Hazel Dell, WA

About the City
Geography
Climate and Weather
Landmarks
Transport
Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
Museums
Sport and Sports Legends
Universities and Educational Institutions
Healthcare Facilities and Medical Services

Hazel Dell is an unincorporated community in Clark County, Washington, just north of Vancouver. It offers suburban living with access to parks and major highways.

About the City

Official Status and Administrative Affiliation

Official Name: Hazel Dell, Washington. It is an unincorporated area and census-designated place (CDP), meaning it is not part of any incorporated city but is a recognized community for statistical purposes .
Administrative Belonging: Hazel Dell is located in Clark County, in the state of Washington, USA. The county is situated in the Pacific Northwest region and is part of the Portland-Vancouver metropolitan area. As an unincorporated community, it is governed by Clark County, with services like law enforcement provided by the Clark County Sheriff's Office .

Historical Names and Nicknames

Origin of the Name: The area was named by Sarah J. Anderson, one of the first settlers with her husband Reese. She named it after a stand of filberts (hazelnuts) growing on their land near what is now 78th Street and Highway 99 .
Proposed Names: Early residents briefly considered the name "Bear Gulch" . Later, local business leaders proposed renaming the community "Basilville" in honor of a prominent local merchant, Basil Dhanens, but he declined the offer .

Date of Foundation and Age

First Settlers: Oregon Country pioneers Reese and Sarah J. Anderson were Hazel Dell's first settlers .
Age: The area was named in the mid-19th century, making it over 170 years old. Post-World War II, it became one of the first major suburban areas to develop in Clark County .

Geographic Location and Coordinates

Geographic Coordinates: Approximately 45°40′17″N 122°39′46″W .
Position: Hazel Dell is located north and west of the city of Vancouver, Washington. It is bisected by Interstate 5 and lies just east of Vancouver Lake. It is bounded by Vancouver to the south, Lake Shore to the west, Salmon Creek to the north, and Walnut Grove to the east .
Elevation: The elevation of the community is approximately 62-63 meters (205 feet) above sea level .
Type of Settlement: Hazel Dell is a suburban residential and commercial area.

City Type and Economic Specialization

Primary Function: Hazel Dell is primarily a residential suburb and a local commercial center for the northern part of Clark County.
Economic Activity: Its economy is centered around local retail, services, and restaurants. The main business corridor follows NE Highway 99 from about 63rd to 99th Street, featuring shopping centers, grocery chains, auto dealerships, and various local businesses . Many residents commute to jobs in nearby Vancouver and Portland, Oregon .

Population and Demographics

Population: As of the 2020 census, the population of Hazel Dell was 23,569 .
Population Class: It is a moderately sized census-designated place and a significant suburb within the Portland-Vancouver metropolitan area.
Demographic Features: The community has a mix of families and individuals. The median age is around 38, with a fairly even split between males and females . It is a well-established area with working-class homes and a diverse population .

City's "Calling Card" (Briefly)

Hazel Dell is a quintessential Pacific Northwest suburb, offering a peaceful residential atmosphere with mature trees and creeks, while providing easy access to urban amenities via its position along the I-5 corridor. It is known for its community-focused events like the annual Parade of Bands and its proximity to both Vancouver Lake and the city life of Vancouver and Portland .

Geography

Water Bodies

Vancouver Lake: Located a short distance to the west of Hazel Dell, this large lake is a key geographical feature of the area . It offers opportunities for recreation and is a notable natural landmark.
Burnt Bridge Creek: This creek forms part of the southern boundary of Hazel Dell with the city of Vancouver. A multi-use trail runs along the creek, providing a popular spot for walking, running, and biking .
Tenny Creek: A smaller creek that flows through the northeastern part of Hazel Dell, with a neighborhood park bearing its name located along it .

Parks and Natural Areas

Hazel Dell Community Park: Located on NE 68th Street, this is a central park for the community offering green space and recreational facilities .
Tenny Creek Neighborhood Park: Developed in 2007, this park is located along NE 88th Street and preserves the natural setting of the creek .
Jorgenson Park: Another park in the Hazel Dell area, situated near NW 3rd Ave. and NW 70th St. .
Kate and Clarence LaLonde Neighborhood Park: A neighborhood park whose construction was planned for 2010 .
Luke Jensen Sports Park: Located nearby, it serves as a hub for athletic activities and community gatherings .
Burnt Bridge Creek Trail: A significant trail system that runs along Burnt Bridge Creek, providing a scenic route for outdoor activities and connecting to other parts of the county .

Climate and Weather

Climate Type and General Characteristics

Hazel Dell has a warm-summer Mediterranean climate (Köppen Csb) . This region is characterized by warm, dry summers and cool, wet winters.

