Clyde Hill, WA

County: King

History

Clyde Hill, Washington

Clyde Hill is a city located in King County, Washington. It is a small residential community that is part of the broader Seattle metropolitan area. The area where Clyde Hill now stands was historically inhabited by the Duwamish people.

The early European settlers arrived in the mid-19th century, and by the late 1800s, logging became the primary industry in the region. The city's name, Clyde Hill, is said to have originated from a Scottish settler named Donald McDonald, who named his house "Clyde Brae" after his birthplace in Scotland.

In the early 1900s, the Puget Mill Company established a logging camp known as Kennydale, near the present-day location of Clyde Hill. This camp served as a base for logging operations and housed many workers and their families. As the timber industry grew, more people settled in the area.

Clyde Hill began to take shape as a community in the 1940s and 1950s, with the development of housing subdivisions. The city's location on a hilltop offered scenic views of Lake Washington and the surrounding area, attracting affluent residents.

In 1953, Clyde Hill officially became incorporated as a city, primarily to control land use and maintain the residential character of the area. The city implemented zoning regulations to preserve its spacious, suburban environment and ensure a high quality of life for its residents.

Today, Clyde Hill is known for its affluent neighborhoods, large properties, and beautiful views. It is a primarily residential city with relatively low population density compared to its neighboring cities. Many of the original mid-century homes have been replaced with modern mansions, reflecting the city's reputation for upscale living.

Clyde Hill remains a desirable place to live, offering a peaceful and scenic setting while being located within easy reach of downtown Seattle and its amenities.

Attractions

Clyde Hill Beach Park

Some attractions in Clyde Hill, WA are:

Clyde Hill Beach Park

A small waterfront park with a sandy beach area, picnic tables, and views of Lake Washington.

Southeast Greenbelt

A dense forested area with walking trails, great for nature walks and bird watching.

Bellevue Botanical Garden

Located nearby in Bellevue, this 53-acre garden features display gardens, woodlands, and natural wetlands.

Bellevue Arts Museum

Just a short drive away in Bellevue, this museum showcases contemporary art and craft exhibitions.

Downtown Kirkland

A vibrant neighborhood with boutique shops, art galleries, waterfront parks, and a variety of restaurants.

Mercer Slough Nature Park

Situated in nearby Bellevue, this park offers nature trails, boardwalks, and canoe and kayak rentals for exploring the wetland ecosystem.

Microsoft Visitor Center

Located in Redmond, the Microsoft Visitor Center showcases the history, products, and innovation of the technology giant.

Marymoor Park

A large park in nearby Redmond with biking trails, sports fields, an outdoor concert venue, and a dog park.

Columbia Winery

A popular winery in nearby Woodinville, where visitors can taste a variety of wines and take guided tours of the vineyards.

Chateau Ste. Michelle Winery

Another famed winery in Woodinville, offering wine tastings, tours, and outdoor summer concerts.

Climate

Clyde Hill, Washington, experiences a moderate climate with mild summers and cool winters. The city is located in King County, on the east side of Lake Washington, and is part of the Seattle metropolitan area.

Summers in Clyde Hill are generally warm and dry, with average temperatures ranging from the mid-70s°F (around 23-26°C) in June to the low-80s°F (around 27-29°C) in July and August. July is usually the warmest month, with some occasional hot days exceeding 90°F (32°C). The region benefits from the "marine effect" of the nearby Puget Sound, which helps to moderate temperatures and prevent extreme heat.

Winters in Clyde Hill are wet and cool, though not excessively cold. December, January, and February are the coldest months, with average temperatures in the mid-30s to mid-40s°F (around 1-7°C). Snowfall is relatively rare, with only a few inches per year, and it often quickly melts away. However, the area occasionally experiences snowstorms or colder air masses from the east that can bring more substantial snowfall.

Rainfall is spread throughout the year in Clyde Hill, with the wettest months being November and December. The city receives an average annual precipitation of around 40 inches (about 1,000 millimeters). Cloudy days are common, particularly during the fall and winter months, but the area also experiences a fair share of sunny days, especially during the summer.

Overall, Clyde Hill enjoys a pleasant climate, with mild summers, cool winters, and an abundant supply of precipitation contributing to the lush greenery that characterizes the Pacific Northwest.

Neighborhoods

Clyde Hill is a small city located in the Eastside region of King County, Washington. Despite its small size, it is known for its affluent neighborhoods and beautiful residential areas. Here are some notable neighborhoods in Clyde Hill:

Summit

The Summit neighborhood is one of the most prestigious residential areas in Clyde Hill. It is characterized by large, luxurious homes with expansive lawns and breathtaking views of Lake Washington, the Seattle skyline, and the Olympic Mountains. The neighborhood is known for its privacy, tranquility, and exclusive properties.

Clyde Hill Park

Situated in the heart of Clyde Hill, the Clyde Hill Park neighborhood offers a mix of spacious homes and smaller, more affordable properties. It features tree-lined streets, well-maintained parks, and a strong sense of community. Clyde Hill Park is popular among families looking for a safe and family-friendly environment.

Vuecrest

Located on the western slope of Clyde Hill, Vuecrest is an upscale neighborhood known for its stunning panoramic views. The area mainly consists of luxurious mid-century modern homes and offers a secluded and serene atmosphere. Vuecrest is conveniently situated, providing easy access to downtown Bellevue, Seattle, and major employment centers.

Hunts Point

While not technically part of Clyde Hill, Hunts Point is a neighboring community that shares many similarities. It is located on a peninsula just south of Clyde Hill and is known for its high-end waterfront properties and spectacular views. Hunts Point offers a private and exclusive lifestyle with a strong emphasis on waterfront living.

Yarrow Point

Another nearby neighborhood, Yarrow Point is a small residential community with a mix of waterfront and interior properties. It is known for its peaceful atmosphere and close-knit community. Yarrow Point is highly sought after due to its prime location, beautiful homes, and access to beaches, parks, and outdoor recreational activities.

Overall, Clyde Hill and its neighboring communities offer a variety of desirable neighborhoods, each with its own unique charm and appeal. Whether you're looking for upscale estates, waterfront properties, or a family-oriented community, Clyde Hill has options to suit diverse preferences.

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