Klickitat County, Washington

Maryhill stonehenge WWI monument

Switching ReloadxRP - Flickr - drewj1946

US 97

WA-14

WA-141

Klickitat County is a county located in the U.S. state of Washington. As of the 2020 United States Census, the population was 22,425. The county seat and largest city is Goldendale. Klickitat County was established on December 20, 1859, from a part of Skamania County and was named after the Klickitat tribe of the Yakama Native Americans. The county is known for its diverse geography, ranging from dense forests in the west, part of the Cascade Range, to arid desert landscapes in the east.

Geography

Klickitat County covers an area of 1,904 square miles, with 1,871 square miles being land and 33 square miles being water. It is bordered by Yakima County to the north, Benton County to the northeast, Morrow County, and Gilliam County in Oregon to the south, with the Columbia River forming the natural boundary. The county's varied geography includes significant landmarks such as Mount Adams, one of the largest volcanoes in the state, and part of the Gifford Pinchot National Forest.

Demographics

As of the 2020 Census, Klickitat County had a population of 22,425. The demographic makeup was diverse, with a significant portion of the population identifying as White, followed by smaller percentages of Native American, African Americans, Asian Americans, and other racial groups. The county has a mix of urban and rural populations, with agriculture, forestry, and tourism being significant contributors to the local economy.

Economy

The economy of Klickitat County is primarily based on agriculture, forestry, and tourism. The county's agricultural products include apples, cherries, and wheat, while its forests are a source of timber. Tourism is also a growing sector, with visitors attracted to the county's natural beauty, outdoor recreational opportunities, and cultural heritage sites, including the Maryhill Museum of Art and the replica of Stonehenge.

Government

Klickitat County is governed by a board of county commissioners, a common form of county government in the United States. The commissioners are elected by the citizens of the county and are responsible for legislative and executive functions, such as setting budgets, enacting ordinances, and overseeing county operations.

Education

The county is served by several school districts, including the Goldendale School District, which provides education from kindergarten through 12th grade. Higher education opportunities are available through community colleges in the region, offering a range of degree and certificate programs.

Transportation

Transportation in Klickitat County includes a network of state highways, with State Route 14 being a major east-west route along the Columbia River. The county also has several airports, including the Goldendale Municipal Airport, providing services for general aviation. Public transportation options are limited, with services focused on connecting residents to regional centers.

Recreation

Klickitat County offers a wide range of recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, camping, and skiing. The county's natural landscapes, such as the Columbia River Gorge and the forests of the Cascade Range, provide a backdrop for outdoor adventures. Cultural attractions, such as the Maryhill Museum of Art and the Stonehenge replica, add to the county's appeal for visitors and residents alike.