Montesano, and the area is accessible via major highways such as U.S. Route 12 and U.S. Route 101, making it an important transportation hub in western Washington.

County Facts:

  • Population: Approximately 75,000
  • County Seat: Montesano
  • Number of Cities and Towns: 7
  • Area Code: 360

List of Cities and Towns in Grays Harbor County

1. Aberdeen (City)

City Facts:

  • Year Founded: 1884
  • Population: 17,000 (approx.)
  • Population Density: 1,800 people per square mile
  • Area Code: 360
  • Elevation: 20 feet

Overview: Aberdeen is the largest city in Grays Harbor County and serves as a commercial and cultural hub for the region. Located on the Chehalis River and close to the Pacific Ocean, it has historically been a center for the timber industry. The city’s economy has also expanded to include fishing and shipping. Aberdeen is well connected by road, including U.S. Route 12 and U.S. Route 101, which provide easy access to the Pacific Coast and the larger metropolitan areas to the north and south. The city also features a regional airport, allowing for connections to the broader region.

Things to Do: In Aberdeen, visitors can explore the city’s timber heritage at the Grays Harbor Historical Seaport, which offers tours and events. The city is also home to the Aberdeen Museum of History, which highlights the region’s logging history. Outdoor enthusiasts can visit nearby Olympic National Park or the Washington Coast for hiking, camping, and wildlife watching. The Westport Marina, a short drive from the city, offers excellent opportunities for boating, fishing, and whale watching. The city also hosts a variety of festivals, including the annual Timberland Regional Library’s Book Sale and the Grays Harbor Fair.

2. Hoquiam (City)

City Facts:

  • Year Founded: 1890
  • Population: 8,000 (approx.)
  • Population Density: 2,200 people per square mile
  • Area Code: 360
  • Elevation: 40 feet

Overview: Hoquiam is located just south of Aberdeen along the Hoquiam River and is closely tied to the timber and shipbuilding industries. The city’s location along the river made it an ideal port for logging and fishing activities. Hoquiam has a small-town charm with a rich history, and it is a gateway to the Olympic Peninsula. The city is serviced by U.S. Route 101, connecting it to neighboring communities and the broader Pacific Coast. Hoquiam also offers scenic views and is a short drive away from the Pacific Ocean, making it a prime location for outdoor activities.

Things to Do: Visitors to Hoquiam can enjoy the Hoquiam Riverwalk, a scenic walking trail along the river that showcases the area’s natural beauty. The city is home to the Polson Museum, which features exhibits on the region’s logging history and maritime heritage. Outdoor lovers can visit nearby Olympic National Park or the Grays Harbor National Wildlife Refuge. Hoquiam is also a short drive from Westport, known for its beaches and harbor activities, including fishing, crabbing, and whale watching. The city hosts the annual Hoquiam Logger’s Playday, which celebrates its logging roots with parades, competitions, and community events.

3. Montesano (City)

City Facts:

  • Year Founded: 1890
  • Population: 4,000 (approx.)
  • Population Density: 1,000 people per square mile
  • Area Code: 360
  • Elevation: 180 feet

Overview: Montesano, the county seat of Grays Harbor, is a small city nestled between the Chehalis River and the foothills of the Olympic Mountains. The town has a charming, historic downtown area and is known for its scenic beauty and outdoor recreation. Montesano has a rich history rooted in the timber industry, but it has also become a popular place for those seeking a quieter, more rural lifestyle. It is accessible via U.S. Route 12, which connects the city to other key parts of Washington state. The nearby Montesano Airport serves as a general aviation hub for the region.

Things to Do: Montesano offers plenty for outdoor enthusiasts, with hiking, fishing, and boating opportunities at nearby lakes and rivers. The town is home to the Satsop Nuclear Power Plant Site, a curious and unique tourist attraction. In the downtown area, visitors can explore historic buildings and enjoy local restaurants and shops. Montesano’s annual Timberland Regional Library Book Sale draws crowds, and the Grays Harbor Fair, held in neighboring Elma, is another popular regional event. The surrounding forests and state parks provide ample opportunities for camping, wildlife viewing, and nature walks.

4. Westport (City)

City Facts:

  • Year Founded: 1851
  • Population: 2,200 (approx.)
  • Population Density: 500 people per square mile
  • Area Code: 360
  • Elevation: 30 feet

Overview: Westport is a coastal city known for its scenic beaches, thriving fishing industry, and outdoor recreation opportunities. Situated on the Pacific Ocean, Westport has a long history as a port for the shipping and fishing industries. The town is located along U.S. Route 105, providing access to the rest of Grays Harbor County and surrounding areas. Its harbor is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, especially for those interested in fishing, crabbing, or boating. Westport has also become known as a destination for its beachcombing and whale-watching tours.

Things to Do: Westport is a paradise for beach lovers, with miles of pristine coastline to explore. Visitors can enjoy fishing trips, crabbing, or take a scenic boat tour to see the local wildlife, including gray whales. The Westport Maritime Museum offers fascinating exhibits on the region’s maritime history and the development of the town as a fishing hub. The Westport Light State Park, with its iconic lighthouse, provides fantastic views and hiking trails. Additionally, the city hosts the annual Westport Seafood Festival, which celebrates the area’s maritime heritage with music, food, and entertainment.

5. Elma (City)

City Facts:

  • Year Founded: 1859
  • Population: 3,000 (approx.)
  • Population Density: 1,200 people per square mile
  • Area Code: 360
  • Elevation: 200 feet

Overview: Elma is a small city located inland, surrounded by farmland and forested areas. It serves as an agricultural and commercial center for the region, with a strong emphasis on timber and agriculture industries. Elma sits along U.S. Route 12, providing easy access to Olympia, Aberdeen, and the Pacific Coast. The town’s historic downtown area offers a glimpse into the past with vintage buildings and local shops. The nearby Olympic National Forest provides ample opportunities for hiking, camping, and exploring the Pacific Northwest wilderness.

Things to Do: In Elma, visitors can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and fishing in nearby state parks and forests. The city hosts the annual Grays Harbor Fair, which is a popular regional event that celebrates the area’s rural culture with rides, live music, and agricultural competitions. The town also has several antique shops, parks, and local restaurants that provide a relaxing, small-town atmosphere. The nearby Chehalis River is ideal for kayaking and canoeing, while the surrounding forests offer opportunities for wildlife watching and nature walks.

List of Communities in Grays Harbor County

1. Cosmopolis

Community Facts:

  • Year Founded: 1891
  • Population: 1,800 (approx.)
  • Population Density: 1,800 people per square mile
  • Area Code: 360
  • Elevation: 30 feet

Cosmopolis is a small, residential community located near the Hoquiam River. Once a hub for the timber industry, it has now become a peaceful, rural area known for its proximity to Grays Harbor and local parks.

2. Oakville

Community Facts:

  • Year Founded: 1869
  • Population: 800 (approx.)
  • Population Density: 500 people per square mile
  • Area Code: 360
  • Elevation: 150 feet

Oakville is a quiet rural village situated in the southeastern part of Grays Harbor County. Known for its scenic beauty, it is a great spot for outdoor activities such as fishing, hiking, and exploring local farms.

 

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