Elma
,Elma is a small town located in Grays Harbor County in the state of Washington, United States. It is known for its picturesque rural setting surrounded by forests and waterways, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The town has a strong sense of community with locally owned businesses, schools, and parks that contribute to its charm.
Elma's residents enjoy a peaceful and laid-back lifestyle while still having easy access to nearby cities like Olympia and Seattle for additional amenities and activities.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $200
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Outdoor Adventure in Elma
morning
:Start your day with a refreshing hike at the nearby Schmitz Park, where you can enjoy beautiful trails and lush greenery. Bring a packed breakfast to savor amidst nature.
afternoon
:Visit the Elma Grange for local farmer markets and pick up fresh produce. Take some time to relax at a local café and enjoy a light lunch.
evening
:Wrap up your day with dinner at a cozy restaurant downtown. Consider catching a live music performance if available.
Water Fun in Elma
morning
:Rent a kayak or canoe at the local lake and paddle your way through serene waters. Enjoy the scenic views as you explore the area.
afternoon
:Enjoy a picnic by the lake or try fishing if you prefer a nice, relaxing afternoon. Take a leisurely stroll along the shore.
evening
:Head to a lakeside restaurant for fresh seafood. Watch the sunset for a perfect ending to your water-themed day.
Highlights
Good
- Scenic natural environment with access to outdoor activities such as hiking and fishing.
- Small-town atmosphere with a tight-knit community.
- Lower cost of living compared to urban areas.
Bad
- Limited access to healthcare and other essential services.
- Fewer job opportunities and economic activities.
- Potential for isolation due to the rural setting and distance from larger cities.
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Hiking at Olympic National Park
Explore the stunning trails of Olympic National Park, just a short drive from Elma, offering diverse landscapes from lush rainforests to rugged coastlines.
Biking on the Chehalis Western Rail Trail
Enjoy a scenic ride on this multi-use trail that stretches for miles, perfect for biking, walking, and enjoying nature.
Fishing at Mayfield Lake
Spend a day fishing at Mayfield Lake, known for its diverse fish species and beautiful surrounding scenery, ideal for both novice and experienced anglers.
Camping at Copalis Beach
Set up camp at Copalis Beach for a relaxing getaway, where you can enjoy beachcombing, bonfires, and stunning ocean sunsets.
Kayaking on the Wishkah River
Kayak on the serene waters of the Wishkah River, offering opportunities for wildlife viewing and enjoying the peaceful environment.
Birdwatching in the Grays Harbor National Wildlife Refuge
Visit the Grays Harbor National Wildlife Refuge for excellent birdwatching opportunities, especially during migration seasons.
Exploring the Satsop Business Park
Discover outdoor art installations and walking paths at the Satsop Business Park, offering unique views and local culture.
Adventures
Uncover the best of Elma with these unforgettable adventures.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
Elma Community Park
This park features beautiful landscapes, walking trails, and open spaces, perfect for capturing nature shots and enjoying panoramic views.
Tahuya State Forest
Located nearby, this forest offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, making it a great spot for photos of lush greenery and wildlife.
Mason Lake
A picturesque lake that provides a scenic backdrop for photography, especially at sunrise or sunset when the colors reflect beautifully on the water.
Elma High School Football Field
This location offers an elevated perspective of the town and surrounding area, especially during events when the field is bustling with activity.
Grays Harbor County Fairgrounds
During the fair, this site is vibrant and full of life, ideal for capturing colorful shots of attractions, animals, and fairgoers.
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Barbecue Ribs
Tender, smoky, and slathered in a rich sauce, the barbecue ribs in Elma are a must-try. Head to Smoky Joe's BBQ Pit for a lip-smacking experience.
Must-Try!
Apple Pie
Indulge in a classic American dessert with a slice of warm apple pie. The Apple Orchard Cafe is renowned for its delectable homemade apple pies.
Fish Fry
Feast on crispy, golden fried fish accompanied by seasoned fries and coleslaw. The Lakeside Diner is a local favorite for this dish.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Elma better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Elma Farmers Market
Explore the Elma Farmers Market for fresh produce, artisanal goods, and a variety of local street food vendors offering everything from gourmet hot dogs to homemade ice cream.
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greetings
In Elma, it's common to greet people with a friendly handshake or a simple wave. Maintaining eye contact while greeting shows respect and attentiveness.
Personal Space
Respect personal space is essential. People in Elma typically value their personal space, so standing about an arm's length away during conversation is polite.
