Buckley, WA

Buckley, Washington, is a small city located in Pierce County. It was named after the pioneer James Buckley, who settled in the area around 1882.

The history of Buckley goes back to the mid-19th century when the area was inhabited by members of the Nisqually and Puyallup Native American tribes. In the 1850s, European settlers began to arrive in the region, starting the process of homesteading.

James Buckley, for whom the city is named, arrived in the area in 1882. He established a homestead and opened a hotel, serving as a resting point for travelers going to the gold mines in the Cascade Mountains. In 1884, the Northern Pacific Railroad was extended to the vicinity, greatly contributing to the growth and development of the town.

With the arrival of the railroad, lumber mills and coal mines soon sprouted up in the area. These industries became the backbone of Buckley's economy, attracting more settlers to the city. By the early 20th century, Buckley had become an essential lumber processing center, with multiple mills operating in the region.

In 1890, Buckley was officially incorporated as a town. Its strategic location near the railroad and rich natural resources continued to drive its growth. Logging and coal mining remained the main industries, but agriculture, including dairy farming, also played a significant role in the local economy.

Buckley faced numerous challenges throughout its history. In the early 20th century, a destructive fire burned down many of the city's wooden structures, prompting the construction of more fire-resistant buildings. World War I and the Great Depression impacted the local economy, leading to the closure of several mills and mines. However, Buckley managed to adapt and survive.

Today, Buckley is a thriving community with a population of around 4,500. While many of the traditional industries have declined, the city has diversified its economy. It has become a bedroom community for nearby larger cities like Tacoma and Seattle, with many residents commuting for work. Buckley remains proud of its history and small-town charm, with annual events like the Buckley Log Show celebrating its logging heritage.

Foothills Historical Society

This museum displays the history and artifacts of Buckley and the surrounding areas.

Buckley Log Show

An annual event featuring loggers and their skills in the community.

White River Valley Museum

Located in nearby Auburn, this museum focuses on the history and culture of the White River Valley, including Buckley.

Nolte State Park

A beautiful park offering hiking trails, fishing, and picnicking along the shores of Deep Lake.

Enumclaw Expo Center

Located nearby in Enumclaw, this event and sports complex hosts various events, including rodeos, fairs, and concerts.

Crystal Mountain Resort

A popular ski resort located near Buckley, offering skiing, snowboarding, mountain biking, and scenic gondola rides.

Mud Mountain Dam and Reservoir

A picturesque destination for fishing, boating, and picnicking with stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Wapati Wildlife Area

A wildlife refuge with walking trails, birdwatching opportunities, and the chance to see various animal species in their natural habitat.

Rainier View Winery

A local winery in Graham, just a short drive from Buckley, offering wine tasting, tours, and beautiful views of Mount Rainier.

Cascade Foothills Farmland Association

This organization aims to preserve and celebrate the agricultural heritage of the Buckley area, with events and programs focused on farming, gardening, and local food production.

Buckley, WA, has a marine west coast climate, which is also referred to as a temperate marine climate. This type of climate is characterized by relatively mild and wet winters, and cool summers. Here are some specific details about the climate in Buckley:

Temperature

The average high temperature in Buckley ranges from the mid-40s°F (7°C) in winter to the mid-70s°F (24°C) in summer. The average low temperatures range from the mid-20s°F (-5°C) in winter to the mid-50s°F (10°C) in summer.

Precipitation

Buckley receives moderate to high amounts of precipitation throughout the year. On average, the town receives about 55 inches (140 cm) of rain per year, with slightly higher amounts during the winter months. Snowfall is relatively rare but possible in winter, with an average of 9 inches (23 cm) per year.

Sunshine

While Buckley experiences a fair amount of cloud cover, it still receives a good amount of sunshine. The town averages around 152 sunny days per year.

Wind

Buckley experiences moderate winds throughout the year, with average wind speeds ranging from 5 to 15 mph (8-24 km/h).

Seasons

The four seasons are distinct in Buckley. Winters are mild but wet, with occasional snowfall. Spring brings cool temperatures and increased rainfall. Summers are generally pleasant, with warm temperatures but rarely exceeding 90°F (32°C). Autumn is mild and gradually becomes cooler as the season progresses.

Overall, Buckley, WA, has a temperate climate with mild winters, cool summers, and a moderate amount of rainfall throughout the year.

Buckley, Washington is a small community located in Pierce County. While it is a relatively small town, there are a few distinct neighborhoods within Buckley that offer a variety of amenities and characteristics. Here's an overview of some of these neighborhoods:

Downtown Buckley

This is the heart of the town, where you'll find the historical main street area with charming shops, restaurants, and local businesses. It's a walkable area with a small-town feel and a tight-knit community.

Cedar Ridge

Located on the eastern side of Buckley, Cedar Ridge is a residential neighborhood consisting mainly of single-family homes. The area has a suburban atmosphere with quiet streets and a mix of older and newer homes.

Carbonado

Adjacent to Buckley, Carbonado is a small town nestled in the foothills of the Cascade Mountains. It offers a rural setting and beautiful natural surroundings. Carbonado has its own school, post office, and distinct character.

Elk Heights

Situated on the southern outskirts of Buckley, Elk Heights is a newer residential development with a mix of single-family homes and townhouses. This neighborhood is known for its views of Mount Rainier and its proximity to local parks and trails.

Copperwynd

Another newer development in Buckley, Copperwynd is located on the western side of town. It offers a range of housing options, including single-family homes and townhouses. The neighborhood boasts well-maintained streets, landscaping, and a family-friendly environment.

Prairie Ridge

While technically located just outside the city limits of Buckley, Prairie Ridge is a neighboring community that often gets included in the discussion. It's a larger planned community with a mix of residential and commercial areas. Prairie Ridge has its own schools, parks, and amenities.

Each neighborhood in Buckley has its own unique character, but all share the appeal of small-town living and a close-knit community. Whether you prefer a more urban downtown area or a quieter suburban setting, Buckley offers a range of options for residents to choose from.