Clarkston offers small-town life along the Snake River
Clarkston is a small Washington city on the Idaho state line, known as the Gateway to Hells Canyon, the deepest river gorge in the country. While that might sound intimidating, it just means there’s lots of natural recreation for homeowners in the community. “I think it’s a destination for people that like boating and jet skiing because Clarkston happens to be on the Snake River, and it’s right next to the entrance to Hells Canyon,” says Justin Cofer, the owner and broker of Beasley Realty, who has over a decade of experience. “A lot of people that like fishing and things like that love Clarkston because you can literally walk down on the levees and walk to the river for watersports.” In addition to its recreation, Clarkston is notable for its vintage homes and proximity to the neighboring city of Lewiston, Idaho, which has a broad mix of shopping.
Vintage homes sit side-by-side on city streets
Much of the housing in Clarkston is established cottages and bungalows from the first half of the 20th century. These are often situated on small city lots that make it easy to get to know the neighbors. Most streets have sidewalks, and leafy trees cast shade over the homes. There are some midcentury ranch-style homes in the area as well. Many houses in the community have been remodeled or renovated, with features ranging from new wiring and plumbing to updated flooring and kitchens. Most homes in Clarkston sell for $150,000 to $450,000.
Boating and fishing are ways of life in Clarkston
Clarkston’s location on the Snake River offers easy access to activities like boating and fishing. Residents can start a day on the water at places like the Greenbelt Boat Ramp or Swallows Park, just south of town. Anglers can try their luck at catching species like steelhead, trout and bass in the river. Residents who don’t own a boat can book a trip with any of the local guides, which offer scenic boat tours upriver in Hells Canyon and guided fishing charters. Beachview Park is the largest green space in Clarkston, set high on a bluff above the river. This park has picnic areas, a playground, a skate park and a basketball court. The vast space and scenic views make it a popular spot for gatherings with friends and family. Chestnut Street leads down the hillside below Beachview Park to Chestnut Beach, a 4-acre site operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Here, locals can swim in the river or enjoy a waterfront picnic.
A mix of locally owned and chain businesses in the Lewis-Clark Valley
Clarkston and its sister city of Lewiston have a wide variety of shopping and dining, including riverside eateries. “I would say Roosters Waterfront Restaurant is a good spot. It’s really nice because it’s right by the water and they have a marina. You can get drinks and cocktails and food,” Cofer says. Tomato Bros. is another highly rated Clarkston restaurant serving Italian cuisine and steak. Across the river in Lewiston, Main Street has a mix of locally owned shops and restaurants. Central Lewiston has chain retailers like Home Depot, T.J. Maxx and Sportsman’s Warehouse. Clarkston’s shopping scene includes stores like Albertsons, Costco and Walmart.
Earning college credit at Clarkston High School
Grantham Elementary School gets a C from Niche, while Lincoln Middle School receives a B-minus. Clarkston High School also earns a B-minus and offers several dual enrollment courses, including the Running Start program, which allows students to earn credit through Walla Walla Community College. The school also has multiple award-winning clubs and organizations, such as FFA, JROTC and marching band.
Highways and bus routes offer commutes around the region
U.S. Route 12 is a major east-west highway in the area, leading through Washington and Idaho. U.S. Route 95 passes through Lewiston and leads north-south through Idaho. The Asotin County Public Transportation Benefit Area provides several bus routes through Clarkston, including two that cross the river into Lewiston.
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Written By
Matthew Atkins
