Exploring the Scenic Salmon Creek Area in Washington State

Salmon Creek is a lovely suburb in southwest Washington that is tucked away in the woods and hills. People often ask me, “Where is Salmon Creek Washington located?” Since I live there and write about travel, I’ll tell you everything you need to know about this cute area!

Salmon Creek is in the western part of Clark County, WA. It is about 10 miles north of downtown Vancouver, WA. It’s on the edge of the Portland metropolitan area, which makes it an easy place to stay while you visit both cities. As of 2020, more than 21,000 people lived in the Salmon Creek census-designated place.

A Scenic Natural Setting

One of the things that first drew me to Salmon Creek was its abundance of parks trails, and wide open green spaces. Majestic evergreen forests rim the community with Mt. Hood and Mt. St. Helens visible on the horizon on clear days. The namesake Salmon Creek winds lazily through wetlands and parks, providing habitat for ducks, herons, native salmon runs, and other wildlife.

Salmon Creek Park and Klineline Pond are particular highlights. Klineline Pond is stocked with trout and offers a serene setting for fishing. The Salmon Creek Greenway Trail follows the creek for over 3 miles. It’s a delight for joggers cyclists and equestrians.

Just outside the community, more natural wonders await. The scenic Columbia River Gorge, Multnomah Falls, and volcanic Mt. St. Helens are all within easy driving distance for day trips.

Family-Friendly Atmosphere

Salmon Creek offers a relaxed pace of life with all the convenience of suburbia Tree-lined neighborhoods and cul-de-sacs frame single family homes. Shopping centers on NE Highway 99 are anchored by major stores like Target, Safeway and Home Depot Families flock to eateries like Chipotle, Panera Bread, and Mod Pizza.

We like to go to the Vancouver beach on the Columbia River on the weekends in the summer. There are playgrounds, a carousel, and walking paths along the river. Kids can have fun in Salmon Creek by swimming at the aquatic center or visiting the Hands On Children’s Museum.

The excellent Evergreen School District serves the area. Highly ranked schools, safe streets, and proximity to Portland’s airport and amenities add to the appeal for families.

Outdoor Recreation

For me, Salmon Creek’s parks and trails are the biggest draw. They provide a scenic escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. The easy access to the outdoors promotes an active lifestyle.

Some of my favorite walking and biking paths are at Washington State University Vancouver, just northeast of Salmon Creek. WSU Vancouver’s campus is actually a designated arboretum, with 150 acres of protected green space. Cougar Trails wind for miles past forested ravines and scenic viewpoints.

Farther west, I like to hike sections of the 40-mile Salmon Creek Trail to spot native wildlife. Bird watching is especially good near the wetlands. Geocaching is another fun activity my kids enjoy here.

Cultural Attractions

While Salmon Creek has more of a laidback vibe compared to Vancouver and Portland, some local cultural attractions are worth a visit. The Pearson Air Museum next to the Portland airport displays vintage aircraft and educates visitors about aviation history. Fort Vancouver, a former fur trading outpost, provides a look into the Pacific Northwest’s frontier past.

Music fans will want to catch a summer concert at the Salmon Creek’s 20,000-seat Sunlight Supply Amphitheater. Major acts like Dave Matthews Band and Phish draw huge crowds.

A Convenient Home Base

With its family-friendly atmosphere, recreational opportunities, and natural beauty, Salmon Creek offers an ideal home base. The central location provides easy access both to Portland attractions like the Rose Garden, OMSI museum, and trendy food carts, as well as the hiking trails of the Columbia River Gorge. Salmon Creek’s comfortable suburban ameneties, safe neighborhoods, excellent schools also make it very livable for full-time residents like myself.