Umatilla, OR

Umatilla, Oregon is a city located in Umatilla County in the northeastern part of the state. The area where Umatilla is situated has a rich history that dates back far before the city's establishment in the late 19th century.

The Umatilla area was once inhabited by indigenous tribes, including the Umatilla, Walla Walla, and Cayuse tribes. These tribes relied on the nearby rivers for fishing and the abundant wildlife for sustenance. The Lewis and Clark expedition passed through this region in October 1805 during their exploration of the western United States.

European settlers began arriving in the mid-1800s, attracted by the fertile land and abundant resources. In the early 1850s, Robert Newell and Joseph Meek founded the Umatilla Trading Post near the Umatilla River, which became an important hub for fur trade.

In 1862, a gold rush in nearby Idaho caused an influx of settlers in the Umatilla area, leading to the establishment of the Umatilla City as a boomtown. However, the gold rush quickly subsided, and Umatilla City declined. The nearby Umatilla Indian Reservation was established in 1855 as part of the Treaty of Walla Walla, which recognized the sovereignty of the Umatilla, Walla Walla, and Cayuse tribes.

The city of Umatilla itself was founded in 1864 as a supply center for the military during the Snake War. The town grew steadily with the construction of the Umatilla Locks and Canal System in the 1880s, which allowed steamships to navigate the Columbia River.

In the early 20th century, Umatilla experienced significant transformation and growth due to the establishment of the Umatilla Army Depot in 1941 during World War II. The depot served as a major storage site for conventional ammunition and ordnance materials. It employed thousands of people and brought economic prosperity to the city.

Over the years, Umatilla has continued to evolve, diversify its economy, and expand its infrastructure. Today, the city is home to a mix of industries, including agriculture, manufacturing, and the Umatilla Chemical Depot.

Umatilla's historical significance, cultural heritage, and natural attractions continue to attract visitors who appreciate the city's roots and its rich history.

McNary Dam and Recreation Area

This hydroelectric dam on the Columbia River offers guided tours, fishing, boating, and hiking trails.

Umatilla Fish Hatchery

Visitors can tour the fish hatchery to learn about salmon and steelhead production and watch the fish migration at the underwater viewing station.

Hat Rock State Park

This park features a unique rock formation resembling a hat and offers camping, hiking, and picnicking opportunities.

Echo Historical Museum

Located in nearby Echo, this museum showcases the history and culture of the Umatilla County area through exhibits and artifacts.

The Wildhorse Resort & Casino

Offers a range of casino gaming options, live entertainment, golf course, and various dining options.

Pendleton Round-Up

While not in Umatilla itself, this world-famous rodeo event takes place annually in nearby Pendleton and attracts thousands of visitors.

Cold Springs National Wildlife Refuge

This refuge is a great spot for birdwatching and wildlife photography, with a variety of waterfowl and other wildlife species.

Blue Mountain Wildlife

Located in Weston, this wildlife rehabilitation center offers educational programs and tours to learn about native wildlife.

Pendleton Woolen Mills

In Pendleton, visitors can tour the historic woolen mill and purchase quality blankets, clothing, and home decor made from Pendleton wool.

Walla Walla Valley Wine Country

Umatilla is located near the Walla Walla AVA, known for its excellent wineries and vineyards. Wine enthusiasts can explore and taste wines at various wineries in the region.

Umatilla, Oregon experiences a semi-arid climate with hot summers and cold winters. The area's climate can also be characterized as a continental climate due to its inland location. Here are some key features of the climate in Umatilla:

Summers

Summers in Umatilla are hot and dry. Temperatures often reach the 90s Fahrenheit (32-37°C) during the day, while cooler nights bring relief with temperatures dropping into the 60s (15-20°C). Heatwaves with temperatures exceeding 100°F (38°C) are not uncommon during July and August.

Winters

Winters in Umatilla are cold and often accompanied by snow. Temperatures can vary widely, ranging from below freezing to the mid-40s°F (0 to 7°C) during the day. Snowfall occurs typically between November and February, with average snow accumulation around 17 inches (43 cm) annually.

Precipitation

Umatilla receives relatively low annual precipitation compared to many other parts of Oregon. The area receives an average of around 12 inches (30 cm) of rainfall annually, with the majority occurring during the winter months. Summers are generally dry, with limited rainfall.

Wind

Umatilla experiences moderate to strong winds, especially during spring. The Columbia River Gorge to the north creates a natural channel for winds to accelerate over the area. This makes Umatilla prone to gusty conditions, particularly during the transition seasons.

Sunshine

Umatilla enjoys abundant sunshine throughout the year, with more than 200 sunny days annually. The clear skies contribute to the area's dry and arid climate.

Overall, Umatilla, Oregon experiences a desert-like climate with hot, dry summers and cold, snowy winters. The area is known for its wide temperature fluctuations throughout the year and relatively low precipitation.

Umatilla, Oregon is a small city located in Umatilla County. While it may not have many distinct neighborhoods like larger cities, there are a few areas that offer different characteristics and amenities. Here are some of the neighborhoods you'll find in Umatilla:

Downtown Umatilla

This area is the heart of the city and offers a mix of residential and commercial properties. You'll find local businesses, shops, restaurants, and services in this bustling area. It also features the Umatilla Marina Park, which provides access to the Columbia River and offers recreational activities.

Riverfront

As the name suggests, this neighborhood is located along the Columbia River. It offers spectacular river views and is known for its natural beauty. The Riverfront area is predominantly residential, with a mix of single-family homes and apartment complexes. It's a peaceful and scenic neighborhood.

Southwest Umatilla

Situated towards the southwest of the city, this neighborhood is more residential and features a mix of housing options. You'll find a combination of single-family homes, townhouses, and mobile homes in this area. It is a quiet and family-friendly neighborhood with easy access to schools and parks.

West Umatilla

West Umatilla is another primarily residential neighborhood with a mix of housing options. It offers a suburban feel with tree-lined streets and parks. This neighborhood is known for being close to the Umatilla National Forest, providing residents with opportunities to explore nature and go hiking.

Industrial Area

Umatilla is also home to an industrial area, located towards the east of the city. This area consists of warehouses, manufacturing facilities, and related industries. It provides job opportunities for the community and contributes to the local economy.

While Umatilla may not have a large number of distinct neighborhoods, each area offers its own unique features and advantages. The city is known for its close-knit community, affordable housing, and access to outdoor recreational activities.