Washington State, known for its lush landscapes, majestic mountains, and bustling cities, is also home to numerous abandoned places that tell fascinating stories of the past. From forgotten military installations to decaying industrial sites, these locations offer a haunting glimpse into history. Here are 10 of the most captivating abandoned places in Washington for urban explorers and history enthusiasts alike.
1. Satsop Nuclear Power Plant (Elma, Washington)
The Satsop Nuclear Power Plant was never fully completed. Construction started in the 1970s but was halted due to budget overruns and a lack of demand for the energy it was meant to produce. Today, the massive cooling towers and unfinished facilities remain abandoned. The towering structures and industrial decay make it a popular site for photographers and explorers, though part of the site is now used for business purposes.
2. Fort Worden State Park (Port Townsend, Washington)
Fort Worden was established in the late 1800s as part of the coastal defense system. While part of the fort has been converted into a state park and conference center, many of the old bunkers, gun batteries, and tunnels remain abandoned and open for exploration. The eerie underground rooms and overgrown fortifications provide a fascinating look into Washington’s military history.
3. Northern State Hospital (Sedro-Woolley, Washington)
Opened in 1912, Northern State Hospital was a mental health facility that operated until the 1970s. The expansive campus once housed thousands of patients but was eventually abandoned after deinstitutionalization efforts. Today, many of the hospital's buildings are crumbling, with decaying rooms and overgrown grounds creating a haunting atmosphere. Some buildings have been repurposed, but much of the site remains off-limits.
4. Govan Schoolhouse (Govan, Washington)
The Govan Schoolhouse is located in the nearly abandoned town of Govan. Once a bustling agricultural community, Govan is now mostly a ghost town, with the crumbling wooden schoolhouse as its most famous relic. The schoolhouse’s peeling paint, broken windows, and empty interior make it a haunting but picturesque spot for explorers interested in rural history.
5. Melmont Ghost Town (Pierce County, Washington)
Melmont was a small mining town in the early 1900s, but it was abandoned when the coal mine shut down. Today, the remnants of the town, including the ruins of buildings and the old railroad grade, are hidden in the forest. The trail to Melmont is popular among hikers, but the quiet, decaying structures scattered along the path create an eerie experience of a town long forgotten.
6. Bodie Ghost Town (Okanogan County, Washington)
Bodie was a gold mining town in northeastern Washington that thrived during the early 20th century. When the gold ran out, the town was quickly abandoned. Today, a few old wooden buildings, including a saloon and homes, remain standing, though they are slowly deteriorating. Bodie is a remote and peaceful ghost town, offering visitors a glimpse into the rugged life of early miners.
7. Fort Flagler (Marrowstone Island, Washington)
Fort Flagler was another part of the coastal defense system built in the late 1800s. While much of the fort has been preserved as a state park, several bunkers and tunnels have been left abandoned. The concrete gun batteries and dark passageways make for an eerie yet fascinating exploration of Washington’s military past. The location also offers stunning views of Puget Sound.
8. Vance Creek Bridge (Mason County, Washington)
The Vance Creek Bridge is one of the tallest train trestles in the United States, standing at over 300 feet above the creek below. It was abandoned in the 1950s when the logging industry in the area declined. While technically off-limits to the public, the bridge has become popular with daring adventurers who seek out the breathtaking views and the thrill of walking across the decaying, towering structure.
9. Monroe Honor Farm (Monroe, Washington)
The Monroe Honor Farm was once a low-security prison farm where inmates worked the land. Abandoned in the 1990s, the decaying buildings, including barns, dormitories, and administrative offices, now sit overgrown with vegetation. The site’s isolated location and crumbling structures give it a ghostly, forgotten feel, making it a popular spot for those looking to explore a piece of Washington’s penal history.
10. Titan 1 Missile Silo (Royal City, Washington)
The Titan 1 Missile Silos were part of America’s Cold War defense system. Built in the 1960s, the silos housed intercontinental ballistic missiles but were decommissioned just a few years later. Today, the underground silos and facilities are abandoned, with rusting metal, dark tunnels, and flooded chambers offering a post-apocalyptic exploration experience. While access is restricted, the silos remain an intriguing relic of Cold War history.
Conclusion
Washington State is home to an array of abandoned places, each offering a unique look into the state’s industrial, military, and mining past. From ghost towns hidden in the mountains to decaying forts and towering train trestles, these locations provide a haunting yet fascinating experience for those looking to explore the forgotten corners of the Pacific Northwest. As always, it’s important to prioritize safety and respect property laws when visiting these sites, as many are dangerous or off-limits. For those who explore responsibly, Washington’s abandoned places offer an unforgettable journey through time.
