Selah, WA

Selah is a city located in Yakima County, Washington, United States. Its history dates back to the mid-19th century when the area was inhabited by the Yakama Indian tribe. The Yakama people lived in the region for thousands of years, relying on the abundant natural resources of the area for their sustenance.

White settlers first arrived in the Selah area in the 1860s, drawn by the fertile land and the potential for farming and agriculture. In 1886, the Northern Pacific Railway extended its line through the area, further encouraging settlement and growth. The community that developed around the railway became known as "North Yakima" (now known as Yakima), and Selah was a small farming community nearby.

Selah was officially incorporated as a town in 1919, and its name comes from the Hebrew word "Selah," which means "a pause or rest." This name was chosen by the city's founder and first postmaster, Charles Adams, who wanted to reflect the peaceful atmosphere of the area.

Over the years, Selah continued to grow and develop. The construction of the Wapato Dam in the 1930s further boosted agricultural activities in the region, ensuring a steady water supply for irrigation. It allowed the farming community to flourish, with apples and other fruits becoming a significant agricultural product.

In the mid-20th century, the town experienced significant growth due to the expansion of the military presence in the region. The U.S. Army's Yakima Training Center was established nearby, bringing in new residents and supporting the local economy.

Today, Selah is a thriving community known for its scenic beauty and agricultural heritage. The city remains an important center for farming and agriculture, with apple orchards, vineyards, and hop fields dotting the landscape. It also offers various recreational activities, such as hiking, fishing, and exploring the nearby Yakima River Canyon.

Selah's history is celebrated through various annual events, such as the Selah Community Days, which includes a parade, live music, and community gatherings. The city continues to grow while preserving its small-town charm and appreciation for its historical roots.

Yakima River Canyon Scenic Byway

This scenic byway offers breathtaking views of the Yakima River Canyon, with opportunities for hiking, biking, fishing, and wildlife spotting.

Tree Top Adventure Park

A popular outdoor recreational park featuring zip lines, obstacle courses, and aerial adventures suitable for all ages and skill levels.

Rattlesnake Hills Wine Trail

Selah is located in the heart of Washington's wine country, and the Rattlesnake Hills Wine Trail offers a chance to visit and taste wines at multiple vineyards and wineries in the area.

Selah's Downtown Mural Project

The town of Selah is renowned for its vibrant downtown murals, showcasing the rich history and culture of the area. Visitors can take a self-guided tour to admire these beautiful artworks.

Naches Heights Vineyard

Situated just west of Selah, Naches Heights Vineyard is a popular destination for wine tastings, tours, and events in a scenic hilltop location.

Selah Aquatic Center

A family-friendly water park featuring water slides, lazy rivers, splash pads, and swimming pools for all ages to enjoy during the summer months.

Selah Ridge Lavender Farm

A picturesque lavender farm where visitors can wander through fragrant fields, purchase lavender products, and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Jim Sprick Community Park

A spacious park offering various recreational activities such as walking trails, sports fields, playgrounds, picnic areas, and a skate park.

Selah History Museum

Located in Selah's downtown area, this museum showcases the town's history through exhibits, artifacts, and photographs.

U-pick Farms

Selah and its surrounding area are home to several U-pick farms, where visitors can harvest their own fresh fruits and vegetables, such as apples, cherries, strawberries, and more.

Selah, Washington has a semi-arid climate. The town experiences hot, dry summers and cold winters. Overall, Selah has four distinct seasons with varying weather patterns. Here is a breakdown of the climate in Selah:

Summers (June to August)

Summers in Selah are hot and dry. Average high temperatures range from the upper 80s°F (30°C) to the lower 90s°F (32°C). July and August are usually the hottest months, with occasional heatwaves pushing temperatures into the 100s°F (38°C+). Precipitation during this season is very limited.

Fall (September to November)

Fall in Selah brings cooler temperatures compared to summer. Average highs start in the upper 70s°F (25°C) in September and drop to the lower 50s°F (10°C) by November. The evenings can be quite cool. Precipitation slightly increases, and occasional rain showers are common.

Winter (December to February)

Winters in Selah are cold with occasional snowfall. Average daytime highs range from the upper 30s°F (3-4°C) to the upper 40s°F (8-9°C), but temperatures can drop below freezing at night. Snowfall is common, with an average of around 14 inches per year. However, severe snowstorms are rare.

Spring (March to May)

Spring sees a gradual warming trend in Selah. Average high temperatures start in the lower 50s°F (10°C) in March and reach the upper 60s°F (18-20°C) by May. Precipitation levels increase during spring, with rain showers being more frequent.

It is important to note that Selah is located in the rain shadow of the Cascade Mountains, which results in less precipitation compared to areas on the western slope of the mountains. The town receives approximately 9 inches of rainfall annually.

Selah, WA is a small city located in Yakima County, Washington. While it may not have a large number of distinct neighborhoods, there are a few notable areas within Selah that offer unique characteristics and amenities.

Downtown Selah

This is the heart of Selah and the primary commercial area. Downtown is home to a variety of businesses, shops, restaurants, and local services. It's a quaint and walkable area where you can find everything from small boutiques to local cafes.

Carriage Hill

Located on the eastern side of Selah, Carriage Hill is a residential neighborhood known for its scenic views and picturesque landscapes. It offers a mix of housing options, including single-family homes with spacious lots. Many properties in this area enjoy panoramic views of the Yakima Valley.

Terrace Heights

Just north of Selah, Terrace Heights is a predominantly residential neighborhood that offers a suburban feel. This area is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and close-knit community. Terrace Heights provides easy access to schools, parks, and has a few local amenities, such as grocery stores and restaurants.

Selah Heights

Situated on the southwestern side of Selah, Selah Heights is an area that provides a mix of residential properties and rural landscapes. It offers a more secluded and private setting, with homes that often sit on larger lots. Selah Heights is known for its serene natural beauty and stunning views of the surrounding hills.

Overall, Selah, WA offers a range of neighborhoods that cater to different preferences and lifestyles. Whether you're looking for a vibrant downtown experience or a quiet suburban retreat, Selah has something to offer.