COAST RANGE

The Coast Range and parallel areas between the mountain and the Pacific Ocean are geologically older and eroded in comparison to the Cascade Mountains. The coastal subregion extends along the entire western side of the region. Elevations rise from sea level to approximately 6000 feet. The range is bisected by major rivers, which originate on the western slopes and flow a short distance into the Pacific. These rivers include the Umqua, Siletz, and Nehalem in Oregon and the Chehalis (map)  (Upper Chehalis Basin / Lower Chehalis Basin), Quinalt, and Soleduck in Washington. All of these rivers are named for local Indian groups that once inhabited the coastal zone. Descendants of these groups now live on reservations in the coastal zone. Lewis and Clark spent one winter near Astoria. Their reports of continual rain and grayness discouraged Euro-Americans. Eventually, commercial fishing, port facilities and sightseeing attracted permanent residents. Coos Bay, Newport, Tillamook, Astoria, Aberdeen, and Port Angeles are important population centers. Timber harvesting on privately owned land has radically transformed the mountain range as timber production moves into a third and fourth cutting cycle.

The Olympic Mountains are unique in the subregion. Rising dramatically from sea level to approximately 8000 feet, the Olympics are recognized for their beauty and remoteness. The mountains dominate the Olympic Peninsula and are visible from Seattle and Victoria, British Columbia. Cedar, hemlock and Douglas fir grow in response to high levels of rainfall, making the mountains a part of the Pacific Northwest temperate rainforest. Large portions of the mountains have been set aside as the Olympic National Park. A thriving art community in Port Townsend also attracts visitors to the Olympic peninsula.