Clackamas Mountain

Located only seven miles west of the city of Republic, the Clackamas Mountain Roadless Area offers a deep breath of pure wilderness just outside of town. Its southern region cradles what is perhaps Colville National Forest’s grandest dry Douglas fir old growth. The northern region gives way to meadow vistas, bogs and wetlands bubble with wildlife and subalpine firs jet out of the ground. As a bonus at Clackamas Mountain, a hungry traveler might stumble across the delectable velvet-leafed blueberry—a delicious wilderness treat.

Clackamas Mountain contains both the Okanogan Highlands landform and dry Douglas fir forest—two vegetation types underrepresented in Washington’s existing wilderness. The wolverine frequents the thick snags of these forests and Canada lynx and other wildlife use this area as a transition zone to adjacent habitats. Also spotted here is the state-listed, threatened great gray owl, North America’s largest owl. These wonders are enhanced by the area’s unique location—Clackamas is very close to the town of Republic, yet amazingly escapes the impression of humankind and provides a true wilderness experience.