Tucked away
in the emerald forests and river valleys of Southeast King County, a string of charming communities form a rustic tapestry bound together by a shared appreciation for the great outdoors and small-town living. From Cumberland and Bayne to Ravensdale, Selleck, Franklin, Enumclaw, and Black Diamond, each one of these communities has its own unique flavor and cherished traditions.
With the scenic Cascade foothills as a backdrop, life in these closely-knit enclaves moves at a refreshingly unhurried pace. If there is a main street you’ll find eclectic antique stores, cozy cafes, and family-owned shops that form the beating heart of the communities. On the surrounding working lands, farms, nurseries, and stables uphold a proud agricultural heritage.
But what truly sets this region apart is the ability to step straight from your front porch into a wonderland of natural splendor. Old growth forests with fern-carpeted trails, the Green River, sweeping vistas from lofty lookouts – it’s all right outside your front door. For outdoor recreation, unmatched opportunities for hiking, fishing, climbing, mountain biking, and more abound just minutes from any of these towns.
The magnificent Green River Gorge strikes like a mythical emerald vein through the core of these communities. This stunning river canyon forged by glaciers through layers of basalt lava rock serves as a wildly scenic central artery to which all locals share an essential bond. The Gorge’s scenic trails, swimming holes, and dramatic cliff sides have provided a recreational basecamp and source of respite for generations of Southeast King County residents. Protecting this irreplaceable natural wonderland is a rallying point for the region.
From the warm community spirit and volunteerism seen at local events to the fierce protectors of open spaces advocating at Town Hall meetings, the people of these tight-knit communities cherish their connection to one another and to the land. You’ll find a sense of pride and resilient self-reliance deeply woven into the cultural fabric here.
So whether you’re a born-and-raised local or just discovered these emerald-tinted Cascade foothill havens, one truth shines through: Life in Southeast King County offers a chance to slow down, tap into nature’s rejuvenating power, and be part of small communities with an unbreakable spirit and commitment to safeguarding their very special slice of the Pacific Northwest.
These communities are connected and what happens in one impacts all. It is our responsibility to future generations to uphold that lasting legacy.
