Elma, WA

Elma, Washington is a small city located in Grays Harbor County in the western part of the state. The town was founded in 1853 by Jeremiah Smith, who named it after his daughter, Elma.

In the early days, Elma primarily served as a trading post and a stopover point for those traveling to the gold fields in the Washington territory. The town's growth was further fueled by the timber industry, with extensive logging taking place in the surrounding forests. The arrival of the railroad in the 1890s contributed to the town's development as it provided a more efficient means of transportation for the timber and other resources.

Throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Elma experienced economic prosperity due to a booming timber industry. The city had several sawmills and logging operations, providing employment and economic activity for the local community. The population steadily grew, and by 1913, Elma was officially incorporated as a city.

In the mid-20th century, the timber industry began to decline, leading to a slowdown in Elma's growth. However, the city continued to adapt and find new sources of employment and economic development. Today, Elma remains a small community with a population of around 3,000 people.

Despite its smaller size, Elma has become known for various attractions and events. The Grays Harbor County Fairgrounds, located in Elma, hosts the annual Grays Harbor County Fair, which has been a popular community event since 1912. The fair showcases agricultural exhibits, livestock shows, carnival rides, and live entertainment.

Elma is also home to Lake Sylvia State Park, a picturesque recreational area situated around a beautiful freshwater lake. Visitors can enjoy activities such as swimming, boating, fishing, and camping in the park.

Overall, while Elma's history is closely tied to the timber industry, the city has managed to adapt and diversify its economy over the years. Today, it remains a tight-knit community that values its natural surroundings and offers recreational opportunities for locals and visitors alike.

Grays Harbor National Wildlife Refuge

A beautiful refuge that offers great opportunities for bird-watching, hiking, and wildlife viewing.

Elma Lanes

A popular bowling alley that offers a fun environment for families and friends to enjoy some bowling.

Lake Sylvia State Park

A serene state park surrounding Lake Sylvia, offering various outdoor activities like swimming, kayaking, fishing, and hiking.

Satsop Business Park

Formerly a nuclear power plant, it now serves as an industrial park and offers guided tours to visitors.

Elma Auto Racing Hall of Fame

A must-visit for motorsport enthusiasts, showcasing a collection of racing memorabilia and exhibits.

Coach House Restaurant at the Satsop Museum

A historic restaurant located in the Satsop Museum, offering delicious meals with a vintage atmosphere.

Elma Cinema

A local movie theater that showcases the latest films in a comfortable setting.

Whitney Gardens & Nursery

A peaceful garden and nursery offering a wide variety of plants, flowers, and gardening supplies.

Elma Golf Course

A picturesque golf course that provides a challenging game amidst beautiful nature.

Grays Harbor Raceway

A popular dirt track racing venue that holds various races throughout the year, attracting racing enthusiasts from around the region.

Elma, WA, has a mild oceanic climate. Summers are typically dry and warm, while winters are mild and wet. Here are more details about the climate:

Temperature

The average high temperature in Elma ranges from the mid-40s °F (7-9°C) in winter to the mid-70s °F (23-25°C) in summer. The average low temperature ranges from the mid-30s °F (1-4°C) in winter to the mid-50s °F (12-14°C) in summer.

Precipitation

Elma receives an average of around 90 inches (228 cm) of rain per year, which is significantly higher than the US average. Most of the rainfall occurs from October to April, with December and January being the wettest months. Summers are relatively dry.

Snowfall

Elma experiences light snowfall, with an average of about 6 inches (15 cm) per year. Snow is most likely to occur in December and January.

Sunshine

Elma receives about 143 sunny days per year, which is below the national average. The cloud coverage is relatively high throughout the year.

Humidity

Elma tends to have relatively high humidity, particularly during the wetter months. This can contribute to a damp feeling, especially in the colder seasons.

Overall, Elma, WA, has a mild climate characterized by mild summers, wet winters, and relatively temperate temperatures throughout the year.

Elma, Washington is a small town located in Grays Harbor County. While Elma itself is relatively small, it has several different neighborhoods that offer unique characteristics. Here are some of the notable neighborhoods in Elma:

Downtown Elma

The heart of the town, downtown Elma is known for its historic buildings, shops, and small businesses. It offers a quaint and charming atmosphere, with a mix of Victorian and early 20th-century architecture.

South Elma

The southern part of Elma is predominantly residential, featuring a mix of single-family homes and some apartment buildings. This neighborhood offers a quieter and more suburban feel, with tree-lined streets and well-maintained homes.

Central Park

Located east of downtown, the Central Park neighborhood is known for its proximity to Elma's largest park, the aptly named Central Park. This area offers a range of housing options, including older homes and newer developments. It is a family-friendly neighborhood, with easy access to outdoor amenities like sports fields and walking trails.

East Elma

The eastern part of Elma is less developed compared to other neighborhoods. It primarily consists of rural areas, farmlands, and forested areas. This is where you will find larger plots of land, offering a more secluded and peaceful living experience.

Elma-Satsop

Situated to the west of downtown Elma, the Elma-Satsop neighborhood is home to the Satsop Business Park, a former nuclear power plant that has been converted into an industrial park. This area is characterized by a mix of residential areas and industrial facilities, making it a unique part of Elma.

Overall, Elma's neighborhoods offer a mix of small-town charm, residential areas, and natural surroundings. Whether you prefer a bustling downtown scene or a quieter suburban feel, you can find a neighborhood that suits your preferences in Elma.