Average Temperatures

Hottest Month: The warmest months are July and August, with average daily maximum temperatures around 78°F (26°C) .
Coldest Month: The coldest month is December, with an average daily maximum of 44°F (7°C) and an average minimum of 33°F (1°C) .
Overall Averages: The average daily mean temperature throughout the year is around 50.0°F (10.0°C) .

Precipitation and Humidity

Average Yearly Rainfall: Hazel Dell receives a significant amount of rainfall, averaging about 39.1 inches (990 mm) per year .
Wettest Months: The wettest months are November, December, and January, each averaging between 5.8 and 6.4 inches of rain .
Driest Months: The summer months are very dry, with July averaging only 0.8 inches of rain, making it the driest month .
Average Snowfall: Snowfall is light and infrequent, averaging only 1.5 inches (3.8 cm) per year, typically occurring in December, January, and February .

Precipitation Days

Rain Days: The area experiences many days with measurable precipitation, especially in the cooler months. November and December each average over 20 days with precipitation, while July and August average only about 4 days .
Snow Days: Snow days are rare, averaging less than one day per month during the winter .

Seasonality and Best Time to Visit

Summer (June-August): This is the most pleasant time with warm, dry, and sunny weather. It is ideal for exploring parks, hiking the Burnt Bridge Creek trail, and enjoying outdoor activities like visiting Vancouver Lake .
Fall (September-November): Early fall remains pleasant, but the weather becomes increasingly cool and rainy as the season progresses.
Winter (December-February): Winters are cool, cloudy, and wet. While snow is rare, rain is frequent. This season is best for indoor activities or visiting nearby cities.
Spring (March-May): Spring brings gradually warming temperatures and blooming vegetation, but rain is still common.

Landmarks

Notable Events as Landmarks

Hazel Dell Parade of Bands: This is Hazel Dell's signature annual event. Held every third Saturday in May since 1964, it is a beloved community tradition . The parade route follows Highway 99, 78th Street, and Hazel Dell Avenue, featuring marching bands from various schools .

Historical Proposals

Basilville: A notable piece of local lore is the proposal in the mid-20th century to rename the town "Basilville" after the successful local merchant Basil Dhanens. Dhanens humbly declined the offer, leaving the name Hazel Dell unchanged .

Transport

Major Highways

Interstate 5 (I-5): This major west coast freeway is the most significant transportation artery for Hazel Dell. The community is bisected by I-5 and has direct access from exits 4 and 5 . It provides a direct route south to downtown Vancouver and Portland, Oregon, and north to other Washington cities like Seattle.
Interstate 205 (I-205): This interstate is located to the east, near the community of Walnut Grove, providing an alternative route around the Portland-Vancouver metro area .
Washington State Route 99 (NE Highway 99): This highway runs parallel and just east of I-5. It serves as the main commercial thoroughfare for Hazel Dell, lined with local businesses, retail, and restaurants .

Public Transportation

Bus Lines: Hazel Dell is served by local bus lines, offering public transportation options for residents to commute and travel within Clark County and connect to the greater Portland-Vancouver metro area .

Major Roads

NE Hazel Dell Avenue: Another important north-south road located just west of I-5, serving residential and some commercial areas .
NE 78th Street and NE 99th Street: These are key east-west corridors that connect the residential areas to the main business districts and highways .

Cycling and Walking

Burnt Bridge Creek Trail: This multi-use trail is a significant non-motorized transport and recreational route, allowing residents to walk or bike along the creek and connect to other parts of the area .

Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions

The culinary scene in and around Hazel Dell is a true reflection of the Pacific Northwest, emphasizing fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, seafood, and farm-to-table dining. While Hazel Dell itself is a residential area, its proximity to Vancouver, WA, and Portland, OR, puts a wealth of culinary experiences at your fingertips .

Signature Dishes and Local Specialties

Cedar-Plank Salmon This is a quintessential Pacific Northwest dish that you'll find in many restaurants throughout the Vancouver area. It features a fresh salmon fillet, often glazed with honey or maple, which is then slow-cooked on a smoldering cedar plank. This traditional method infuses the fish with a delicate, smoky flavor that perfectly complements the richness of the salmon .

Pacific Northwest Seafood Chowder A comforting and hearty soup, this chowder is a staple in waterfront eateries. Unlike its New England counterpart, the Northwest version is often creamy and loaded with a variety of local seafood, such as salmon, clams, and Dungeness crab, along with corn and potatoes .

Marionberry Cobbler A must-try dessert, especially if you're visiting during the summer months. The marionberry is a hybrid blackberry developed by Oregon State University and is a beloved local ingredient. You'll find it in pies, jams, and especially in cobblers, often served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream at local bakeries and cafes .

Farmers Markets and Artisanal Goods

For a true taste of the region's bounty, a visit to a farmers market is essential.