Punctuality
Being on time for events and appointments is considered respectful in Elma. Arriving a few minutes early is often appreciated and shows that you value the other person's time.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Elma with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
In Elma, as in much of the United States, tipping is a common practice, particularly in the service industry. It is customary to tip servers in restaurants around 15-20% of the total bill before tax. Other service providers, such as hairdressers, taxi drivers, and hotel staff, also expect tips, which typically range from 10-20% depending on the service provided. Tipping is often viewed as a way to show appreciation for good service.
Payment
In Elma, the most common forms of payment include cash, credit cards, and debit cards. Many establishments also accept mobile payment options such as Apple Pay and Google Pay. The prevalence of credit and debit card usage has increased over the years, and it is common for consumers to use cards for everyday purchases. Additionally, some local businesses may also accept checks, though this is becoming less common.
Best Activities
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Elma.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring
Spring in Elma is generally mild, with temperatures ranging from the mid-40s to mid-60s Fahrenheit. Expect blooming flowers, lush greenery, and occasional rain. This is a great time for outdoor activities and enjoying nature.
Summer
Summer brings warmer weather, with temperatures typically in the 70s to low 80s. This is the peak tourist season, making it a great time for outdoor festivals, hiking, and enjoying local parks. Be prepared for occasional hot spells and thunderstorms.
Fall
Fall showcases beautiful foliage with temperatures ranging from the 50s to 70s. Visitors can enjoy stunning autumn colors, harvest festivals, and mild weather, making it perfect for scenic drives and outdoor activities.
Winter
Winter is cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Expect snow and icy conditions, ideal for winter sports enthusiasts. The holiday season brings festive decorations and local events, offering a cozy charm.
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Flint Creek Trail
A scenic trail that follows Flint Creek, offering beautiful views and varying terrain suitable for hikers of all skill levels.
Mason Lake Trail
This trail leads to Mason Lake, providing hikers with a peaceful setting and opportunities for wildlife viewing along the way.
Olympic National Park
Just a drive away, this national park features diverse ecosystems, dozens of hiking trails from easy to challenging, and stunning vistas.
Rattlesnake Ledge
A popular hiking destination with a moderately difficult trail that rewards hikers with panoramic views of Rattlesnake Lake and surrounding mountains.
Schneider's Creek Trail
A well-maintained trail that winds through lush forests and features several creek crossings, perfect for a tranquil hiking experience.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Elma through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach Elma by plane.
Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA)
The largest airport in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States, located approximately 70 miles north of Elma.
Portland International Airport (PDX)
The primary airport serving the Portland metropolitan area, located about 150 miles south of Elma.
Spokane International Airport (GEG)
The main airport serving Spokane, Washington, approximately 260 miles east of Elma.
Tacoma Narrows Airport (TIW)
A smaller regional airport located near Tacoma, about 60 miles north of Elma.
Boeing Field / King County International Airport (BFI)
A public airport located in Seattle, approximately 70 miles north of Elma.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Caucasian
The largest demographic group in Elma, consisting primarily of individuals of European descent.
Hispanic or Latino
A significant demographic group that includes individuals of Mexican, Puerto Rican, and other Latin American backgrounds.
African American
A community of individuals with African ancestry, contributing to the cultural diversity of Elma.
Asian
Includes various nationalities such as Chinese, Indian, and Filipino, representing a smaller portion of the population.
Native American
Includes individuals from local tribes and those of Native American heritage.
Other Races
This group encompasses individuals from mixed backgrounds and other ethnicities not specified above.
The Soul of Elma
Discover the essence of Elma through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football
A popular sport played in high schools and local leagues, with strong community support.
Baseball
A traditional American pastime with local teams and community events during the summer months.
Basketball
Widely played at schools and community centers, with organized leagues and tournaments for various age groups.
Soccer
Gaining popularity among youth, with local clubs and recreational leagues for children and adults.
Track and Field
An essential part of school athletics, with events held during the spring season.
Wrestling
A competitive sport at the high school level, with wrestling meets and championships.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian
Vegetarian options are widely available in Elma, with many restaurants offering creative meat-free dishes packed with flavor and wholesome ingredients.
Vegan
Vegan-friendly eateries can be found throughout Elma, with plant-based cafes and restaurants serving up a delectable array of animal-free fare.
Gluten-Free
Those with gluten restrictions can dine with ease in Elma, as numerous establishments feature gluten-free menu items and are attentive to special dietary needs.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Elma with these cultural adventures.
