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Enumclaw, WA

Frequently asked questions

Enumclaw, WA

Enumclaw is a city in King County, Washington, United States. The population was 12,543 at the 2020 census. The Enumclaw Plateau, on which the city resides, was formed by a volcanic mudflow (lahar) from Mount Rainier approximately 5,700 years ago.

The name Enumclaw is derived from the Sahaptin word /inɨmɬá/, meaning "he who makes noise", from to /ínɨmn/, "to neigh, bray, sing", and /-ɬa/, "he who". Sometimes it is said that "Enumclaw" translates as "place of evil spirits", apparently referring to Enumclaw Mountain, located about 6 miles (9.7 km) to the north. According to legend, the mountain's name was derived from an evil incident that occurred there, or to the occasional powerful windstorms from the east that affect the region. Native American mythology tells the story of two brothers – Enumclaw and Kapoonis – who were turned into thunder and lightning, respectively, by their father. The City of Enumclaw says the name means "thundering noise". 

One of the first white settlers in South King County was Allen L. Porter. In 1853, he claimed a 320-acre (1.3 km²) parcel on the White River, about three miles (5 km) west of the site of Enumclaw. He maintained a troubled relationship with the local Smalkamish tribe (some of the ancestors of the Muckleshoot tribe) for some time, and in 1855 his cabin was burned to the ground. Porter, who had been warned by a friend in the tribe, hid in the woods until they had left. After warning the settlers at Fort Steilacoom, he left the area, moving to Roy. He would never return to Enumclaw.

The city was incorporated on January 27, 1913. In 1929, a much-anticipated route to Eastern Washington was opened across the Naches Pass Highway. In the 1950s Enumclaw Insurance Group greatly expanded its business and the home office became a major employer in the town. The company is an insurer doing business in Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and Utah.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 4.27 square miles (11.06 km²), of which, 4.26 square miles (11.03 km²) is land and 0.01 square miles (0.03 km²) is water. While Enumclaw is entirely located in King County, the city owns some park property within the boundaries of Pierce County.

Enumclaw's Virginia Mason St. Elizabeth Hospital is part of the Catholic Health Initiatives (a seven-hospital organization based in Tacoma). The hospital was included on the 2011 list of the 25 "Most Wired" small and rural hospitals in the nation for its use of information technology to support quality patient care and achieve operational efficiencies. It replaced the former Enumclaw Community Hospital in 2011.

The city of Enumclaw places a strong emphasis on health and wellness. The city is home to several fitness centers and yoga studios that promote physical fitness and mental well-being like Yoga Culture. St. Elizabeth Hospital offers comprehensive health services, including wellness check-ups and preventive care programs. Combat Sport & Fitness offers comprehensive fitness programs including cardio, strength training, and group exercise classes. The Enumclaw Aquatic Center is perfect for swimming and water aerobics, offering both recreation and fitness programs. For a holistic wellness experience, visit the Enumclaw Family Chiropractic which combines chiropractic care with nutritional counseling. Outdoor lovers can explore the scenic trails of Mount Peak, ideal for hiking and enjoying nature.  If you prefer a more relaxed activity, Enumclaw Day Spa offers massages and other spa treatments. For family-friendly wellness, the Enumclaw Expo Center hosts various health and wellness fairs throughout the year.

Top sites in Enumclaw WA are Mud Mountain Dam, Thunder Dome Car Museum, and Nolte State Park.

Population: 12,697 (2023). ZIP code: 98022. Area code: 360. Elevation: 745 ft (227 m). Area: 5.17 sq mi (13.40 km²).

FAQs

What is Enumclaw, WA famous for?

Enumclaw is the gateway to Mount Rainier National Park and the Crystal Mountain ski area. It is located along the Chinook Scenic Byway (SR 410), which provides seasonal access to the Yakima Valley and Eastern Washington. Enumclaw has four state parks in close proximity: Nolte, Flaming Geyser, Kanaskat Palmer, and Federation Forest. The Thunder Dome Car Museum chose Enumclaw as its location to build a major museum with vintage cars and paraphernalia. 

Is Enumclaw, Washington a good place to live?

Enumclaw, Washington is a charming small town located in King County. The city is surrounded by breathtaking views of Mount Rainier and the Cascade Mountains, making it the ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. With its close proximity to Seattle, Enumclaw offers easy access to many amenities, yet still maintains a quiet atmosphere. Residents also enjoy plenty of local activities such as hiking, biking, fishing and golfing. Whether you’re looking for some rest and relaxation or an adventure in nature, Enumclaw is the perfect place to be.

Why is it called Enumclaw, WA?

Enumclaw is situated at an elevation of 750 feet above sea level in a pastoral setting between plateau farmlands and the Cascade Mountains. Early settlers called this area “Stevensonville,” but the name later changed to Enumclaw (which means "thundering noise") after Enumclaw Mountain near town. Enumclaw was platted on October 31, 1885, when the railroad decided to come through this area, and was incorporated on January 27, 1913.

Sources

City of Enumclaw

Wikipedia

Best Places

Visit Enumclaw

Mud Mountain Dam

Thunder Dome Car Museum

Nolte State Park

Yoga Culture

St. Elizabeth Hospital

Combat Sport & Fitness

Enumclaw Aquatic Center

Enumclaw Family Chiropractic

Mount Peak

Enumclaw Day Spa

Enumclaw Expo Center

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