Hazel Dell Farmers Market: This community-driven market is a great place to browse a wide selection of locally grown produce, sample fresh fruits and vegetables, and discover handcrafted goods and delicious treats from friendly local vendors .
Velvet Acres Barn: Just a short distance from Hazel Dell, this farm stand offers fresh produce from July through September, and transforms into a charming pumpkin patch in October .
Vancouver Farmers Market: Located along the scenic Vancouver Waterfront, this larger seasonal market features an even wider array of local produce, prepared foods, and artisanal goods, making for a perfect weekend outing .

Museums

While Hazel Dell itself doesn't have a large museum, it serves as an excellent base for exploring the rich history and culture found in nearby Vancouver and the surrounding area.

Historical Museums

Clark County Historical Museum Located in downtown Vancouver, just a short drive from Hazel Dell, this museum is a must-visit for history enthusiasts. Housed in a beautifully preserved 1909 Carnegie Library building, the museum showcases the vibrant history and culture of Clark County through captivating exhibits and artifacts. Here, you can delve into the area's past, from its Native American heritage to the stories of early settlers and the region's development .

Fort Vancouver National Historic Site Another nearby gem is the Fort Vancouver National Historic Site. This reconstructed fur trading post offers a fascinating glimpse into the 19th-century Hudson's Bay Company and the U.S. Army. Visitors can explore the historic architecture, walk along the famous Officers Row, and learn about the area's significance as a major center of the Pacific Northwest's early history .

Local History and Landmarks

Cedar Creek Grist Mill A short drive from Hazel Dell, this iconic landmark dates back to 1876 and offers a unique, hands-on historical experience. The mill is still operational, and you can take a guided tour to learn about its rich history and witness the grinding of various grains using authentic equipment. It's a wonderful place to step back in time, and you can even take home some freshly ground flour or cornmeal as a souvenir .

Sport and Sports Legends

Hazel Dell's sports scene is closely tied to the broader Vancouver-Portland metro area, offering a mix of community sports, nearby professional action, and abundant opportunities for outdoor recreation.

Outdoor Recreation and Sports

The region around Hazel Dell is a paradise for outdoor sports enthusiasts. The area's parks and natural spaces are hubs for a variety of activities.

Cycling and Running: The paved Burnt Bridge Creek Trail is a highlight for cyclists and runners, leading from Vancouver Lake through the northern part of the city . The Salmon Creek Greenway offers another beautiful route through wetlands, forests, and meadows .
Water Sports: Vancouver Lake is a popular spot for kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, and windsurfing due to its calm waters . For easy access to the Columbia River, Broughton Beach offers a gradual entry and stunning views of Mount Hood .
Hiking: Several hiking trails are within a short drive. Lacamas Lake Trail provides a scenic loop with forested sections and lake views, while Beacon Rock Trail in Beacon Rock State Park offers a more challenging hike with iconic Columbia River Gorge views .

Local Sports and Community Leagues

The residential nature of Hazel Dell means that community sports are a big part of life.

Soccer: Seasonal leagues and pickup games are common at neighborhood fields and parks .
Baseball and Softball: Local parks often host leagues and tournaments, with strong youth programs, especially during the summer months .

Universities and Educational Institutions

Hazel Dell is situated within a region well-served by higher education, with several options for students and a variety of academic resources for the community.

Nearby Higher Education

While there are no major university campuses directly within Hazel Dell's borders, several institutions are easily accessible.

Washington State University Vancouver: Located just a few miles away, this is the most prominent four-year university in the immediate area. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs and serves as a key research and educational hub for Southwest Washington.
Clark College: A bit closer, in the heart of Vancouver, is Clark College. This public community college is one of the oldest in the state and provides a vast array of associate degree programs, professional-technical certifications, and community education courses.

Healthcare Facilities and Medical Services

Residents and visitors of Hazel Dell have access to comprehensive and high-quality healthcare services, with major medical centers located nearby in Vancouver.

Major Medical Centers

Legacy Salmon Creek Medical Center This is the primary full-service hospital serving the Hazel Dell area. Located just a short drive north in Vancouver's Salmon Creek neighborhood, it is a modern, comprehensive medical center offering a wide range of services, including emergency care, cardiovascular services, oncology, orthopedics, and a full-service maternity center. It's a key part of the Legacy Health system and is known for its patient-centered care and advanced medical technology .

PeaceHealth Southwest Medical Center Located in central Vancouver, this is another major medical center serving the region. As a full-service, non-profit hospital, it provides a comprehensive array of medical services, including specialized care in heart and vascular health, neurosciences, and primary care. It also operates the region's only Level II Trauma Center, ensuring critical care for severe injuries .

Additional Healthcare Access

Beyond these major hospitals, the Vancouver area is home to numerous clinics, urgent care centers, and specialized medical offices, ensuring that routine care and urgent medical needs are easily met for the Hazel Dell community .