Things To Do
in Enumclaw
Enumclaw is a picturesque city nestled at the foothills of the Cascade Range in Washington state. It is known for its stunning views of Mount Rainier and lush landscapes. Outdoor enthusiasts flock to Enumclaw for its hiking trails, camping opportunities, and nearby skiing in the winter.
The city also boasts a charming downtown area with local shops and restaurants for visitors to explore.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $200
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with breakfast at a local café. Then, take a stroll in downtown Enumclaw to explore its charming shops.
Visit the Enumclaw Plateau for a scenic hike and enjoy the beautiful views. Pack a picnic to enjoy amidst nature.
Dine at one of Enumclaw’s family-owned restaurants. Try the local specialty dishes and unwind in the cozy atmosphere.
Head to Crystal Mountain for an early morning hike. Experience breathtaking views of Mount Rainier and the surrounding wilderness.
Enjoy lunch at the mountain resort, then take a scenic chairlift ride. Capture stunning photos and enjoy the fresh mountain air.
Return to Enumclaw and relax at a local brewery. Sample some craft beers and indulge in tasty pub fare.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Scenic views and access to outdoor activities, including hiking and camping in nearby mountains and forests.
- A small-town atmosphere with a tight-knit community feel.
- Low crime rates compared to larger urban areas, contributing to a sense of safety.
- Local festivals and events that foster community engagement and cultural activities.
- Proximity to major cities like Seattle, providing access to urban amenities without living in a large metropolis.
- Limited job opportunities compared to larger cities, which may lead to longer commutes for work.
- Fewer entertainment options and cultural amenities such as theaters, concerts, and dining experiences.
- Higher dependence on cars for transportation due to limited public transit options.
- Potential for higher housing costs relative to income levels, especially as more people move to the area.
- Weather can be rainy and cloudy for much of the year, which may not appeal to everyone.
Best Activities in Enumclaw
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the stunning scenery, hiking trails, and wildlife at Mount Rainier National Park, just a short drive from Enumclaw.
Enjoy skiing and snowboarding in the winter, or hiking and mountain biking in the summer at Crystal Mountain Resort.
Hike or mountain bike through the scenic Enumclaw Plateau, featuring beautiful views and trails for all skill levels.
Spend a night under the stars with camping options at Camp Ohane, offering access to trails and natural beauty.
Experience outdoor adventures such as kayaking, rafting, and hiking in the picturesque Green River Gorge.
Visit Flaming Geyser State Park for picnicking, hiking, and enjoying the unique natural gas geysers.
Enjoy outdoor performances in a beautiful forest setting at the Kitsap Forest Theater, featuring local artists.
Places to Visit in Enumclaw
Visit one of these nice places.
Offering breathtaking panoramic views of Mount Rainier, the park is ideal for capturing stunning landscapes, wildflower meadows, and diverse wildlife.
A scenic mountain pass with stunning vistas of Mount Rainier and surrounding peaks, perfect for photography, especially during the fall.
This elevated area provides sweeping views of the Cascades and the neighboring valleys, ideal for sunset photography.
Located near the White River, this spot offers beautiful forest scenery and river views, which are great for nature photography.
A short hike leads to a viewpoint overlooking the town of Enumclaw and beyond, with a mesmerizing view of the surrounding mountains.
A tranquil park that features a lake, wooded areas, and walking trails, providing photographers with serene nature shots.
A picturesque lake surrounded by forest, perfect for capturing reflections and wildlife photography opportunities.
Offers a glimpse of local history with scenic backdrops, ideal for capturing culturally rich photographs.
Food in Enumclaw
Enumclaw Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A creamy and hearty chowder featuring the freshest Pacific Northwest salmon, often served with local crusty bread. Not to be missed at the historic Kettle Restaurant.
Must-Try!
Indulge in the sweet and tangy flavors of huckleberries in a classic pie, best enjoyed at the Pioneer Coffee Co. & Cafe.
Savor the briny taste of oysters freshly harvested from the nearby Pacific coast. The Oyster Bar at Kelly's Mercantile is a popular spot to enjoy these delicacies.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Experience the bustling Enumclaw Farmers Market where you can find a variety of locally produced goods, from organic fruits and vegetables to artisanal cheeses and handmade chocolates.
Explore the lively food truck scene in downtown Enumclaw, offering an array of global cuisines and innovative culinary creations. Don't miss the tacos at Los Chilangos food truck.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Enumclaw, residents appreciate politeness and friendliness. A simple smile and greeting can go a long way in creating a positive atmosphere and building rapport with locals.
Enumclaw is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes. It is important to respect these outdoor spaces by following local laws, keeping areas clean, and being mindful of wildlife and natural habitats.
