According to ezhoushan.net, Clackamas County, Oregon, is located in the northern Willamette Valley, just south of Portland. The county covers an area of 1,883 square miles and is home to a population of approximately 415,000 people. It is one of the most populous counties in the state and has a diverse population consisting of various ethnic and racial backgrounds.
The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Chinook, Kalapuya, Molalla, Clackamas, and Tualatin. The first settlers arrived in 1843 and established several towns including Oregon City, which was named after the state itself. Since then Clackamas County has grown to become one of Oregon’s most vibrant communities with a rich cultural history.
Clackamas County offers plenty of attractions for residents and visitors alike. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore nearby Mt Hood National Forest or take part in activities such as fishing on one of the many rivers running through the county. History buffs can visit various sites such as Champoeg State Park or historical museums throughout the region that document Clackamas County’s past. Shopping lovers will find plenty to do at Clackamette Cove Shopping Center or explore Downtown Oregon City for unique boutiques and restaurants.
Clackamas County is also home to many famous people including author Ursula K Le Guin; actor David Ogden Stiers; musician Dan Reed; professional golfer Peter Jacobsen; former NFL player Ken Simonton; U.S Senator Jeff Merkley; former governor John Kitzhaber; and Olympian Ashton Eaton among others who have all made their mark on this great county.
From its diverse population to its abundance of attractions and activities there’s something for everyone in Clackamas County. Whether you’re looking for outdoor fun or shopping sprees you won’t be disappointed with all that this beautiful region has to offer.
Climate and weather in Clackamas County, Oregon
According to anycountyprivateschools.com, Clackamas County, Oregon has a temperate climate with mild winters and warm summers. The average temperature in the summer is around 70°F (21°C), while the winter temperatures average around 40°F (4°C). Precipitation is fairly evenly spread throughout the year, with an average of about 39.5 inches (100 cm) of rain per year. Snowfall is uncommon in Clackamas County, though it does occasionally occur in higher elevations. Snowfall averages around 10 inches (25 cm) each year, usually occurring between November and March. The area typically experiences a few days of snow per year, but it rarely accumulates to more than a few inches at most.
The weather in Clackamas County can be unpredictable and change from day-to-day or even hour-to-hour. Thunderstorms are common during the summer months due to the warm air masses that move into the region from the Pacific Ocean and other areas further south. During these storms, heavy rains can sometimes cause flash flooding in low lying areas or near rivers and streams. Winters can bring foggy conditions as well as occasional cold snaps that can last for several days at a time. Although spring and autumn are generally milder than winter or summer, they can still bring some surprises such as strong winds or even an early snowstorm.
Transportation in Clackamas County, Oregon
Clackamas County, Oregon is served by a comprehensive transportation network. The county is connected to the greater Portland metropolitan area by several major highways including Interstate 205, which runs east-west through the southern part of the county, and Interstate 84, which runs north-south along the eastern edge of Clackamas County. Public bus service is provided by TriMet which operates several routes that serve many of the cities and towns in Clackamas County. Additionally, there are numerous local bus routes that provide service to smaller communities and rural areas within the county.
For those who prefer to travel via rail, Amtrak provides service from Portland Union Station to points throughout Oregon and Washington State. There is also a light rail line that connects Portland with Milwaukie and Oak Grove in Clackamas County. The MAX light rail system also serves Gresham, Troutdale and other cities in Multnomah County just north of Clackamas County.
The Portland International Airport (PDX) is located just outside of Clackamas County in nearby Multnomah County and provides air service to many domestic destinations as well as international flights to Canada, Mexico, Europe, Asia and South America. Additionally, there are several smaller regional airports located within Clackamas County that offer private charter services or limited commercial flights.
In addition to these public transportation options, there are numerous taxi companies operating throughout Clackamas County providing a convenient way for individuals or groups to get around without having to rely on their own vehicle or public transit services.
Cities and towns in Clackamas County, Oregon
According to countryaah.com, Clackamas County, Oregon is home to numerous cities and towns. The largest city in the county is Oregon City, which is located along the Willamette River and has a population of around 35,000. Other larger cities include Milwaukie, West Linn, Happy Valley and Wilsonville.
The county also includes many smaller towns and unincorporated communities including Estacada, Eagle Creek, Boring, Sandy and Canby. These small towns offer a slower pace of life and are often surrounded by beautiful natural scenery.
Oregon City is the oldest city in Clackamas County with a history that dates back to 1829 when it was first established as part of the Oregon Territory. It was also the first incorporated city west of the Rocky Mountains and was once the capital of Oregon. Today, it is home to several historic buildings including the End of The Oregon Trail Interpretive Center which features interactive exhibits about early pioneers who settled in Oregon.
Milwaukie is known as “Dogwood City” due to its abundance of flowering trees in springtime. It is also home to several craft breweries including Stickmen Brewing Company and Rogue Ales & Spirits which produce some of the best beer in the region.
West Linn sits on a bluff overlooking Willamette Falls which provides stunning views from anywhere in town. It also has plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities such as hiking trails along the river or canoeing on nearby Oswego Lake.
Happy Valley is a relatively new town that was incorporated as recently as 1998 but has since grown rapidly into one of Clackamas County’s most popular destinations thanks to its close proximity to Portland while still providing a small-town atmosphere with plenty of outdoor activities such as golfing at Happy Valley Golf Course or visiting nearby Mt Scott Park for some fishing or swimming at North Fork Reservoir.
Wilsonville sits near I-5 just south of Portland and offers easy access to all that Portland has to offer while still maintaining its own unique identity with plenty of shopping centers, restaurants, parks and other attractions for visitors or locals alike to enjoy year round.