Naselle Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to visit, and local culture of Naselle, Washington with our comprehensive travel guide. Get insider tips on hiking, biking, food, lodging, and more.


Introduction to Naselle

Naselle is a charming rural community in Southwest Washington, just a two-hour drive from Portland and five hours from Seattle. Nestled in the scenic Naselle River Valley, Naselle is a hidden gem that offers visitors a taste of authentic Pacific Northwest culture and natural beauty.

List of Places to Visit in Naselle

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Naselle Heritage Park - A fascinating museum that celebrates the history and culture of the Naselle region, with exhibits on logging, fishing, and Native American heritage.
  • Pioneer Church - A historic church that showcases the rich religious history of the area, with a beautiful stained glass window and an old-fashioned bell tower.

Natural Attractions of Naselle: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Cape Disappointment State Park - An expansive state park that encompasses 1,800 acres of rugged coastline, forested hills, and historic landmarks.
  • Willapa National Wildlife Refuge - A pristine natural area that offers diverse habitats and an opportunity to observe a wide variety of birds, mammals, and other wildlife.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Naselle

Naselle boasts a variety of hiking and biking trails that promise stunning scenery and outdoor adventure. Here are a few of the most popular routes:

  • Willapa Hills Trail - A 56-mile rail-to-trail that winds through the picturesque Willapa Hills and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Knappton Cove Heritage Center Trail - A 1.3-mile interpretive trail that explores the history of Knappton Cove and the Lewis and Clark Expedition.

Best Things to Do in Naselle: Activities and Tours

  • Fishing - Naselle is a world-class fishing destination, with salmon, steelhead, and trout running in the Naselle River and nearby tributaries.
  • Bird Watching - With its diverse ecosystems and abundant wildlife, Naselle is a prime spot for bird watchers, with species such as bald eagles, sandhill cranes, and great blue herons frequently sighted.

Week-Long Itinerary for Naselle

Day Activity
1 Explore the Naselle Heritage Park
2-3 Hike the Willapa Hills Trail
4 Fish for salmon on the Naselle River
5 Take a bird-watching tour at Willapa Refuge
6-7 Relax and unwind at a local spa or hot spring

Food and Drink Scene of Naselle

Must-Try Dishes

  • Smoked Salmon - A Pacific Northwest classic, with local smokehouses offering some of the best in the area.
  • Oysters - Naselle is located near the heart of the Willapa Bay oyster beds, where visitors can taste these delicious bivalves in all their forms, from raw to fried to grilled.

Local Beverages

  • Washington Wine - Naselle is a short drive from Washington wine country, where visitors can sample some of the region’s best reds, whites, and sparkling wines.
  • Craft Beer - The Pacific Northwest is known for its thriving craft beer scene, and Naselle is no exception, with local breweries offering unique flavors and brew styles.

Where to Stay in Naselle: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • The Historic Hotel - A charming boutique hotel that has been lovingly restored to its 1920s decor, offering elegant guest rooms and an on-site restaurant.
  • Willapa Hills Farmstay - A unique lodging experience that invites guests to stay on a working farm in the heart of the Willapa Hills, with comfortable accommodations and organic farm-to-table meals.

What to Buy in Naselle: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Salmon Candy - A sweet-and-savory treat made from locally caught salmon that is coated in brown sugar and smoked to perfection.
  • Handcrafted Pottery - The Naselle area is home to a number of talented potters, who create stunning ceramics inspired by the natural beauty of the region.

Local Culture and Customs of Naselle

Naselle has a strong sense of community and a deep appreciation for nature and the outdoors. Visitors are encouraged to embrace the local culture by exploring the region’s museums, attending community events, and engaging with the friendly locals.

Best Time to Visit Naselle

The best time to visit Naselle is in the late spring and early fall, when the weather is mild and the crowds are fewer. However, each season has its own unique charms, from the stunning foliage of autumn to the blooming wildflowers of spring.

Do’s and Don’ts of Naselle

Do:

  • Respect the natural beauty of the area by leaving no trace and practicing responsible outdoor recreation.
  • Support the local economy by shopping at small businesses and eating at locally owned restaurants.

Don’t:

  • Trespass on private property or engage in illegal activities such as poaching or dumping.
  • Disrespect local customs or traditions by littering or being unnecessarily loud or disruptive.

Safety and Health

Safety in Naselle

Naselle is a safe community, with low rates of crime and excellent emergency services. However, visitors should still exercise caution when hiking, fishing, or participating in other outdoor activities.

Health in Naselle

Naselle has a small medical clinic that can provide basic medical care to visitors in case of illness or injury. Visitors should be prepared for the rural climate by bringing appropriate clothing and gear.

Getting to Naselle: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Naselle

The nearest airports to Naselle are Portland International Airport (PDX) and Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), both of which are serviced by major airlines.

Bus Stations Near Naselle

Greyhound buses stop in nearby towns such as Longview and Astoria, but there are no direct bus routes to Naselle.

Other Options

Visitors can also reach Naselle by car, bike, or motorhome, with scenic routes such as the Pacific Coast Highway and the Oregon Coast Trail offering stunning views along the way.

How to Get Around in Naselle

The best way to get around in Naselle is by car or bike, as public transportation is limited. Visitors can also explore the area via hiking trails and guided tours.

Where to Go Next from Naselle: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Astoria, Oregon - A charming coastal town with a rich history and a thriving arts and culture scene, located just across the Columbia River from Naselle.
  • Mount Rainier National Park - A breathtaking park known for its towering peaks, glaciers, and alpine meadows, located just a few hours’ drive east of Naselle.

Conclusion

Naselle is an idyllic destination for anyone seeking a taste of Pacific Northwest charm and natural beauty. Whether you come to explore the outdoors, sample local cuisine, or immerse yourself in local culture, Naselle is sure to leave a lasting impression. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your visit now!