Participating in local festivals, farmers' markets, and community gatherings is a great way to show respect for Enumclaw's cultural norms. Engaging with community activities helps foster a sense of belonging and appreciation for local traditions.
Safety
Tipping in Enumclaw
Ensure a smooth experience
In Enumclaw, like much of the United States, tipping is customary in service industries. Standard tipping practices suggest leaving 15-20% of the total bill for waitstaff at restaurants, with higher tips for exceptional service. In bars, tipping $1-2 per drink is common. Tipping is also appreciated for services such as haircuts, taxi rides, and hotel staff.
Payment methods in Enumclaw vary by establishment but commonly include cash, credit cards, and mobile payment options. Most restaurants and retail stores accept major credit cards. Local businesses may also offer special promotions or discounts for cash payments. There's an increasing trend toward contactless payments, especially post-pandemic.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May) is a delightful time to visit Enumclaw as the weather begins to warm up and the flowers start to bloom. Expect mild temperatures, ranging from 40°F to 70°F (4°C to 21°C). This season is perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking and exploring the stunning landscapes of Mount Rainier National Park, which is nearby.
Summer (June to August) features warm, pleasant weather with temperatures averaging between 55°F to 80°F (13°C to 27°C). This is the peak tourist season with outdoor festivals and events. Visitors can enjoy activities like hiking, biking, and horseback riding, as well as visiting local farms and enjoying fresh produce.
Fall (September to November) is characterized by cooler temperatures, ranging from 40°F to 70°F (4°C to 21°C), and beautiful autumn foliage. This season is ideal for those who enjoy scenic drives and photography. Additionally, various harvest events and festivals offer a taste of local culture.
Winter (December to February) can be quite cold, with temperatures ranging from 30°F to 50°F (-1°C to 10°C). While Enumclaw experiences occasional snowfall, the area becomes a winter wonderland for those who appreciate snow sports. Visitors can head to nearby ski resorts or enjoy cozy indoor activities and holiday celebrations.
Enumclaw at Night
Hiking in Enumclaw
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning national park featuring diverse ecosystems, wildflower-filled meadows, and trails ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes, all with breathtaking views of Mount Rainier.
Offers several hiking trails with panoramic views of the Cascade Range and wildflower displays during the summer months, including the popular Naches Peak Loop Trail.
A scenic hike through the lush forests of the Cascades, leading to beautiful alpine lakes, ideal for nature lovers and those seeking a tranquil experience.
A rewarding hike that leads to expansive views of Mount Rainier and the surrounding valleys, offering a moderate challenge for hikers.
Features peaceful forest trails, easy hike options, and educational exhibits about the forest ecosystem, making it perfect for families and casual hikers.
Aiports
How to reach Enumclaw by plane.
The primary international airport serving Seattle and the surrounding metropolitan area, located approximately 30 miles west of Enumclaw.
The largest airport in Oregon, located about 130 miles south of Enumclaw, serving the Portland metropolitan area and the Pacific Northwest.
Located about 25 miles west of Enumclaw, Boeing Field serves primarily as a general aviation airport, but also handles some commercial traffic.
Located approximately 275 miles east of Enumclaw, serving the Spokane area and surrounding regions as the largest airport in Eastern Washington.
Located about 130 miles north of Enumclaw in Richmond, British Columbia, YVR serves as a major gateway for international travelers to Canada.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Caucasian residents, making up the majority of the population.
A significant demographic group, contributing to the cultural diversity of Enumclaw.
Includes individuals of Asian descent, representing a smaller, yet notable portion of the community.
A smaller demographic group within Enumclaw, contributing to the overall diversity.
Residents identifying with multiple racial categories, reflecting the growing diversity.
A very small percentage of the population, representing indigenous heritage.
Individuals identifying with races not specifically categorized elsewhere.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is a popular team sport in Enumclaw, with many youth leagues and adult clubs participating in local competitions.
Baseball has a strong community presence in Enumclaw, with local teams and leagues for all ages, fostering a love for the game.
High school football is particularly popular in Enumclaw, with enthusiastic support from the local community and school spirit.
Basketball is widely played in Enumclaw, with various recreational leagues and school teams engaging both youth and adults.
Given Enumclaw's rural setting, equestrian sports are quite popular, including horse shows and rodeos that attract many participants and spectators.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Enumclaw.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Enumclaw's restaurants and cafes are increasingly offering vegetarian and vegan-friendly options, with many establishments accommodating dietary preferences and restrictions. Notable venues include The Historic Mint Restaurant and Chinook Cafe.
Visitors with gluten-free dietary needs will find an increasing number of options in Enumclaw, with a range of gluten-free dishes available at restaurants such as Hometown Restaurant and the food trucks at Food Truck Frenzy.