Yacolt, Washington

Welcome to Yacolt

Nestled in Clark County, Washington, just 30 miles northeast of Vancouver, Yacolt is a small town with a big history. Our name comes from the Klickitat word "Yalicolb," meaning "haunted place" or "place of spirits," reflecting the deep indigenous heritage of our land.

Our History

Yacolt's story begins with the Cowlitz and Klickitat tribes, who used this area as a gathering and trading place. The first non-indigenous settlers, Joseph and Charlotte Eaton, arrived in 1873, establishing a homestead on Rock Creek.

Despite economic ups and downs, including Weyerhaeuser's departure in 1929, Yacolt has shown remarkable resilience. The Civilian Conservation Corps helped rebuild the area in the 1930s, and today we're home to families who appreciate our rural charm and natural beauty.

Photo Gallery

Parks & Outdoor Activities

🚂 Chelatchie Prairie Railroad

One of Yacolt's crown jewels is the historic Chelatchie Prairie Railroad, operated entirely by volunteers. Ride our vintage steam locomotive through the beautiful countryside, with special holiday-themed trips including our famous Christmas Train that delights visitors from across the region.

🏞️ Nearby Natural Attractions

• Lucia Falls Park - Stunning waterfall with picnic areas and hiking trails
• Moulton Falls Regional Park - Popular spot for swimming, fishing, and scenic walks
• Yacolt Burn State Forest - Extensive trail system for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding
• Bells Mountain Trail - Challenging hike with panoramic views
• Sunset Falls - Beautiful cascade along the East Fork Lewis River
• Big Tree - Historic giant Douglas fir, survivor of the 1902 Yacolt Burn

🏛️ Town Parks & Facilities

• Yacolt Recreational Park - Main community park
• Yacolt Town Park & Skate Park - Popular with youth and families
• Town Cemetery - Historic cemetery dating back to early settlers
• North Clark Little League - Youth baseball programs

🎣 Popular Activities

• Hiking & Backpacking
• Mountain Biking & Off-Roading
• Fishing (Lewis River and area streams)
• Hunting (seasonal)
• Wildlife Photography
• Scenic Driving

Frequently Asked Questions

Living in Yacolt

As the smallest incorporated town in Clark County, Yacolt offers a unique small-town lifestyle while remaining part of the greater Portland-Vancouver metropolitan area. With a median household income of $90,625 and a homeownership rate of 90.5%, our community attracts families seeking rural living with urban access.

Our residents enjoy excellent schools through the Battle Ground Public Schools district, a strong sense of community, and the benefit of being part of a growing town (4.16% population growth in 2023). While the average commute is 51.8 minutes, many find the peaceful, forest-surrounded environment worth the travel to urban employment centers.

Community Services & Government

The Town of Yacolt provides essential municipal services from our Town Hall at 202 W. Cushman Street. Our local government is committed to serving residents with transparency and community involvement.

🎉 Community Events

Yacolt hosts several annual events that bring our community together, including Rendezvous Days, the Harvest Market with Chili Cook-off, Easter Egg Hunt, and family-friendly kickball tournaments. Our Yacolt Outdoor Market provides regular opportunities for local vendors and community gathering.

Helpful Resources & Links

🏛️ Government & Services

• Official Town of Yacolt Website
• Clark County Government
• Clark County Public Health
• Clark County Public Works

🏫 Schools

• Battle Ground Public Schools
• Fort Vancouver Regional Library

🚨 Emergency Services

• Emergency: Dial 911
• Clark County Sheriff's Office
• Emergency Management
• Fire District Information

💡 Utilities & Services

• Garbage & Recycling Information
• Clark Public Utilities
• Washington State DOT (Road Conditions)

🌲 Outdoor Recreation

• Gifford Pinchot National Forest
• WA Dept. of Fish & Wildlife (Licenses & Regulations)
• Discover Pass (Required for State Parks)
• Chelatchie Prairie Railroad