Communities of Skamania County Stevenson On the north bank of the Columbia River lies the historic community of Stevenson, Washington. As Skamania County’s seat of government and home to fine destination resorts, Stevenson strives to keep visitors busy with activities and events throughout the year. With an award winning brew pub, art galleries, fine restaurants, distinctive clothing and jewelry stores, along with stylish coffee bars, one can only delight in discovering this welcome respite from the big city. The town itself is nestled between the mountains and rugged basalt cliffs of the Gorge to the north and the Columbia River to the south. Views of the Gorge in and around Stevenson are breathtaking and not to be missed. www.cityofstevenson.com
Swift Communities Heading west along the Swift Reservoir on Forest Road 90 in Skamania County, travelers will find several small residential communities. Located on the southeast side of Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument, this area is considered the last outpost on your way to Mount St. Helens. This 13-mile-long reservoir has wonderful waterskiing coves, great fishing, and lots of room for fun and exploration. Surrounded by the beauty of Mount St. Helens and National Forest land, the area attracts hikers, bikers, boaters, fishermen (and women) and sun seekers of all ages. A public boat launch and campground are located at the reservoir. Wintertime as well offers many possibilities, from snowmobiling to cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
North Bonneville Recreation runs year-round at North Bonneville. Hunting, fishing and hiking are literally at your doorstep. The Heritage Trail system displays historical and scenic opportunities. Find first class lodging and relaxation in the luxury of the Bonneville Hot Springs Resort and Spa. On the east side of town, the mighty Bonneville Dam is a must-see attraction. The Bradford Island Visitors
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Center is a five-level-facility, offering amazing underwater views of migrating fish, a large theater, and informative displays that explain the history and workings of a hydropower plant. You can also watch fish swim upstream from four fish ladders, one on the Washington shore and three on the original project. www.northbonneville.net
Mill A, Willard and Cook Mill A and the neighboring communities of Willard and Cook, Washington are located on the eastern side of Skamania County. Willard was home to Broughton Lumber
2010 SKAMANIA COUNTY VISITORS’ GUIDE
www.skamania.org
Flume, a nine-mile-long, 1000-foot-drop, wooden lumber slide. For decades the Broughton Lumber Company timbered in the mountains, sending their logs to the riverside mill. The mill has been closed for several years, and the old flume is slowly rotting away but can still be seen from Highway 14. The 1967 TV episode of Lassie made the flume famous as the popular collie floated down the chute to the Broughton Lumber mill. The small community of Cook is home to the Little White Salmon National Fish Hatchery.