Arlington on the Columbia River

Arlington lies on the Columbia River at the mouth of Alkali Canyon. An inlet of the river extends the waterfront into town. This waterfront location shapes how the town is laid out and provides the setting for several recreational activities.

Water Sports and Marina

You can go windsurfing on the Columbia River in Arlington. Earl Snell Memorial Park offers sheltered access for stand-up paddleboarding from a sandy beach. The options differ by activity and setting: windsurfing takes place on the river, while the park provides sheltered access for stand-up paddleboarding from the sandy beach. This is a practical distinction when planning a water sports getaway; you can weigh whether an activity on the Columbia River or access from the park better suits your plans.

The Port of Arlington operates a marina and a boat ramp. At the fuel dock at Arlington Marina, river users can get diesel as well as high-octane, ethanol-free gasoline. For boaters, these details add harbor infrastructure and fuel supplies to the picture of water-based activities.

Arlington’s Local History

Arlington was platted in 1882 under the name Alkali. In the early 1960s, much of the town was moved to higher ground during construction of the John Day Dam. The two dates mark different phases: the 1882 platting under the name Alkali, and the relocation in the early 1960s in connection with dam construction. This later change explains Arlington’s present-day form and shows how the town’s history developed beyond its original layout.

Roads and Recreation

For travel on Interstate 84, Arlington is just off the highway at Exit 137. The town is also the western end of the Blue Mountain Scenic Byway. South of Arlington, Highway 19 passes large areas with wind turbines. These road connections answer different questions when planning a route: Exit 137 helps with directions, the byway places Arlington at its western end, and Highway 19 is associated with the wind energy landscape south of town. This makes it possible to consider the approach, the byway endpoint, and the scenery along the southern route separately.

China Creek Golf Course, a nine-hole course, lies on the outskirts of Arlington. Unlike the water sports on the Columbia River, this is a clearly identified golf facility with a defined size and location. If golf is one of your travel interests, the course offers a specific point of reference when choosing where to stay.

The Arlington Jackpot Rodeo

The Arlington Saddle Club hosts the Arlington Jackpot Rodeo every year. The rodeo is a recurring event alongside the activities on the water and other recreational options. If you would like to plan your trip around it, check the specific event date before setting your travel dates.

For an overview of the wider area: Gilliam County.